VATICAN CITY — Pope Leo XIV has granted a plenary indulgence through the Apostolic Penitentiary for the 100th World Mission Sunday, observed Sunday, Oct. 18.

The annual observance was established by Pope Pius XI in 1926. Its theme this year is “One in Christ, United in Mission.”

The faithful may receive the indulgence by praying the Rosary in union with Pope Leo for the worldwide spread of the Gospel, together with the usual conditions of sacramental confession, Eucharistic Communion and prayer for the intentions of the Supreme Pontiff.

Message on the Church’s mission

Pope Leo released his message for the observance on Jan. 25, calling the whole Church to continue its missionary path. He identified union with Christ as essential to missionary activity and said the Church needs renewed spiritual and fraternal unity among its members.

The Pope warned that internal disputes, polarization, misunderstandings and distrust can diminish the credibility of the Church’s witness. He described proclaiming the Gospel as a shared undertaking of the Church, carried out communally and synodally.

“Today we celebrate the 100 th World Mission Day,” Pope Leo said. He invoked Christ’s command: “Go into all the world and proclaim the good news to the whole creation.”