Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,
As we gather in communion for World Mission Sunday on Oct. 20, I extend to you a heartfelt invitation from Pope Francis, inspired by the Gospel: “Go and invite everyone to the banquet (cf. Matthew 22:9).” This call to mission resonates deeply with our faith’s core, urging us to share God’s love with the world.
More than 100 years ago, the United States was considered mission territory. The Catholic community here was nurtured and supported through the generosity of the worldwide Church that contributed to the World Mission Sunday collection. It is our turn to extend that same generosity to our brothers and sisters in more than 1,150 mission territories across Asia, Africa, Latin America, the Pacific Islands and the Middle East.
I invite you to join me for the 5:15 p.m. Mass at St. Joseph Cathedral on Sunday, Oct. 20. During the “Year of Mission” of the National Eucharistic Revival, it is good for us to gather for the Eucharist, to engage actively in the missionary work of the Church around the world, and to unite ourselves in prayer and solidarity with the universal Church.
Even if you cannot attend the Mass, I invite you to join me in prayer for the success of the Church’s missionary activities and for the missionaries themselves, who dedicate their lives to spreading the Gospel. Your generosity is a powerful witness to the love and compassion at the heart of our faith.
Together, let us rejoice in the opportunity to share God’s love with the world, inviting everyone to the banquet of the Lord.
Grateful for your continuing generosity and support, I remain,
Sincerely yours in Christ,
Most Rev. Earl K. Fernandes
Bishop of Columbus