As Catholics in Hong Kong and around the world celebrate World Mission Sunday on October 20, the Church unites once again in prayer, solidarity, and support for the mission entrusted to it by Christ. This year’s theme, inspired by the Gospel according to Matthew, 22:9—”Go and Invite Everyone to the Banquet”—is a timely reminder of the universal call to evangelisation. The mission is not only to be lived out within the Church but also extends beyond its walls, reaching all corners of the earth.
The theme, chosen by Pope Francis, reflects the inclusive and urgent nature of the Christian mission. The parable of the wedding banquet in Matthew’s gospel depicts God’s Kingdom as a feast where all are invited. This year, we are reminded that it is not enough to simply rejoice in our own salvation; we are called to “go out” and bring others to the table, inviting everyone to experience God’s love, regardless of who they are or where they come from.
World Mission Sunday 2024 emphasises two vital aspects: going out into the world and inviting everyone. Mission work has always involved a spirit of reaching out, of not being complacent within one’s community but extending Christ’s invitation to the unfamiliar, the unreached, and those who have not yet encountered the gospel. From the impacts of migration to the increasing secularisation of societies, it is evident that now, more than ever, the Church is called to be a witness of hope and love.
The other essential element of this mission is the universal invitation. In God’s Kingdom, no one is excluded from his grace and mercy. World Mission Sunday allows us to reflect on the beauty of God’s all-encompassing love, which transcends borders, languages, and cultures.
Here in Hong Kong, Mission Sunday is celebrated with a special dimension through a series of activities organised by various deaneries across the city. These events embody the theme of evangelisation and highlight the unity and diversity of the Catholic Church in this region. From musical performances and spiritual dramas to beach clean-ups and evangelisation carnivals, a palpable spirit of joy and togetherness will mark this year’s celebration.
One of the key highlights of the events in Hong Kong is the upcoming musical “The Hope of Life,” set to take place at Caritas Hall on Caine Road. This production, under the direction of James Mak, features the participation of numerous volunteers from the eight parishes of the Hong Kong East Deanery. The production seeks to bridge the gap between believers and non-believers, using gospel themes and daily life scenarios.
From a Marian procession in Cheung Chau to faith renewal carnivals in Ap Lei Chau and Tseung Kwan O, these activities reflect the Church’s commitment to bringing the joy of the gospel to every corner of the city. The New Territories, in particular, will host a concert featuring parish and school performances at St. Benedict’s Church in Shatin, uniting the English-speaking communities with the wider Catholic population, reflecting the diversity and inclusiveness of the Church’s mission.
On this year’s Mission Sunday, let us embrace the challenge to ‘go out and invite everyone’ to experience God’s love, mercy, and joy. We can build a world that reflects the beauty of God’s Kingdom, where all are welcome, and no one is left behind. jose, CMF.
