On Mission Sunday (22nd October 2017), the Holy Father invites all Catholics to contribute to a special collection.  Every person in every parish in every country where the Church is present will be celebrating together and sharing what they have, no matter how little.  It is the one Sunday in the year when the Mass is celebrated exclusively for missionary activity.  Donations are collected at these worldwide Masses and they go to support churches, hospitals, schools and vocations in countries where the Church is new, young or poor.  It is also the one Sunday in the year when your generosity goes directly to help mission parishes overseas and reach out with Jesus’ message of hope and love.  World Missions Ireland is the Holy Father’s official charity for overseas mission.  It is responsible for coordinating Mission Sunday in Ireland and, through local bishops, churches, and missionary congregations around the world, ensures that resources are distributed equitable and justly on the basis of need.  In offering our prayers, we join with missionaries everywhere in communion and compassion to support them in spreading the Good News, and by giving a donation we respond to Christ’s call to feed the hungry and clothe the naked so we ask you to please give what you can.  Thank you.