Recently, someone asked me what the newly elected Pope has been doing. Since Pope Leo VIX was elected, his schedule has been obviously busy, almost like a circus, as he attends many events, meets different people and groups, gives audiences, and leads various services. One thing that stands out, though, is that in nearly all his speeches and homilies, he keeps mentioning the words “mission” and “missionaries.” It seems he is reminding us of our role as missionaries, which comes with being baptised.
Today, 22 May 2025, Pope Leo met with the National Directors of the Pontifical Mission Societies and their associates from around 120 countries during their General Annual Assembly. Fr Tony Chantry, MHM, the National Director of Missio England and Wales, had the special opportunity to meet the Holy Father. Always ready for a ‘Mission Appeal’, Fr Tony didn’t miss the chance—even in Rome—handing a Red Box to the Pope himself. Usually, these appeals happen back in England and Wales, but this time he brought his mission spirit to the Vatican. A reliable source said Fr. Tony jokingly whispered to the Pope that he’d be back in a year to collect the Red Box. We will see soon if Fr. Tony tells us whether the Pope agreed to return the Red Box after a year.
Here’s the summary of Pope Leo’s message:
Pope Leo warmly welcomed the National Directors and associates of the Pontifical Mission Societies from over 120 countries at their General Assembly. He thanked them for their vital role in spreading the Gospel. He said these Societies are key in helping all baptized people feel responsible for mission work and in supporting churches where the faith is still growing. He highlighted the good work of the Society for the Propagation of the Faith, the Society of the Holy Childhood, the Society of Saint Peter the Apostle, and the Missionary Union. Pope Leo stressed the need for strong missionary enthusiasm today, as the world is hurting from war, violence and injustice. The Church must be a sign of peace and unity, sharing Jesus with everyone. He praised the efforts around World Mission Sunday and urged Directors to visit local churches to help people see how important missions are. He reflected on two key values of the Societies—communion (being united in faith) and universality (reaching out to all nations). He said these must guide their renewal process. Pope Leo ended by calling everyone to be “missionaries of hope” in this Holy Year and gave his blessing for their continued work.
