World Mission Sunday: An expression of who we are

"I have served as the Director of the Pontifical Mission Societies for the Archdiocese of St. John’s since 2014. Hearing reports at our annual conferences and reading in Missions Today about how the World Mission Sunday collection is used in various countries is truly heartwarming. Having spent several years serving in our mission in Peru, I can picture the joy and gratitude of communities when they receive support to meet their needs: repairing a church roof, purchasing motorcycles for catechists, building gathering spaces for catechetical programs, establishing medical clinics, or expanding schools. In many places, the people are eager to do the labour themselves, but they simply lack the resources needed to purchase the necessary materials. I find that WMS is a meaningful opportunity to remind parishioners of the good their donations allow the PMS to do. Above all, however, I remind them that we are all missionary disciples and encourage them to keep the missions in their prayers. At the Basilica Cathedral Parish, we began the Living Rosary several years ago, inspired by Pauline Marie Jaricot, foundress of the Pontifical Society for the Propagation of the Faith. This year, as we celebrate the 100th anniversary of WMS, I hope to encourage other parishes throughout the Archdiocese to introduce the Living Rosary as well. Inviting parishioners to pray just one designated mystery of the Rosary is a simple and accessible way for everyone to participate. It keeps the missions close to our hearts.