Mission and Aid · October 10, 2026
Also published in Português (Brasil)
Pope Leo XIV marks the centenary of World Mission Sunday with a video message
Pope Leo XIV released a video message on October 7, 2026, to commemorate the 100th anniversary of World Mission Sunday. The 100th observance of the day is scheduled for October 18, 2026. The Pope addressed the faithful as brothers and sisters in Christ, expressing gratitude to God for the abundant fruit the day has borne for the Church since its establishment.
Pope Pius XI established World Mission Sunday a century ago. He intended for the day to deepen the understanding of the greatness of the missionary mandate in every diocese and parish. He also hoped it would inspire fervent prayer for missionary activity, promote missionary vocations, and support the activities of the Pontifical Missionary Works.
The current Pope stated that the implementation of these goals has borne fruit in his own life. He recalled that prayers offered to the Lord of the harvest prepared his heart to hear the call of Jesus to follow him as a missionary of the Augustinian Order. He noted that the prayers and donations of the faithful have encouraged and supported his missionary work in Peru and the countless missionary efforts of others around the world. He expressed heartfelt thanks to all who have supported World Mission Sunday over the years.
The theme for the centenary year is "One in Christ, One in Mission." This theme invites the Church to reflect on the fundamental challenge of fostering unity in Christ while fulfilling the responsibility to spread the Gospel to all peoples. Each person becomes a member of the body of Christ through baptism and assumes a unique role in serving the saving work of Jesus. The Lord invites all people to cooperate as one family, with the help of the Holy Spirit, to lead everyone everywhere into communion of faith in Christ.
The Pope reiterated a special appeal from his World Mission Sunday message dated January 25, 2026. He urged the faithful to commit to contributing to the great work of evangelization according to their vocation and gifts. He emphasized that evangelization is always a work of love. He stated that the prayers and concrete support of the faithful are a great help in bringing the Gospel of God's love to all people, especially the poorest and those in distress.
In closing, the Pope thanked the faithful for everything they do to carry on the legacy of World Mission Sunday and to generously support the Church's evangelization activities worldwide. He concluded by asking for the blessing of Almighty God, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, to rest upon the faithful forever.