On Saturday 11 March, we got to say a huge ‘thank you’ to supporters of Missio and the Mill Hill Missionaries, at a special Diocesan Mass at St Chad’s Cathedral.
St Chad’s Cathedral was a hive of activity as supporters of the Red Box travelled from across the Archdiocese to celebrate the Holy Mass for mission. We were especially delighted to include children from St Bernadette’s Catholic Primary School (pictured), who have been learning about, and fundraising for, Missio.
A lot to be thankful for
Over the last 10 years the Archdiocese has raised over £3.8m for Missio – an incredible amount for World Mission. And every penny helps us support the Church in greatest need; where it is growing and where it is suffering.
The support for Missio across the Archdiocese is strong with thousands of Red Boxes in homes, parishes and schools. There are also 210 Missio volunteers and secretaries in place.
Work is now underway to raise the charity’s profile even further in the Archdiocese, with the aim of having a Missio secretary in every parish. What incredible work! We are so grateful.
A special day; a call to mission
Fr Michael Glover, Parish Priest at St Teresa of the Child Jesus in Trent Vale, Stoke-on-Trent, was appointed the Diocesan Director of Missio last year. He spoke after Saturday’s Mass, along with Dave Wheat, Missio’s Regional Community Fundraiser (South), about forming a Diocesan Mission Team. Its aim is to support Missio volunteers, helping Missio to develop its presence in the Archdiocese and encouraging others to be Missionary Disciples. Fr Michael said:
“This celebration was a wonderful opportunity to say thank you to all those people for their support over the years, and to highlight the need to pray for the Mission of the Church across the world. Our support for Missio remains steadfast and I would like even more people to be part of its future work in the Archdiocese!’
Saturday’s Mass was celebrated by Archbishop Bernard Longley, and Fr Anthony Chantry – National Director of Missio in England and Wales – was the preacher.
Missio’s National Director for England and Wales, Fr Anthony Chantry spoke about his recent visit to Pakistan, visiting Missio projects, and the challenging situations Mill Hill Missionaries are facing in their country. Fr Anthony shared how he was struck by how the people he met bore witness to the need for reconciliation and the love of God. His inspiring homily called all present to remember that we are all missionaries, and have the calling to share the good news of the Gospel through our actions.
Fr Gerry Hastie from the Mill Hill General Council also attended along with other representatives from Missio.
A huge ‘thank you’ to all our supporters across the Archdiocese, and everyone who took part and made this such a special day!
Join our missionary family!
All our supporters, young and old, are part of our global family, helping us to reach our sisters and brothers in need wherever the Church is struggling, young, or poor. If you would like to join us, through giving, praying, fundraising or volunteering, you can follow the links below to find out more.
- Find out about volunteering here>>
- Get our fundraising tips here>>
- Find all the ways to pray with Missio here>>
- Donate online to Missio here>>
Throughout the year, Missio holds special Mission Masses throughout the dioceses. It’s a special time to share news of our mission around the world, and thank all those amazing people who do so much for Missio here at home. All are welcome. Find your diocesan Mass here>>