From September 2-13, 2024, Pope Francis made an arduous trip of 25,000 miles (32,000 kilometers) to four countries located in Southeast Asia and Oceania: Indonesia, Papua New Guinea, Timor-Leste, and Singapore. Since becoming head of the world’s estimated 1.4 billion Roman Catholics in 2013, this twelve-day pastoral visit is the longest of Francis’ 45 overseas trips, both in terms of its duration and distance covered. Originally, this apostolic journey was scheduled for 2020, but had to be postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
This presentation of Francis’ apostolic journey will unfold in three segments: ● a panoramic summary of significant facts about each of the four countries, including some of the activities of Pope Francis, ● a presentation of eight recurrent themes emerging in the pope’s speeches and homilies throughout the entire apostolic journey, and
- an index-bibliography of the 21 presentations made by the pope.
- Panorama of Four Asia-Pacific Nations
Indonesia – The pope’s first destination was Jakarta, Indonesia. After a thirteen-hour flight from Rome, he arrived there on September 3 and stayed until September 6. Francis is the third pope to visit Indonesia; he was preceded by Paul VI (December 3, 1970) and John Paul II (October 9-13, 1989). While in Indonesia, Francis met with various groups, made several speeches, signed an interfaith declaration, celebrated a public Mass, and preached a moving homily.
Indonesia is the world’s largest Muslim-majority country (over 200 million); it is estimated that 87 percent of the population practices Islam. However, it has a large Christian minority of some 30 million, of which about 9 million are Catholic. Clearly, Pope Francis aimed at promoting ongoing better relations between Christianity and Islam. While the Indonesian constitution guarantees freedom of religion, following its motto which means “unity in diversity,” challenges still remain. The pope visited Jakarta’s largest mosque, and, together with its grand imam, issued a written declaration that religion can never be used to foment violence.
A second priority issue for Pope Francis centered on addressing climate change, a subject that the pope frequently addresses in documents and speeches. This topic is important for Indonesia, since it is the largest archipelago nation in the world, consisting of approximately 17,000 islands divided into 33 provinces; approximately 6,000 of the islands are inhabited. A clear example of the impact of this “climate change reality” is reflected in the fact that governmental authorities are planning to move the capital from Jakarta to a new site in Borneo because the current capital is quite literally sinking into the ground.
Historically, Christianity first arrived in the seventh century; however, it really only took root in the sixteenth century when some Catholic missionaries accompanying the Portuguese started their preaching. The Dutch expelled the Portuguese in 1605 and introduced Calvinist Protestantism; Catholicism was banned from the territory until 1807. Early missionaries were from various religious congregations (e.g. Missionaries of the Sacred Heart, Capuchins, and Divine Word Missionaries). The year 1940 saw the ordination of the first Indonesian bishop, Jesuit Albertus Soegijapranata. Diplomatic relations between the Holy See and the Indonesian Republic were established in 1955. In 1961 Pope John XXIII established the Catholic hierarchy. Bishop Justinus Darmowujono (1914-1994) became the first Indonesian cardinal.
It is noteworthy that although the majority of the population practices Islam, Indonesia is not an Islamic state. Rather, the constitution enshrines the Pancasila, the five basic, foundational principles:
- faith in one supreme God, ● just and civil humanity, ● unity, ● democracy guided by wisdom, and, ● social justice. As noted earlier, “unity in diversity” guides this multi-religious and multi-ethnic country; this guideline has contributed to the historically tolerant character of Islam in Indonesia. There are some radical fringes existing; however, a significant number of moderate Muslims, political leaders, and intellectuals are genuinely open to dialogue, a commitment that the Catholic Church shares.
In Indonesia today, the Catholic Church is a widely recognized institution; it is appreciated for its social, health-care, cultural and educational activities that promote respect for the ethnic, cultural, and religious diversity of the country. The Church is present in public debate and has expressed its opinion on several important social issues; it seeks to combat all forms of fundamentalism that would undermine the fabric of Indonesian society.
