As World Mission Day approaches its centenary, diocesan directors and partners of the Pontifical Mission Societies (PMS) in French-speaking Canada met from June 15 to 18, 2026, at the Notre-Dame house of the Missionary Oblates of Mary Immaculate, in the Diocese of Saint-Hyacinthe.

This annual meeting allowed PMS leaders to review missionary priorities, strengthen collaboration between dioceses, and prepare for World Mission Day, taking place Oct. 18, 2026.

The participants also had the joy of welcoming Archbishop Ivan Jurkovič, the Apostolic Nuncio to Canada, who led a Eucharistic celebration with participants, offering a time of prayer and communion at the heart of the Council's work.

The program included time for renewal and formation, especially a reflection on the Holy Father's Message for World Mission Day 2026, a presentation of resources for Mission Month, as well as opportunities for diocesan leaders to connect.

Established in 1926 by Pope Pius XI and entrusted to the Pontifical Society for the Propagation of the Faith, World Mission Day has, for a century, reminded everyone that mission is the responsibility of all the baptized and remains a powerful sign of solidarity with the Churches that need it most around the world.

"The National Council reminds us that we are in a state of permanent mission, that the Mission remains current and relevant. The 100^th anniversary of World Mission Day is an opportunity to give thanks for the path traveled, but also to renew our commitment to spreading the Gospel and supporting the Christian communities that need it most," emphasized Father Yoland Ouellet, o.m.i., acting national director of the Pontifical Mission Societies in French-speaking Canada. "The theme chosen by the Holy Father this year, 'One in Christ, United in Mission,' invites us to walk together, and reminds us that we are called to keep nurturing a genuine missionary culture within our Church."

At the end of their meeting, the members of the National Council reaffirmed their commitment to continue supporting dioceses, parishes, and missionary organizations across Canada, while inviting Christian communities to take part in the celebrations for World Mission Day on Oct. 18.

About the Pontifical Mission Societies
An international network within the Dicastery for Evangelization, the Pontifical Mission Societies (PMS) call on Catholics worldwide to bear witness to the Gospel, with particular attention to new and emerging dioceses that, lacking full autonomy, depend on human and spiritual support. Present in more than 120 countries, the PMS comprise four societies: the Society for the Propagation of the Faith (Mission Foi), the Holy Childhood Association (Mond'Ami), the Society of St. Peter the Apostle (Prêtres de demain), and the Pontifical Missionary Union (Animissio), each with its own distinct vocation and charism. For more information, visit opmcanada.ca.