Home Mission Sunday is celebrated each year on the Third Sunday in September. We proclaim the unique message of the Gospel that brings joy to all people who receive it with an open heart.
20 September 2026
On Home Mission Sunday the bishops of England and Wales ask parishes to pray for the work of evangelisation across our countries and to look for ways in which we can all do our part in sharing the beauty and joy of knowing Jesus Christ.
When we speak of “Home Mission” we are not neglecting our sisters and brothers around the world but recognising that we are called to witness to Christ in our homes, at work, in our friendships and in every aspect of our daily life.
Being part of the family of God means we should feel ‘at home’ but this also challenges us to be missionary disciples in England and Wales so that we can make a home for all who hunger and thirst for the God who loves them and wants them to come home to him.
In this section, you will find resources to help you celebrate the day. Our main reflection comes from Abbot Hugh Allen O.Praem, Director of Mission for the Bishops’ Conference.
A second collection will also be taken to support the work of the Bishops’ Conference Mission Directorate. Please hold this important work in your prayers.
The work of encounter and evangelisation is promoted through the Directorate for Mission. Through this directorate, the vision of the Holy Father is embraced in a fuller way and promotes the whole ideal of proclamation, evangelisation, dialogue and catechesis.
Our Mission Director, Abbot Hugh Allan O.Praem, offers a reflection for Home Mission Sunday 2026.
Fleur Dorrell, Biblical Apostolate Manager and Faith and Formation Manager, reflects on technology and it's ethical challenges to human dignity.
Helen Townsend, National Coordinator for Catholic Chaplains in Higher Education, offers a reflection on Catholic Chaplaincy in Higher Education and the guidance it offers the future of the Church.
We have a series of suggested bidding prayers and intercessions that can be used in parishes on Home Mission Sunday.
Evangelii Gaudium Sunday is named after Pope Francis’ Apostolic Exhortation on the Joy of the Gospel, the day offers the Catholic community in England and Wales the opportunity to celebrate the beauty of our faith and our commitment to witness to the fullness of life in Christ.
Evangelii Gaudium Sunday 2025 was celebrated on 21 September 2025 with the Theme: “I believe…”
