The world’s largest missionary society is to re-launch as Missio in England & Wales in September 2009. Monsignor John Dale, National Director of Missio in England & Wales, commented, “As a symbol of unity in faith and mission, several of the European offices have chosen to share a single name.
Pontifical Mission Society to Undergo Relaunch
The world’s largest missionary society is to re-launch as Missio in England & Wales in September 2009.
Monsignor John Dale, National Director of Missio in England & Wales, commented, “As a symbol of unity in faith and mission, several of the European offices have chosen to share a single name – Missio – a word that is simple and easily recognisable in many languages. Missio, from the Latin ‘sending out’, also expresses commitment to the God-given mission of the Church.”
“This change of name has been approved and welcomed by the Bishops of England and Wales and the National Council of Pontifical Mission Societies Diocesan Directors. Its logo shows the Cross at the centre of its service to the Gospel. The new motto, ‘Sharing faith, giving life’, expresses Missio’s vital commitment to serving the Church, especially where the Church is young or poor.”
Pope Benedict XVI drew attention to the importance of mission and the work of Missio in his message for World Mission Sunday last year. He expressed his appreciation of its work, saying “I deeply appreciate the contribution of the Pontifical Mission Societies to the Church’s evangelising work. I am grateful for the support they offer to all the communities, especially the young ones. Pontifical Mission Societies play a key role in nurturing a real spirit of communion, of people and financial help, between the different parts of the Mystical Body of Christ.”
There will be a mass celebrated by Archbishop Vincent Nichols to mark the re-launch in Westminster Cathedral on 9 September.
Tags: Christianity