Reverend Joseph E. Kurtz, D.D. Bishop | Archdiocese of Louisville

The annual Mission Collection, which supports the Catholic Home Missions and international Pontifical Mission Societies, is set to take place on May 18-19. The announcement was made by Most Reverend Shelton J. Fabre, Archbishop of Louisville, in a letter addressed to the Sisters and Brothers in Christ.

These societies, including the Propagation of the Faith and the Catholic Near East Welfare Association, fund over 1,000 mission dioceses both within the United States and globally. The Mission Collection aids the Church's missionary work and offers continuous financial assistance for its pastoral and evangelizing programs across various regions including the United States, Africa, Asia, Pacific Islands, Middle East and remote areas of Latin America.

The funds raised through donations contribute towards the education and support of seminarians, religious novices and lay catechists. They also aid religious communities in providing education, health care and social services; cater to communication and transportation needs; provide disaster and emergency relief when required; and support the Church’s ministry to children.

The collection coincides with the Solemnity of Pentecost celebration on May 18-19. Archbishop Fabre emphasized that this event provides an opportunity for followers to share the Good News of the Gospel through their support of the Church's mission. He added that "the missionary mandate is always timely" urging everyone to be joyful witnesses to this Good News for those near or far.

In his closing remarks, Archbishop Fabre expressed gratitude for their generosity towards the Mission Collection.