The Pope has urged the Catholic church to focus on inclusivity and invitation for World Mission Sunday.  

Celebrated every penultimate Sunday of October, the day sees Catholics worldwide join in prayer, for the Church’s mission efforts.

This year’s theme, chosen by Pope Francis, is called: “Go and Invite Everyone to the Banquet”.

Rooted in the Gospel of Matthew, it is inspired by the notion of inclusivity, and welcoming new individuals of all backgrounds to church.

Missio, the Pope’s charity for global mission says: “The need to stand alongside our missionaries in prayer and solidarity has never been so urgent and necessary. In many areas of the world, they will be the first to respond to the physical and spiritual needs of our sisters and brothers who are suffering.”