Views from the Pulpit: UNITED IN ONE MISSION

Photo Credited: Kathelen

Papal visits are all about building diplomatic and evangelical relationships, strengthening the bond between the Church and other nations. Their visits continuously enhance the lives of Catholics - both inside and outside a country’s borders, particularly in regions with a significant Catholic population. When the Pope visits different countries, it allows political leaders to develop a better understanding of international and Church issues.

Despite his age, limited mobility, and need for a wheelchair, Pope Francis embarked on his 45th international trip—a testament to his unwavering commitment to his mission. His recent visits to Indonesia, Papua New Guinea (PNG), East Timor, and Singapore from 2 to 13 September 2024 were exceptional opportunities for many Catholics who would otherwise not have the chance to meet the Pope in Rome.

Pope Francis made his first stop in Indonesia - the world’s largest Muslim country - with a 2.9% Catholic population, from 2-6 September. During his visit, he encouraged Catholics to embrace the nation’s motto, “Unity in Diversity”, and commended Indonesia’s constitution for its dedication to religious freedom. He emphasised the significance of interfaith dialogue in fostering mutual respect and eradicating prejudices. The Pope participated in an interreligious dialogue, meeting with representatives of Indonesia’s official religions and other traditional beliefs.

Photo Credited: aleteia.org

His second stop was Papua New Guinea (PNG), where he visited remote areas with little electricity and no running water. He brought a large amount of medicine, clothing and toys to distribute to the people in those areas. He urged the Church leaders in PNG to actively work with marginalised communities, the underprivileged and those with disabilities. He emphasised the importance of the Catholic Church in providing tender care, compassion and hope while offering spiritual support to underserved communities.

After his time in PNG, Pope Francis went on a three-day visit to East Timor - also known as Timor Leste - a country with deep Catholic roots after Vatican City. This country endured brutal oppression by Indonesian militants and suffered significant losses, with almost a quarter of its 800,000 people lost, before gaining independence in 2002. Pope Francis uplifted local Catholics and missionaries, encouraging them to hold onto their faith. He also urged the youth to remember the sacrifices of the older generation in building the nation and to work towards peace, prosperity and reconciliation.

His last stop in Singapore was joyous and hopeful, with a message of love and charity. Celebrating Mass with 50,000 Catholics, he emphasised the importance of these virtues, stating that without love and charity, our faith would not flourish. Pope Francis urged Singapore’s political leaders to ensure fair wages and dignity for lower-paid foreign workers. He also highlighted the importance of considering the needs of the poor and the elderly, instilling a sense of hope and compassion. He also appreciated Singapore’s plural society, where various ethnicities, cultures and religions live together in harmony.

The Holy Father’s apostolic visit to these four countries in the Asia-Pacific region over 12 days has brought graces and blessings to these nations, their people and even other Christians and people of different faiths. We keep our prayers and hope that his trip renewed our faith and united us in one mission – evangelisation in Asia. After his departure, he left a lasting impact, making everyone feel valued and giving them treasured life experiences.

“Viva, Viva, Papa Francesco!” (Long live Pope Francis)