Agenzia Fides

Wellington (Agenzia Fides) - “In New Zealand, the faithful are increasingly more aware of the activities and goals of the Missions Month (October) and are preparing for World Missions Sunday (WMS) with fervor, while the donations for the younger Churches continue to increase.” This is what Fr. Paul Shannahan, National Director of the Pontifical Mission Societies in New Zealand, told Agenzia Fides.
The Catholic community in the nation has received with increased interest the reflection and activities that the POM and the local Church have organized for WMS. “In every parish of New Zealand's six dioceses, WMS material has been distributed and, in particular, for missionary aid to projects in Uganda and Zambia, chosen for this year. There will be a special collection during the Masses, but already in this month of October, the donations have increased,” Fr. Paul tells Fides.
Also, the awareness campaign - thanks to the Holy Childhood Association – has focused on schools, especially elementary schools, to involve children and youth who, in their simplicity, become protagonists of the mission and even motivate the adults. (PA) (Agenzia Fides 14/10/2009)