Below is a letter to supporters from our Director in Britain, Fr. John Boles.
We invite you to celebrate World Mission Day 2025 on Sunday 19th October by calling to mind especially ’missionaries’ from the past that give you hope and encouragement today.
Every Columban I know has been inspired by the wisdom and legacy of Columban missionaries now gone to their rest. At Mass each day, we remember those who journeyed with us and who continue to be a presence in our lives, encouraging us to cross new boundaries for the sake of the Gospel. At this time, we remember and pray especially for our former Director, Fr. Peter Hughes, and all Columbans who have died in the past year.
Fr. Noel O’Neill, Fr. Chris Baker, Fr. Michael O’Loughlin, Fr. Tom Cleary, Sr. Lucia Park Jong, Sr. Breda Noonan, Fr. John Buckley, Fr. Neil Collins, Fr. William Byrne, Fr. Seamus O’Neill, Sr. Maura Dillon, Sr. Mary Margaret Moylan, Sr. Elizabeth Monaghan, Fr. Derek Harris and Fr. Brian Gore. Lord, be gracious to them for the good that they have done.
Who are the ‘missionaries’ of the past that give YOU hope? They might be a renowned saint like Thérèse of Lisieux or Columban. They might also be a deceased relative, friend or neighbour through whom God has revealed His love for you.
As we approach the Feasts of All Saints and All Souls, I invite you to send us the names of your departed loved ones—the ‘saints’ and ‘missionaries’ close to you—so that we can remember them especially in our daily Masses and prayers during November. We give thanks to God for their lives and service to others.
If you wish to make a donation in memory of family or friends, click the link on this page or send a cheque or postal order payable to ’Columban Missionaries’ with your prayer intentions. Alternatively, call the Mission Office on 01564 772096.
Thank you for your faith and friendship,
Fr. John Boles
