The historic Cathedral of the Assumption here in Thurles, Co. Tipperary will take centre stage on this Sunday, October 18th 2026, when the 11:00am Mass is scheduled to be broadcast live on RTÉ One, to mark the centenary of World Mission Sunday.
Archbishop Kieran O’Reilly SMA, Archbishop of Cashel and Emly, will be the chief celebrant for this special occasion, which brings together the local faith community and viewers throughout Ireland.
This year’s World Mission Sunday theme is “One in Christ, United in Mission”, reflecting the universal Church’s shared commitment to faith, solidarity and missionary service.
Archbishop Will Recall His Own Missionary Experience.
The occasion has particular personal significance for Archbishop Kieran O’Reilly SMA, who reflects on his own experience as a missionary priest. Following his ordination on 17th June 1978, he travelled to Liberia in West Africa, where he served in the Archdiocese of Monrovia from 1978 to 1980. During those formative years, he lived and worked among the communities he served, sharing in their daily lives, their faith and their experiences. His time in Liberia formed an important part of his missionary journey and was followed by further missionary service in Nigeria, where he taught Sacred Scripture at the major seminary in Ibadan.
Supporting Missionaries Across the World.
World Mission Sunday is Pope Leo XIV’s annual appeal for spiritual and financial support for missionaries and the communities they serve around the world.
The annual collection, held at Masses throughout Ireland and the universal Church, supports developing dioceses in Africa, Asia and Latin America.
Funds raised contribute towards essential infrastructure, including churches, medical clinics, nurseries and schools, as well as supporting education, healthcare and the training of future religious leaders.
Ireland’s 2025 World Mission Sunday collection has been reported at approximately €1.3 million.
Cathedral Preparing for Its 150th Anniversary in 2029.
The televised Mass also comes at an important time for Thurles Cathedral, which is preparing to celebrate its 150th anniversary in 2029.
An ongoing fundraising campaign is seeking to raise €2.5 million for a new Cathedral roof, a major restoration project intended to preserve this important landmark for future generations.
The appeal, entitled “In Our Hands – Preserving Our Cathedral”, highlights the responsibility of the local community and supporters to protect the Cathedral’s architectural and spiritual heritage.
Next Sunday’s national broadcast will be an opportunity not only to celebrate the worldwide missionary tradition of the Church but also to showcase Thurles Cathedral and its place at the heart of the Archdiocese of Cashel and Emly.
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