More than a decade before Pauline Jaricot envisioned the idea for the Propagation of the Faith, a young French Nobleman--Charles de Forbin-Janson--was ordained a priest. His goal was to work with and for the poorest of the world's children in the Missions of his day, such as China.

One day in 1843, now Bishop Forbin-Janson had a talk with Pauline Jaricot about his longtime dream. In the course of the conversation, she suggested that he appeal to the children of France to help children around the world--and the Holy Childhood Association (HCA) was born.

Today, the Holy Childhood Association continues to follow the vision of Bishop Forbin-Janson--"children helping children." After learning about the great needs of the world's poorest children, young people are invited to pray and offer financial help so that children in Asia, Africa, the Pacific and Caribbean Islands as well as Latin America may know Christ and experience His love and care.

HCA offers young Catholics an opportunity to grow in faith through mission education, sacrifice and service for others. The Holy Childhood Association makes a difference in the lives of children throughout the world by bringing them Jesus' message of hope, love and peace.