Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Aachen/München (Agenzia Fides) - The collection organized by the Pontifical Mission Societies of Germany (Missio Aachen and Missio München) on the occasion of Africa Day, which takes place every year in early January, goes towards the formation of priests, religious men and women, and lay people in Africa. In the last year, the funds raised have dropped by about 450,000 Euros, reaching only about 1.88 million euros. This is the reason why "Missio" is appealing to the dioceses and all the faithful, asking them to be more sensitive on this Day for Africa.
With the motto "We want to give hope," the Pontifical Mission Societies in Germany are urging support in particular for the formation of women religious in Africa this new year of 2010. "Especially in African states that are marked by corruption and misrule, the Church is often the only hope. Making her commitment to the poor, the sick, and the disadvantaged through well-trained personnel, is the purpose of the Africa Day" National Directors Fr. Eric Englert, OSA (Mission München) and Monsignor Klaus Krämer (Missio Aachen) highlight.
Africa Day is the oldest missionary collection. It was first introduced by Pope Leo XIII in 1891, originally to fight against slavery. Today, the initiative is carried out to support the staff of the Church in Africa working for freedom, justice, and peace, announcing the Good News to everyone. (MS) (Agenzia Fides 28/12/2009)