Several pastoral priorities of the local Church can be identified. The Indonesian bishops have made evangelization through the use of new media one of their top priorities. They are also urging the Church to become an “outgoing Church” to reach Indonesia’s diverse peoples. In addition, interreligious and ecumenical dialogue as well as the Church’s charitable apostolates are to be strengthened. In 2012 the bishops launched the Indonesian Youth Day, encouraging young people to be “agents of change for justice and peace” throughout the country. Finally, Catholic families are challenged to become agents of evangelization.
Papua New Guinea (PNG) – This relatively small nation has an estimated population of nearly 12 million; it consists of the PNG mainland and about 600 islands with a total land mass of 452,860 square kilometers. Pope Francis is the second pontiff to visit PNG. John Paul II visited the country twice on May 7-10, 1984 and January 16-18, 1995. His second visit in 1995 was on the occasion of the beatification of Pietro To Rot, the first blessed of Papua New Guinea. Francis was greeted by some 20,000 people singing and dancing in the field in front of the Vanimo cathedral, where he donned a feathered headdress presented to him.
Most of the people living in PNG are Melanesian, but some are Micronesian or Polynesian. Surprisingly, PNG has over 800 known languages. The spectrum of society ranges from traditional village-based life to modern urban life. About 80-82 percent of the population derives its livelihood from farming. While Pope Francis will stay only in the largest cities of Indonesia, Timor-Leste, and Singapore, in PNG he will spend about three hours in Vanimo and Baro, towns on the northwestern shore of PNG. There are six documents of Francis’ messages during his meetings with various groups in PNG.
The initial evangelization of Papua New Guinea began in the nineteenth century. In 1844 Pope Gregory XVI created the apostolic vicariate of Melanesia. Various congregations and missionary institutes began serving the people; these included the Italian PIME missionaries and the Sacred Heart (MSC) missionaries. They were followed by several other groups of men and women. The Japanese occupation during World War II was difficult; it saw many religious men and women killed. The victims included catechist and martyr Pietro To Rot (1912-1945). Church work resumed after the war. In 1966 the ecclesiastical hierarchy was established; it comprised three Metropolitan archdioceses and eleven suffragan dioceses.
Currently about 95 percent of Papuans are Christians; the majority are Evangelical Lutherans. Catholics comprise about 32 percent of the population. Fortunately, most of the clergy and religious are now indigenous, though numerous foreign missionaries continue to make their valuable contribution. It can validly be asserted that the Catholic Church is well-established in PNG; this is due to its significant contributions in the fields of healthcare, education, and welfare assistance.
While the majority of the PNG population is Christian, Christianity is not the state religion; all religions are granted full religious freedom. The preamble to the PNG constitution pledges to uphold Christian values. In recent years, the Catholic Church has opposed an initiative by some evangelical groups to amend the constitution and affirm the Christian identity of PNG. In the mind of the Catholic bishops, such amendments would change the identity of PNG, making it a “confessional country”; this would be in contrast with the religious-cultural diversity that has always characterized Papuan society.
Today PNG continues to be the foremost country in Melanesia. As a relatively new nation, it struggles with several challenges: economic stagnation, corruption, law and order problems. In addition, there was the nine-year secessionist movement on the island of Bougainville. This experience led to the decision to offer the various regions of the country a certain amount of political autonomy. The country has yet to capitalize on the tourist industry, though its natural beauty, its flora and fauna, are overwhelming. In addition, the local peoples are wonderfully welcoming.
Some additional social realities the country faces are: inter-tribal mistrust, clear communication due to its numerous diverse languages, and adequate transportation due to a very rugged terrain. The Church seeks to continue to be a “servant-church” in traditional areas (health, education, welfare, etc.) as well as in new apostolates: youth ministry, lay Catholic involvement in evangelization, protection of human rights, care of creation, and ecumenical and interreligious dialogue. Undoubtedly, the pope’s visit brings renewed enthusiasm and dynamism to the local church of PNG!
