This Sunday is World Mission Sunday. The theme for this Sunday, as provided by the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, is “Missionaries of Hope Among All Peoples.” The bishops stated, “This theme emphasizes the Church’s mission to be a messenger of hope, calling all baptized individuals to be builders of hope in a world filled with uncertainty and despair.”
Bishop James Checchio of New Jersey reflected on the significance of this day, and on the missionary focus of Our Holy Father Pope Leo. He stated, “With the election of Pope Leo XIV as our Pope this past Spring, a priest who served as a missionary has become our chief shepherd! Pope Leo served in the missions both as a priest and bishop. I am not sure we have ever had a missionary elected pope in the history of the Church. That makes this October 19, 2025, a very special day as we celebrate World Mission Sunday.”
Bishop Checchio further noted, “We are called and instructed by Jesus to proclaim the Gospel to all nations. This day becomes our opportunity, united with Catholics around the world, to unite in prayer and solidarity to support the missionary work of the Church, ultimately overseen by our missionary Pope.”
As Catholics, we are challenged to see the face of Christ in others and to reach out to those in need. As previously noted, we can spread Christian awareness through our involvement with the Saint Vincent DePaul Society, Catholic Charities, and other organizations which encourage Christian outreach. In addition, we can spread the Gospel message by encouraging our civil leaders to enact laws that promote Catholic social teaching, especially in areas concerning the unborn, marriage and the family.
The following “Prayer for World Mission Sunday” from the media outlet, “Prayerist” reflects the spirit of this day:
Almighty God, you sent your Son Jesus Christ to
reconcile the world to yourself.
We praise and bless you for those whom you have sent
in the power of the spirit to preach the Gospel to all nations.
We thank you that in all parts of the earth
a community of love has been gathered together by their prayers and labors,
and that in every place your servants call upon your Name;
for the kingdom and the power and the glory are yours forever.
Amen.
As we reflect on this prayer, and as we celebrate World Mission Sunday, we are challenged to be witnesses to Christ as we strive to truly embrace the missionary spirit of our precious faith.