In 1926, Pope Pius XI instituted World Mission Day to awaken the entire Church to the importance of universal solidarity and missionary commitment.
In the Mother House, the celebration of the Days for the Mission has become a tradition after several years, notably through exhibits from different mission-countries.
After several years, the celebration of the Days for the Mission at rue du Bac has become a tradition at the Mother House, notably through missionary exhibits.
This year, the celebration took place on October 21 and 22 and was made more significant by the 400th anniversary of Saint Louise’s Light of Pentecost. Along the alleyway of the Chapel, panels presented her practicing works of mercy with photos of today’s Daughters of Charity serving in various parts of the world.
The aim of this year’s missionary exhibits was to support two projects:
- The Collège Sainte Catherine Labouré in Midjivin (Cameroon) – constructing a fence to secure the college compound and greening the grounds for fresher surroundings.
- A mission in a suburb of Curitiba (Brazil) – Protecting children and teenagers from violence and drug abuse by creating a space for sports.
On Friday evening, a vigil was held in the chapel with the group “To Jesus through Mary.” Our prayer for the peoples of every continent was inspired by meditating on Pope Francis’ message for World Mission Sunday: “Hearts on fire, feet on the move” (cf. Lk 24:13-35).
In the presence of the first visitors on Saturday morning, the stalls were blessed: Spiritual Treasures, Artisans beyond Borders, Doigts de Fée (Magic Fingers), Coup de cœur (A Real Favorite), surprise basket, and a cafeteria. An area also awaited children for a train ride; it gave a lot of joy, not only to the children but also to the adults…
Many volunteers and employees pitched in to do their share for this event. The atmosphere was joyful and fraternal, with the rhythm of music and dances from Africa, Asia and elsewhere…
We sensed that people love the missions and want to support projects meant to help our brothers and sisters in poverty situations.
“God loves those who are poor and therefore loves those who love poor persons” (St Vincent de Paul).
At the end of these two days, we gathered in the Chapel to give thanks to God and to express our gratitude to all those who have been with us during these deeply meaningful days.
“…Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously. Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. And God is able to bless you abundantly, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work” (2 Cor 9:6-8).
