100 years ago, Pope Benedict XV released the encyclical Maximum Illud, which called on Catholics to bring the Good News to all peoples. To commemorate this anniversary, Pope Francis declared that October would be Extraordinary Mission Month.

In October, over 600 students from schools across the Archdiocese came together to celebrate Extraordinary Mission Month with a mass in St Christopher’s Cathedral.

Archbishop Christopher Prowse shared Pope Francis’ desire for missionary disciples to be attentive to ‘Head, Heart and Hands’. He explained that while missionary life may begin in the heart, it also requires our minds in inviting others to be closer to God, as well our hands in helping others. His message truly connected with the young congregation.

The Mission Mass was a wonderful collaboration between Catholic Mission, Archdiocesan schools and the Youth Ministry. Youth Ministers from Catholic Schools Youth Ministry Australia (CSYMA) gave an inspiring performance.

Two Year 6 students, Will and Zoe, from St Joseph’s Primary School, O’Connor felt it was a great experience with so many schools involved. They enjoyed and benefited from the readings.

Vicky van der Sanden, Principal of Rosary Primary School, Watson, said “This was a wonderful opportunity for students to come together and be a part of something bigger, part of a System of schools whose efforts combined makes a real difference that they can see.”

Extraordinary Missionary Month was a time for reflection, prayer and support for the missionary efforts of individuals, communities and the Church.