Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,
Every year we remember in a special way our Baptismal call to mission as we celebrate World Mission Sunday, this year on weekend of 21-22nd October. I invite you to join me on Saturday, October 21st at the 5pm Mass at St. Joseph Cathedral. This Mass will be live-streamed for those who are unable to attend in person. I am looking forward to this diocesan Eucharistic celebration which unites and connects all Catholics of the world into one community of faith.
We will gather at the Eucharist, as will Catholics throughout the world, in a spirit of love for Evangelization so that, through our prayers and concrete acts of solidarity, the gift of faith may be shared with all. Pope Francis emphasizes on “Hearts on fire, feet on the move” (Luke, 24:13-35) which is the theme of this year on mission Sunday. Let us generously and joyfully carry out the mission of the Church. May we permit Jesus to make our hearts burn with love for Him who is the savior of all mankind.
Your gifts sustain priests, religious and lay pastoral leaders in more than 1,100 mission dioceses in Asia, Africa, the Pacific Islands, and parts of Latin America and Europe as they proclaim the Gospel, build the Church, and serve the poor. Let us unite with Catholics across the globe to pray and offer sacrifices and gifts for the missionary work of the Church.
I am most grateful to you for your continuing generosity and support and I remain,
Sincerely yours in Christ,
Most Reverend Earl K. Fernandes
Bishop of Columbus
