On God's Mission

Two-part documentary charts the epic story of the origins, impact and legacy of the Irish Missionary Movement

Exploring the origins, impact and legacy of the Irish Missionary Movement, On God's Mission is the epic story of the thousands of Irish men and women who joined the ranks of missionary orders driven by a potent mix of religious fervour and nationalist idealism.

Featuring extensive interviews with Bob Geldof, President Mary McAleese, Tim Pat Coogan, President Peter Pinda of Tanzania and John O'Shea of Goal, On God's Mission examines why the Irish joined the missions in such great numbers, what impact they had on the people to whom they dedicated their lives, and reveals how their work has impacted on Ireland's international reputation.

On God's Mission is accompanied by compelling film archive dating back to the 1920s and original documentary footage featuring three times Nobel Peace Prize nominee, Father Shay Cullen, and Dr Maura Lynch, a Sister of the Medical Missionaries of Mary.

Ruán Magan, Producer and Director of On God's Mission, says:

The impact and legacy of the Irish Missionary Movement cannot be underestimated and its 1916 origins can be traced right up Ireland's remarkable involvement in overseas humanitarian aid. On God's Mission is an incredible story of how some of Ireland's best and brightest individuals left Ireland far behind them and brought their skills, energy and entrepreneurial flair to those less fortunate.