Pope Francis | Diocese of Phoenix/Facebook

For the past seven decades, the day of the Epiphany has been shared with Missionary Childhood Day, giving Catholics two things to celebrate on Jan. 6.

The Diocese of Winona-Rochester wished everyone a “Happy Feast of the Epiphany” on Facebook.

Meanwhile, the head of the Catholic Church tweeted about the other aspect of the day.

“On the Feast of Epiphany, World Missionary Childhood Day is celebrated,” Pope Francis tweeted. “I greet all the boys and girls who everywhere in the world are spreading the joy of being Jesus' friends, and are dedicated through prayer, sacrifice and offerings, to support the missionaries of the Gospel.”

Pope Pius XI established Missionary Childhood Day in December 1950, first called World Holy Childhood Day, to raise awareness of the Pontifical Missionary Childhood Society and to inspire children to show God's compassion to those in need around the world.

One of the four Pontifical Mission Societies, the Society of Holy Childhood, was created in 1843 by French Bishop Charles de Forbin-Janson. Now also known as Mission Together, the Society of Holy Childhood is active in 130 countries. According to Istituto Figlie di Maria Ausiliatrice, its motto is “Children evangelize children, children pray for children, children help children all over the world.”

By giving them responsibility of its objective, the Society of Holy Childhood empowers all of its young members. The Missionary Childhood Society aims to develop a missionary spirit and leadership in children by encouraging them to share faith and material resources with the neediest children. It is a significant opportunity for young missionaries and today's leaders to educate and form connections with all Christian children around the globe. Despite the 170 years that have passed since 1843, missionary kids from every continent are continuing the work and dedication that sets them on the path to Jesus.