Timor-Leste – This small nation (15,000 square kilometers; 5,750 square miles), home to approximately 1.3 million people, is located in the eastern half of the island of Timor, sharing a border with Nusa Tengara Timor. Australia is the country’s southern neighbor, separated by the Timor Sea. The earliest Westerners were the Portuguese arriving in the early sixteenth century. The land was occupied at various times by the Dutch, Japanese, and Indonesians. A 1999 UN-supervised referendum resulted in independence from Indonesia, though many earlier years saw ongoing conflict which caused widespread death and destruction. In 2002, Timor-Leste was recognized internationally as an independent state; the capital is Dili, located on the island’s northern coast. The two official languages are Tetun and Portuguese, though English and Indonesian are also spoken and considered working languages.
Pope Francis is not the first pope to visit Timor-Leste. On October 12, 1989 Pope John Paul II paid a one-day visit to this small nation. John Paul II was the first head of state to visit; this reality helped the East Timorese gain their independence in 2002. It is noteworthy that the Philippines is not the only “Christian nation” in the Orient; ninety-six percent of the current Timor-Leste population identifies as Roman Catholic. On the first day of his visit, Francis boldly addressed some “social scourges” (alcohol overuse, youth gangs, and sexual abuse of young people) that challenge both church and civil society. It is also noteworthy that during his visit Pope Francis addressed nearly half of the population, drawing about 600,000 rapturous believers in the tropical heat to the celebration of a Mass on the island’s coast.
Missionaries began the evangelization of Timor-Leste in the first half of the sixteenth century, accompanying the Portuguese who colonized the island. The Church continued its missionary endeavors, even while the country passed many difficult stages on its road to independence. This solidarity with the people during their 25-year struggle for self-determination contributed to an increase in the Catholic population. Several religious orders serving in the country are the Salesians, Jesuits, and Divine Word Missionaries, as well as various international and local women’s religious institutes. Indigenous vocations continue to be numerous.
Since the independence of Timor-Leste, the Church has continued to play an active role in society, particularly in education, healthcare, and social service. It has also intervened in debates on several social issues. Remarkably, the Church’s role in Timorese society is explicitly recognized in the 2002 Constitution; Article 11 states that: “The State recognizes and appreciates the participation of the Catholic Church in the national liberation process of Timor-Leste.” The Constitution guarantees full freedom of conscience, religion, and worship to all religions, encouraging collaboration among various religious denominations; it prohibits any form of discrimination based on religious affiliation.
Following the declaration of independence on May 20, 2002, the Holy See and the Republic of Timor-Leste established diplomatic relations; this has resulted in close and beneficial Church-State collaboration. This relationship has been further strengthened following a Concordat signed on August 15, 2015; this document defines the terms by which the Church is free to provide its services. Areas covered include spiritual assistance in prisons, hospitals, and orphanages as well as charitable activities and the organization of a variety of educational services. The Catholic Church receives a subsidy from the State.
Currently, there are three dioceses in the country: Dili, Bacau, and Maliana, forming one ecclesiastical province, which was established in 2019. As noted earlier, Timor-Leste is overwhelmingly Roman Catholic. Yet, it is also one of world’s poorest nations, relying heavily on energy sources in the Timor Sea. Undoubtedly, the Church’s evangelizing mission needs to continue its dedicated outreach efforts on numerous levels. This task is facilitated by several traditional societal values that focus on family, community, and religion. Pope Francis constantly urged the people: “Move forward with hope”!
Singapore. The final destination on Pope Francis’ itinerary was the city-state of Singapore. This country consists of one thirty-mile-long island with over sixty smaller islands. Singapore’s neighbors include Malaysia to the north and Indonesia to the south. Most of the country is flat; however, the middle of the island includes Bukit Timah Hill which rises to about 545 feet (166 meters); this would compare to the height of a forty-four-story building. During the nineteenth and twentieth centuries, Singapore was known as a place to trade goods; thus, it attracted people from other countries, including China.
