The Vatican has released a landmark video message from Pope Leo XIV ahead of World Mission Sunday, calling on Catholics around the world to renew their missionary commitment during this special time of the Jubilee of Hope.
In his heartfelt address, Pope Leo XIV reflects on his own missionary journey and the transformative power of faith and generosity.
‘When I served as a missionary priest and bishop in Peru, I saw first-hand how the faith, prayer and generosity shown on World Mission Sunday can transform entire communities,’ shared Pope Leo XIV in his message, officially released by Vatican News on 13 October.
Through prayer, generosity and shared commitment, we can bring tangible hope to communities in need.
Celebrated annually in every Catholic parish around the world, World Mission Sunday is the moment when the global Church comes together in prayer and solidarity to support mission work in developing communities. In Australia, Catholic Mission leads this celebration as the local arm of the Pontifical Mission Societies, the Pope’s mission agency, supporting vital projects that bring hope and change to the people most in need.
‘Pope Leo XIV’s message beautifully reminds us that mission is not only about sending but about walking together in faith,’ said Peter Gates, deputy national director of Catholic Mission. ‘Through prayer, generosity and shared commitment, we can bring tangible hope to communities in need.’
This message is a milestone for the missionary Church. Since World Mission Sunday was established in 1926 by Pope Pius XI, papal messages have traditionally been written letters. Now, by choosing to share his message through video, Pope Leo XIV brings a renewed sense of closeness and accessibility, embodying the call to reach out to all.
Thank you for everything you will do to help me help missionaries everywhere.
Translated into five languages, the video has already touched hearts around the world as it has been shared broadly, spreading a message of unity and hope.
‘Thank you for everything you will do to help me help missionaries everywhere,’ concluded Pope Leo XIV.
As the global Church prepares to celebrate World Mission Sunday this weekend, we invite everyone to take part in this moment of faith and solidarity. Together, as missionaries of hope among all peoples, let us share the light of Christ and bring hope to our brothers and sisters everywhere.
Parishes are invited to help us share this message in parish bulletins, newsletter, and social media channels as a way to inspire many more people to respond to the Holy Father’s call. The full video message from Pope Leo XIV is available on the Vatican News YouTube channel and can be accessed via www.catholicmission.org.au/worldmissionmonth.
Banner image: Screenshot of Pope Leo XIV in his video message for World Mission Sunday 2025. (Photo courtesy of Catholic Mission.)