World Mission Sunday marks centenary in 2026

The Catholic Church is preparing to observe the centenary of World Mission Sunday, which will take place on October 18, 2026. The initiative was established by Pope Pius XI in 1926 to unite the Church in prayer and financial support for missionary territories.

In a video message, Pope Leo XIV honored the legacy of his predecessor and invited the faithful to commit to evangelization. He noted that the mission's goals have had a profound impact on his own life, recalling how missionary prayers prepared his heart for his vocation as an Augustinian missionary. He also highlighted the support received during his time in Peru.

In the Czech Republic, the Pontifical Mission Societies reported that donations from the previous year exceeded 18 million CZK. These funds supported various dioceses in countries including Uganda, Zimbabwe, Malawi, Zambia, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Papua New Guinea, and Paraguay, aiding the spread of faith and supporting local needs.