The combined area of Singapore is about eighteen square miles. The main island is separated from Peninsular Malaysia to the north by Johor Strait, a narrow channel that can be crossed by road or rail; to the south Singapore is about ten miles from Indonesia. Singapore is the largest port in southeast Asia and one of the busiest in the world. It was previously a British colony and became an independent state on August 9, 1965. Today Singapore is a member of the Commonwealth, the international association consisting of the UK together with states that were previously part of the British Empire. The four official languages in Singapore are English, Malay, Tamil, and Mandarin; however, English is the de facto most widely used language.
Pope Francis is not the first pope to visit Singapore. On November 20, 1986, Pope John Paul II made a five-hour stopover, celebrating a public Mass, meeting government officials, and speaking to the nation’s priests. Historically, the Church in Singapore is closely linked with that of neighboring Malaysia, where the first Portuguese missionaries arrived in the sixteenth century. Remarkably, Saint Francis Xavier arrived in Malacca in 1545. In 1558 the territory was set up as a suffragan diocese of the Archdiocese of Goa which was a Portuguese colony in India. When Malaysia was occupied by the Protestant Dutch, Catholicism was temporarily banned; however, it was restored when the British East India Company purchased Singapore in 1819.
The Catholic Church in Singapore traces its establishment to late 1821 when a young missionary of the Paris Foreign Mission Society (MEP), Father Laurent Imbert, arrived in Singapore. Church growth was steady but slow; approximately twenty years later Catholics numbered around 500. During the Japanese occupation (1942-1945), the Church suffered severe persecution. The Catholic community was restored after the war and the Church resumed its activities in various fields (social service, health care, and education). In 1953 there was a major reorganization of the local Church; the Diocese of Malacca, which included Singapore, was raised to archdiocesan status. Two years later in 1955, the Archdiocese of Malacca became an Ecclesiastical Province with three territories (Archdiocese of Malacca-Singapore and the two suffragan dioceses of Penang and Kuala Lumpur); Archbishop Michel Olçomendy became the metropolitan. In 1972 Singapore became a separate archdiocese without any suffragans; it is directly subject to the Holy See.
Singapore is truly a multi-ethnic and multi-religious society. Buddhists comprise about 43% of the population, Christians around 20%, and Muslims about 14%. There is a small Hindu community, and many Singaporeans do not claim any particular religious affiliation. This pluralism has contributed to shaping positive relations between the state and the religions. As a secular state, Singapore’s constitution guarantees full religious freedom, safeguards religious harmony, and promotes dialogue and collaboration with all religions. The peaceful coexistence among religions is favored by the high rate of mixed marriages; the Catholic Church also benefits from this situation.
The Holy See and Singapore established diplomatic relations in 1981, and on the fiftieth anniversary of independence in 2016 the then president Tony Tan Keng Yam paid an official visit to the Vatican. With nearly 400,000 Catholics, the Church in Singapore is one of the most dynamic in Southeast Asia; half of the Catholics regularly attend Sunday Mass. Many churches are often filled due to the presence of numerous migrants.
Statistical data shows that Christianity, Catholicism in particular, is the only growing religion in this city-state. The Church has 29 parishes, 3 devotional churches, 53 schools, 47 humanitarian organizations, and 2 health-care institutions. Singapore’s first cardinal, William Seng Chye Goh, was installed by Pope Francis in 2022. Two meetings, one with public authorities and another interreligious gathering with young people, as well as one public Mass brought Francis’ ambitious Asia-Pacific trip to a successful conclusion.
- Pivotal Themes and Insights from Pope
Francis
During his apostolic journey in late 2024 to four very diverse countries (Indonesia, Papua New Guinea, Timor-Leste, and Singapore), Pope Francis continued a creative presentation of foundational gospel insights. A perusal of the documents reveals several recurrent insights from the numerous presentations made by Francis during his twelve-day sojourn. In addition, it should be noted that a specific theme was chosen and a unique logo designed for each of the countries visited.
