NZ bishops call for renewed support for the missions

In a letter dated September 3, the bishops noted that on Mission Sunday, October 18 this year, “we mark the 100th anniversary of Mission Sunday being established as a celebration for the whole Church. For this important occasion, Pope Leo XIV chose the theme, ‘Missionaries of Hope Among All Peoples’”.

“As we mark this 100th anniversary, we, the bishops of New Zealand, invite all those in leadership positions in our Catholic schools and parishes to renew your commitment to the Church’s mission,” the bishops wrote.

“We in New Zealand have been blessed with a rich missionary heritage. Our priests, religious and lay people have served in many corners of the world, often quietly and sacrificially. Their witness continues today through missionaries who bring education, healthcare, dignity and the love of Christ to communities in great need.”

The bishops noted that until recently, “mission boxes” were a permanent fixture in classrooms for children attending Catholic schools, supporting the Pope’s missionary endeavours. In parishes, a special collection is taken up each year for Mission Sunday.

“This missionary spirit is something we need to strengthen or, if it has been lost, to recover or rediscover.

“Your prayer, your generosity and your solidarity make a real difference. Every contribution – large or small – helps build churches, train catechists, support the formation of indigenous priests, support children’s education and their healthcare, and strengthen communities of faith around the world that rely on us.

“Even if someone is unable to support the Pope’s missionary efforts financially, they can still pray and motivate others to do the same, helping all people to embrace a missionary spirit just like St Thérèse of Lisieux, the patroness saint of the Mission, did within the confines of her monastery.”

The bishops encouraged schools and parishes to support the initiatives and promotions for Mission Sunday, saying that will help to embed a missionary outlook in every Catholic this Mission Sunday and beyond.

FULL STORY

MissioNZ letter 2026 (Kōtui: School and Policy Updates/NZCEO)