Today’s two sections outline very briefly that each diocese support the missions financially. As far as I know, this has always been my experience in every parish I’ve served and lived in: the mission apostolate is supported by a special collection each year.
7. The pontifical mission societies are to be promoted in every diocese and their statutes, particularly those which deal with the transmission of subsidies, should be duly observed. (Ad Gentes 38)
8. Since the voluntary contributions of the faithful for the missions are not at all sufficient, it is recommended that, as soon as possible, there be established a certain fitting contribution to be made annually by the diocese itself and by the parishes and other diocesan groups from their own income and to be distributed by the Holy See, while other contributions made by the faithful remain intact. (Ad Gentes 38)
“Other diocesan groups” too. What do you make of that? Religious communities? Special societies, like the Knights of Columbus? Schools, including universities? How widespread do you think mission support and awareness is at Catholic high schools and colleges? Many parishes have sister communities in the Third World. This has been much more common over the past generation.