The bishops of Indonesia chose “Faith – Fraternity – Compassion” as the theme for the pope’s visit. The main item of the logo design features an image of Pope Francis with his hand raised in blessing in front of the emblem of the golden Garuda, a sacred eagle. The logo also features a map of Indonesia with the words “an archipelago characterized by a great variety of ethnic and social groups, languages, cultures and religious beliefs.”
“Pray” was the simple theme chosen by the bishops of Papua New Guinea. The word is written vertically alongside a cross. The logo is predominantly in the shades of yellow and orange to evoke the sunrise and sunset. The design features a bird of paradise with the colors of the national flag on its wings.
In Timor-Leste the papal visit centered around the theme: “Let your faith be your culture.” The center of the chosen logo features a photo of Pope Francis giving his blessing “to symbolize the protection that the Timorese people will receive from God” during the pope’s visit. Behind the papal photo is an image of the globe and on the top is a map of Timor-Leste.
The logo for the Singapore visit features the two-word theme in bright yellow letters, “Unity” and “Hope” separated by a starburst cross. The design is “inspired by the star that guided the Magi, by the Eucharist, and by the five stars of the Singapore flag.” As noted by Singapore Cardinal William Goh Seng Chye, “unity” was chosen to express the hope for “communion and harmony among believers, both within the Church and in the context of society and family relations”; “hope” expresses the dream that the pope’s visit will bring hope to Christians in the region, “especially for those who experience discrimination.”
Reflections of Pope Francis – It is noteworthy that Francis devoted his first general audience after his return to Rome (September 18, 2024) to an extensive reflection on his apostolic journey. He noted that he was not the first pope “to fly towards the rising sun.” “Saint Paul VI did that…. I tried to follow his example…. I thank the Lord who allowed me to do so as an elderly pope what I would have liked to do as a young Jesuit, because I wanted to go there as a missionary.” Francis continued: “we are still too Eurocentric, or as they say, ‘western.’ But in reality, the Church is much bigger…. And also, if I may say so, much more alive, in those countries.”
Regarding Indonesia, the pope noted that there he encountered “a lively, dynamic Church … in a country which has a very noble culture, inclined to harmonize diversity, and at the same time has the largest Muslim presence in the world.” Francis sought to emphasize “the three characteristics of the Lord: closeness, mercy and compassion…. If a Christian does not have compassion, he is of no use.” Noting that faith, fraternity, and compassion were the motto of his Indonesian visit, Francis asserted that “on the basis of these words, the Gospel enters every day into the life of the people in a concrete way.”
On his next destination, Pope Francis noted: “I discovered the beauty of an outbound missionary Church in Papua New Guinea, an archipelago stretching out towards the immensity of the Pacific Ocean.” Noting the diversity of ethnic groups that speak over 800 languages, Francis observed that this is “an ideal environment for the Holy Spirit, who loves to make the message of love resonate in the symphony of languages…. He is the master of harmony.” Listening to young people, the pope said: “In them, I saw a new future, without tribal violence, without dependency, without ideological and economic colonialism; a future of fraternity and care for the wonderous natural environment.”
Continuing his post-journey reflections during his general audience, Francis observed: “The power of the Christian message of human and social promotion is particularly evident in the history of Timor-Leste. There, the Church has shared the independence process with the entire population, always guiding it towards peace and reconciliation. It is not a matter of the ideologization of faith, no; it is faith that becomes culture and at the same time enlightens it, purifies it, elevates it…. Faith must be inculturated and cultures must be evangelized. But above all, I was struck by the beauty of the people: a people who have endured much but are joyful, a people wise in suffering…. I would like to say, without exaggeration, that I beathed the ‘air of springtime’ there.”
