“"As the Father has sent me, so I send you."”

3rd Missionary Day

The universal mission involves everyone, everything, and always. The Gospel is not an exclusive possession of those who have received it, but a gift to be shared, good news to be communicated. And this gift-commitment is entrusted not only to some people, but to all the baptized, who are "a chosen race... a holy nation, a people for God's own possession" (1 Pd 2, 9), so that he may proclaim his marvelous works.

All their activities are also involved. Attention and cooperation in the evangelizing work of the Church in the world cannot be limited to a few particular moments or occasions, nor should they be considered as just one of many pastoral activities: the missionary dimension of the Church is essential and, therefore, must always be present. It is important that both each baptized person and ecclesial communities take an interest in the mission not sporadically and irregularly, but constantly, as a way of Christian life.

Global evangelization

Evangelization is a complex process and includes several elements. Among these, particular attention from missionary animation has always been given to solidarity… This involves supporting institutions necessary to establish and consolidate the Church through catechists, seminaries, and priests; and also offering one's own contribution to improving the living conditions of people in countries where poverty, malnutrition (especially among children), disease, lack of medical services, and educational resources are most severe…

Thus, through co-responsible participation in the Church's mission, Christians become builders of the communion, peace, and solidarity that Christ granted us, and collaborate in the realization of God's plan of salvation for all humanity. The challenges it faces call Christians to walk together with others, and mission is an integral part of this journey with everyone.

(Pope Benedict XVI, message for the year 2011)