World Mission Sunday, which will celebrate its 82nd anniversary in 2008, affords the entire Church a focused opportunity to reflect on those who have not heard the Gospel — and to respond to Christ’s call to be missionary.
On that day, all parishes in every diocese of the world celebrate together our common vocation to preach and proclaim Christ throughout the world.
Not just a collection
This celebration is not just a “collection day” on which we solicit support for missionaries throughout the world. It represents an attitude of responsibility for all of us to be missionaries through our prayers, good works, and financial contributions.
Much of the support needed around the world is derived from funds raised on World Mission Sunday through the Pontifical Societies of the Propagation of the Faith, St. Peter the Apostle, and the Holy Childhood Association as well as the Catholic Near East Welfare Association.
A history of support
In the early part of the last century, America too was considered “mission territory.” And yet while we were still depending on the generosity of European Catholics, the young Church in the U.S. was contributing to the worldwide missionary work. The very first offering to the Propagation of the Faith — $6 — was in 1833.
Today, Catholics in this country provide some one-third of the help that supports more than 1,000 mission dioceses.
Mission independence for 100 years
This year, 2008, the Church in the U.S. marks the 100th anniversary of our “mission independence.” In 1908, it was decided that we no longer needed financial help for our pastoral and evangelizing needs.
As we mark this anniversary, we celebrate our rich missionary history and reflect with gratitude on the debt we owe to the missionaries who journeyed here and to the Catholics who supported their efforts through the Pontifical Mission Societies.
For more on World Mission Sunday, including a message from Pope Benedict XVI, visit http://www.onefamilyinmission.org/
Msgr. Delbert Schmelzer is director of the Propagation of the Faith for the Diocese of Madison. Contributions to the Propagation of the Faith may be made in parishes or sent to: P.O. Box 44983, Madison, WI 53744-4983.