World Mission Sunday is the Holy Father’s annual appeal for spiritual and financial support so that the life-giving work of overseas mission and missionaries can continue. It always falls on the second last Sunday in October, meaning this year it will be celebrated over the weekend of Sunday 19thOctober.

The theme for this year’s celebration of Mission Sunday is: “Missionaries of Hope Among All Peoples”.

I would be grateful if you could kindly help publicise the upcoming World Mission Sunday Mass, taking place this Sunday, 19 October (11.00–11.45am), and broadcast on RTÉ One, RTÉ Radio 1 Extra, and the RTÉ Player.

This special Mass will include a video message from Pope Leo XIV, in which the Holy Father draws on his experience as a former missionary priest and bishop to offer a heartfelt appeal to support the Church’s missionary work.

The Mass will be celebrated by Father Michael Kelly, Director of Missio Ireland, with the participation of representatives from Misean Cara, Missio Ireland, and AMRI.  Music will be led by Ian Callanan.

Thanking you in advance,

Crysta Gunn

Catholic Communications Office Irish Catholic Bishops’ Conference

Why is World Mission Sunday important?

All offerings and donations made for World Mission Sunday become part of the Holy Father’s Universal Solidarity Fund. This fund serves as a lifeline for struggling missionaries and the communities they serve across Africa, Asia, and Latin America, where over 1,100 mission dioceses are located. As these dioceses form and grow, so do their needs. On top of this, mission dioceses are often in remote areas devastated by war and natural disasters, or where suppressed communities are just opening up to the life-saving message of Jesus Christ.

This is why World Mission Sunday is so important. It offers young dioceses the financial and spiritual assistance they need to help their men, women, and children to survive and thrive.

Watch a film about Sr Regina and the community she serves here: World Mission Sunday 2025 – Missio

Every Catholic community around the world will be united on World Mission Sunday, sending a powerful message of faith, hope, and love. The funds raised support essential Church projects which are open to all: building chapels, schools, clinics, and safe places for children to learn.