In his heartfelt address, Pope Leo XIV reflects on his own missionary journey and the transformative power of faith and generosity. “When I served as a missionary priest and bishop in Peru, I saw first-hand how the faith, prayer and generosity shown on World Mission Sunday can transform entire communities,” shared Pope Leo XIV in his message.
This October, Catholic Mission and the broader Catholic community will come together to celebrate World Mission Month, guided by the theme “Missionaries of Hope Among All Peoples.”
Together, we have the power to create change and build a more just world for people everywhere. By supporting missionaries in their work, we can create life-changing opportunities for countless children, families, and communities worldwide. Join us in making a difference for our sisters and brothers.
The theme, inspired by Pope Francis' message for World Mission Sunday 2025 and carried forward by Pope Leo XIV, "Missionaries of Hope Among All Peoples," highlights hope and unity, emphasising how we can collectively turn our faith into action.
Read This Year's MessageIn the rural town of Mpika, Zambia, Sharon and her husband Victor grow maize to feed their four children. When extreme weather like drought hits, its farming families who feel it first—and hardest.
Learn moreZambia, officially the Republic of Zambia, is a landlocked country in Africa and is bordered by eight countries including Tanzania, Zimbabwe, and Angola. Its capital, Lusaka, serves as the political and economic hub of the nation. The country spans 752,617 square kilometres and is home to more than 21 million people.
Blessed with abundant natural wealth, Zambia is working toward overcoming challenges and unlocking its full potential. The country currently relies heavily on copper mining, which makes up a large share of its exports, however, fluctuations in global copper prices often cause economic problems. To grow its economy, Zambia is developing other sectors such as farming and tourism, but progress is slow due to poor infrastructure and lack of investment.
The need to improve infrastructure has led to a large public debt, leaving fewer resources available to finance essential services such as healthcare and education. This financial burden limits growth and development, making it harder for the population to access vital services.
Poverty is a constant challenge, with more than half the population living below the poverty line. Rural areas experience the greatest difficulties, with limited access to clean water, electricity, and sanitation, as well as barriers to education and healthcare.
Addressing climate change and deforestation is also a priority, as they impact agriculture, livelihoods, and access to essential services.
The resilience of the Zambian people and local communities is inspiring. Grassroots initiatives, such as small scale farming projects and renewable energy efforts, are helping to improve livelihoods and drive positive change. With continued innovation and global partnerships, Zambia is well positioned to build a stronger, more sustainable future.
On 8 May, the world was introduced to a new Pope with a deeply missionary heart. Watch a documentary, produced by the Vatican Media, which offers a compelling portrait of a pope whose leadership is grounded in presence, humility and hope.
