October 18, 2026

This year marks the 100th anniversary of World Mission Sunday, a special day when Catholics around the world unite in prayer, solidarity, and support for the Church's missionary work. Together, we help bring the hope of the Gospel to communities where the Church is young, growing, and often facing great challenges. 

The 2026 theme,"One in Christ, United in Mission," reminds us that every baptized person shares in the Church's missionary calling. Through our prayers, sacrifices, and generosity, we support priests, religious sisters, catechists, seminarians, and faith communities serving in some of the world's most remote and underserved regions. 

This year's observance also highlights the missionary legacy of Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen, who served as National Director of the Pontifical Mission Societies in the United States from 1950 to 1966 and helped make World Mission Sunday a defining moment in the life of the Church. 

As members of the Diocese of Belleville, we are united with Catholics across the globe in supporting the Church's mission to proclaim Christ and care for those in need. Whether through prayer, participation in the World Mission Sunday collection, or learning more about the work of missionaries, each of us can play a part in sharing the Gospel with the world.

Learn More About World Mission Sunday 2026:
https://pontificalmissions.org/wms-2026