Pope Leo XIV releases video message

Pope Leo XIV shared a video message on October 7 reflecting on World Mission Sunday, which falls on October 18. In the message, which Vatican News posted to YouTube, the pope said the purpose of the observance has produced results in his own life.

The pope encouraged the Church to pursue its missionary work with zeal and joy in the Holy Spirit. This year's theme, announced by the pope in January, is "One in Christ, united in mission."

World Mission Sunday was established by Pope Pius XI in 1926 and became a universal observance in 1927. The day serves as a period for prayer and missionary promotion. It also includes a collection that provides the main financial support for the Pontifical Mission Societies. This network includes the Society for the Propagation of the Faith, the Missionary Childhood Association, the Society of St. Peter the Apostle, and the Pontifical Missionary Union.