After two years of disruption, it has been great to reinstate our regular parish visits.

These Red Box Appeals provide an opportunity to thank you, our supporters, and to remind you of the difference your prayers and donations make. They also often bring to light wonderful stories of beloved Red Boxes handed down through generations and unearth moving links with late Mill Hill Missionaries.

Memories of a beloved brother and Missionary

Such was the case after a recent Red Box Appeal at Immaculate Conception Church, Rotherham. Parishioner and Missio supporter Bill Hurley brought along a Bible owned by his late brother, Fr Michael Hurley MHM. Bill explained how this precious Bible had travelled with his brother on many of his missionary placements, notably in Borneo and Africa. It was also the Bible from which Fr Hurley planned many of the retreats he delivered to Priests and Religious as part of his ministry.

A joyful reunion

Bill shared his memories of Fr Hurley with some fellow parishioners, including the parish’s Missio volunteer, Jo, and our visiting Appealer, Claire, as they gathered for refreshments after Mass.

This was one of the first parish socials since the pandemic, and Jo was delighted that the Red Box Appeal had inspired the long-awaited gathering. She had even hobbled in on a fractured leg and put together some Missio display boards; such is the dedication of our wonderful volunteers!

Jo shared:

‘The parish was very grateful to be able to welcome Claire at our Masses this weekend and everyone was really interested to hear more about the history and valuable work of Missio spreading both God’s love and practical support throughout the world. It was particularly enlightening to hear first-hand the difference Missio can make to people’s lives’.

Get involved with Missio

• We love getting out and about and connecting with our wonderful supporters! If you haven’t had a Red Box visit in your parish for a while, please visit our appeals page or email us on redbox@missio.org.uk
• Your Red Box donations help and sustain missionaries around the world. Please consider a donation today>>
• Our Volunteers are amazing! If you’re inspired to help Missio spread the word about global mission, find the ways to get involved here. NB: While we are in awe of Jo’s dedication and commitment, hobbling on fractured legs is absolutely not expected or required! We have lots of ways you can volunteer with us, including micro-volunteering from your phone and the comfort of your armchair.