World Mission Sunday celebrates its centenary

The Catholic Church is celebrating the centenary of World Mission Sunday, an initiative established by Pope Pius XI in 1926. This milestone is marked by a global call to prayer and material support for missionary work across various continents.

In his message for the 2026 centenary, Pope Leo XIV has chosen the theme ‘One in Christ, united in mission.’ The Pope emphasizes that true missionary work is rooted in spiritual unity and a deep connection to the Trinity, urging the faithful to overcome polarization and work together to spread the Gospel. He highlights that evangelization is a shared responsibility for all baptized Catholics, requiring both spiritual commitment and practical generosity.

Various regions are observing the occasion with specific activities. In Nigeria, clerics have urged the faithful to prioritize mission as the essence of faith. In Mexico, collections support projects in Africa, Asia, and Europe, including schools and healthcare. In Paraguay, local parishes are holding masses and distributing bread to symbolize community and providence. In Bosnia and Herzegovina, believers are contributing to support the most vulnerable in the poorest parts of the world.