People need Jesus in today's world, Pope says in message for Mission Sunday

( 15 July, 2008):- With violence, poverty, discrimination and environmental degradation, putting the future of humanity at risk, people are seeking freedom, redemption and a better world, said Pope Benedict XVI in his message for World Mission Sunday observed Oct.19. Christ is the answer to a troubled world, as his Gospel message brings hope and can change one's life for the better, he said in the message released July 12 at the Vatican. The theme for this year is "Servants and Apostles of Jesus Christ." The Papal message said “Creation and humankind are suffering and people are waiting for a better world. Despite the progress made, the indiscriminate use of the world's natural resources, has put the delicate relationship between humanity and the environment under constant threat, and hurt people's physical and mental health..Torn between hope and anguish for the future, those who believe in Christ will find hope, the Pope affirmed. It is a pressing obligation for everyone to proclaim Christ and his saving message, said the pope. The Papal message said that St. Paul the Apostle, whose jubilee year will run until June 29 of next year, shows today's Christians, that missionary activity is the response to God's love. Although the church suffers from a dwindling number of clergy and a lack of vocations in several parts of the world, this cannot impede the church's call to evangelize, Pope Benedict said. Even in the face of growing difficulties, Christ's mandate remains a priority, he added, and no reason can justify a slowing down or stagnation in the church's missionary activity. Stating that countless numbers of people thirsty for hope and love, are waiting to hear the good news, the Pope called on Catholics to trust in God’s help and remember that preaching the Gospel is a duty and a joy.