In 1822 a group of French laity, led by Marie-Pauline Jaricot, founded the society in Lyons as a response to foreign mission requests. With papal encouragement it spread to other dioceses in France and Europe before arriving in America. Having received Pontifical status in 1922, it now exists in over 90 countries.

In Brooklyn we primarily focus our energies on the specific needs of more effective evangelization and the sustenance of Church life. Because Mission Sunday preaching and activity are closely connected with the work of the Society, it is not rare to hear people refer to all "foreign missions" as the work of the "Prop."

This past calendar saw our Diocese move from fifth to third place nationally in its contribution to the General Fund in Rome through the National Office. We were responsible for $2,426,959.00 of the $69,879,351.00 collected nationally this past year. Recalling that there are over 220 dioceses in the United States, Brooklyn's almost 3.5% of the total contribution testifies to both our strong missionary heritage and its continued presence today. Although geographically small, Brooklyn remains a large Diocese in terms of population, but it is one that has undergone significant demographic changes in the last thirty years. Even so, our missionary spirit is recognized both nationally and internationally.

The links on this page allow you to further explore the Society for the Propagation of the Faith's efforts here in Brooklyn as well as around the world.