World Mission Day Centenary Webinar Draws 247 Participants from Seven Countries

India, October 18, 2026: A webinar marking the centenary of World Mission Day brought together 247 participants from seven countries to explore Christian unity and collaboration in evangelisation under the theme, “One in Christ, United in Mission”.

The 90-minute international programme was organised jointly by the Pontifical Mission Organizations (PMO) India, the Pontifical Academy of Theology – Tamil Theological Cenacle, and the Tamil Nadu Bishops’ Council (TNBC) Commission for Proclamation and Charismatic Renewal. It brought together bishops, priests, religious, theologians, pastoral workers and lay faithful to reflect on the biblical and theological foundations of missionary communion.

Bishop Ambrose Pitchaimuthu of Vellore, director of PMO India, delivered the presidential address, tracing the significance of World Mission Day, instituted by Pope Pius XI in 1926. He described the annual observance as an expression of prayer, missionary commitment and solidarity among local Churches.

He also outlined the role of the four Pontifical Mission Societies in supporting evangelisation, fostering missionary awareness among children, promoting the formation of local clergy and religious, and nurturing missionary spirituality. Emphasising the responsibility of all the baptised, he called attention to the needs of communities facing pastoral, economic and missionary challenges.

In the first session, Prof. Dr. Yesu Karunanidhi, Interlocutore Referente of the Pontifical Academy of Theology, examined the theme “One in Christ”. Drawing on John 17, Pauline theology and the Synod on Synodality, he highlighted unity, communion and shared responsibility as essential foundations for missionary collaboration.

Fr. M. Irudaya Raj, regional secretary of the TNBC Commission for Proclamation and Charismatic Renewal, addressed the theme “United in Mission”. He discussed the challenges and opportunities for evangelisation in India and Asia, stressing the need for pastoral cooperation, missionary formation, dialogue and the active involvement of clergy, religious and lay faithful. He also emphasised proclaiming the Gospel through both words and witness.

The webinar highlighted the potential of digital platforms to facilitate international theological exchange and missionary formation, while strengthening cooperation among missionary organisations, theological institutions and pastoral commissions.

The organisers expressed hope that the centenary initiative would inspire further theological dialogue, pastoral collaboration and missionary renewal, reaffirming that communion with Christ must find expression in the Church’s shared commitment to mission.

By Catholic Connect Reporter