Mission Goes On

INTRODUCTION

This year’s World Mission Sunday is special because it marks 100 years since its institution by Pope Pius XI. In his message for the occasion, Pope Leo encourages Christians to be united in mission and “to keep our gaze fixed on the Lord so that He may truly be at the center of our lives and communities.”

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World Mission Sunday is a day set aside for the Catholic Church worldwide to renew its commitment to missionary endeavors. This year it is celebrated on October 18. It is indeed a special year as it marks 100 years (1926-2026) since it was instituted by Pope Pius XI. The centennial celebration carries the theme “One in Christ, united in mission.”  

We are reminded that two-thirds of the world’s population have not yet heard or accepted Christ as Lord and Savior. Catholics have a mandate to actively share their faith, to be witnesses of Christ’s love, and to spread the Gospel to all nations. 

Let us remember and pray for our missionaries who have left their homes, countries, and families for the sake of the Gospel. Many of them experience deprivation, loneliness, and even persecution. Only with grace can we understand why they make the sacrifice of leaving all that is dearest to them. They face many challenges when interacting with different cultures. May the Lord empower them to persevere in their mission. 

Let us pray that God will send more men and women to work in His vineyard. All of us are called to be missionaries, with a mission to tell the world of God’s love, and to continue and complete His work of salvation. 

How do we prepare for our mission and live out our calling? A good disciple must have deep communion with God and truly listen to Him. He must be present to others to know their needs, struggles, aspirations, and dreams. A good disciple possesses the spirit of joy and service. He leaves his comfort zone, goes the extra mile for others, and gives “the extra smile.” The basic formula for discipleship is prayer + work + joy. 

Pope Leo XIV, in his message for the centenary year of World Mission Day, says: “Divine grace teaches us to see our brothers and sisters through the eyes of faith. We must learn to recognize joyfully the good that the Spirit inspires in each person, to embrace diversity as a treasure, to bear one another’s burdens, and always seek the unity that comes from above.” 

When we do our work for the Lord, we carry out His mandate; but more than that, we are given the privilege to be a part of His life, His vision, and His mission. 

What does being one in Christ mean? Pope Leo XIV beautifully puts it: “To keep our gaze fixed on the Lord, so that He may truly be at the center of our lives and communities, the center of every word, action and interpersonal relationship, leading us to say with amazement: ‘It is no longer I who live, but it is Christ who lives in me’ (Galatians, 2:20).” 

 

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