As World Mission Sunday approaches on 18 October 2026, Catholics across Australia are invited to begin their celebrations by joining the universal Church in praying the mission rosary.
Celebrated on 18 October this year, World Mission Sunday will mark 100 years since its establishment by Pope Pius XI in 1926.
The global Mission Rosary will be broadcast Saturday 17 October, bringing Catholics together across continents for a special moment of prayer and unity.
Centred on Pope Leo XIV’s theme, ‘One in Christ, united in mission’, the livestream is a reminder that mission begins in prayer and that, wherever we are, we belong to one universal Church.
“The Missionary Rosary offers an extraordinary opportunity to begin the centenary celebrations together, united in prayer across countries, cultures and time zones. Joining this broadcast from the Vatican is a visible expression of our belonging to one universal Church, bringing the theme ‘One in Christ, united in mission’ to life,” said Catholic Mission Director, Peter Gates.
Led by Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle, Pro-Prefect of the Dicastery for Evangelisation, the Rosary will be broadcast live from Rome at 3 pm local time.
Although the broadcast falls late in the evening for Australians (12 am AEDT), it offers a meaningful opportunity to unite with Catholics around the world as World Mission Sunday begins.
This shared moment of prayer will lead into Mass celebrations in parishes and communities worldwide, bringing the centenary to life through faith, solidarity and generosity.
In Australia, parishes are invited to stand alongside communities in Malawi, the focus of Catholic Mission’s 2026 World Mission Month appeal.
Through prayer and generous donations, Australians can support families as they rebuild their lives and create opportunities for their children.
The Holy Father released a personal video message for the occasion, recalling how the annual celebration helped shape his missionary vocation.
In his message, the Holy Father calls on Catholics to support the Church’s mission through prayer and practical help.
Reflecting on this year’s theme, ‘One in Christ, united in mission’, the Holy Father says that through Baptism all the faithful become one Body in Christ. Jesus, he says, calls them to work as one family to bring everyone into a communion of faith.
He then renewed the appeal from his Message for World Mission Sunday, inviting all to commit to contributing to the great mission of evangelisation.
“Which is always a work of love — according to our own vocation and the gifts we have received,” Pope Leo XIV said.
“Your prayers and practical support, particularly on World Mission Sunday, will be a great help in bringing the Gospel of God’s love to everyone, especially the poorest and those most in need,” he said.
For the latest livestream details, link and information about World Mission Sunday, visit www.catholicmission.org.au/worldmissionmonth