In his message for the occasion, Pope Benedict chose the theme “Vocations at the service of the Church on mission.” He writes:

“The Church is missionary in herself and in each one of her members. Through the sacraments of Baptism and Confirmation, every Christian is called to bear witness and to announce the Gospel.”

... “Christian communities must never fail to provide both children and adults with constant education in the faith. It is necessary to keep alive in the faithful a committed sense of missionary responsibility … This awareness must be nourished by preaching and catechesis, by the liturgy, and by constant formation in prayer. … as well as pastoral planning, of which attention to vocations must be an integral part.”

To read the Holy Father’s message in its entirety, click HERE.