Referencing Singapore, Pope Francis observed that it is “a country very different to the other three: a city-state, ultra-modern, an economic and financial hub for Asia and beyond. There, Christians are a minority, but they nonetheless form a lively Church, engaged in fostering harmony and fraternity between the various ethnicities, cultures and religions. Even in wealthy Singapore there are the ‘little ones’ who follow the Gospel and become salt and light, witnesses to a hope greater than what economic gains can guarantee.”
Recurring Themes – This presentation now turns to capturing several pivotal insights of Pope Francis during his Asia-Pacific apostolic journey. Eight items are identified and some precious “Francis insights” are briefly noted; the source of all quotes appears in the number in brackets following each citation. These narrative highlights significant topics, but it certainly does not exhaust the profound pastoral wisdom of Francis, a truly “pilgrim pope.”
- Valuing One’s History and Culture. In every country Francis stressed the importance of building on the foundation of the nation’s historical and cultural heritage. In Indonesia Francis said: “I thank you for the common path you are taking. Indonesia is a great country, a mosaic of cultures, ethnicities and religious traditions, a rich diversity…. You are known for this harmony. Do not lose this gift” [3]. In PNG, after observing the multiplicity of islands, languages, and ethnic groups, Francis noted that “this points to an extraordinary cultural and human richness…. I imagine this enormous variety is a challenge to the Holy Spirit, who creates harmony amid differences…. Faith can become a lived culture, inspiring minds and actions and becoming a beacon of light that illuminates the path forward” [8].
While in Timor-Leste Francis asked everyone to “look back with gratitude on our preceding history, to the seed of faith sown here by missionaries…. The preaching of the faith must be inculturated in your culture and your culture must be evangelized…. Creativity is necessary for mission” [16]. The Church in Singapore is “rich in gifts, a Church that is vibrant, growing and engaged in constructive dialogue…. [This Church is] ethnically diverse and yet united and in solidarity … [and is] characterized by a deep respect for all people, regardless of their race, belief or whatever makes them different from ourselves” [20].
- Interreligious Dialogue and Reconciliation. Closely following upon an appreciation of national history and culture is the imperative to foster harmonious relations through dialogue and reconciliation. In Indonesia “the Church desires to increase interreligious dialogue. In this way, prejudices can be eliminated and a climate of mutual respect and trust can grow” [1]. Everyone should be committed to “cultivating his or her own spirituality and practicing his or her religion,” growing in “reciprocal respect and mutual love” and avoiding “rigidity, fundamentalism and extremism” [3]. The people of PNG were encouraged by Pope Francis to “be open … to God and our brothers and sisters … [and not shut oneself off] “from God and others through selfishness, indifference, [and] fear of taking risks, [or becoming] deaf to the word of God and the cry of our neighbor” [11].
In Timor-Leste the pope praised the people for their “assiduous efforts to achieve full reconciliation with your brothers and sisters in Indonesia” (following the struggle for independence) [14]. Francis drew upon the image of the native fragrant sandalwood, encouraging Christians to spread to everyone “the fragrance of Christ and the Gospel, a fragrance that enriches life and fills us with joy” [17]. In Singapore, the local church was praised that it has “constantly promoted interreligious dialogue and cooperation between different faith communities, in a spirit of openness and mutual respect” [19]. “Religions are seen as paths trying to reach God…. There is only one God, and religions are like languages that try to express ways to approach God…. The thing that helps a lot with dialogue is respect” [21].
3. Care for the Poor. Collaboration among people of various faiths enables diverse people
to reach out to serve other’s needs. Francis encouraged Indonesians “to work together, to move forward together in pursuit of the same goals: defense of human dignity, the fight against poverty, and the promotion of peace” [3]. The citizens of PNG need to “promote initiatives that develop natural and human resources in a sustainable and equitable manner … that improves the wellbeing of all, excluding nobody” [8].
In Timor-Leste, the pope expanded upon Jesus’ words: Come with me. Francis asserted: “Jesus says: ‘Come with me because you took care of me when I was hungry, and you gave me food, when I was thirsty, and you gave me drink, when I was sick, and you visited me’ and so on. I call this the sacrament of the poor” [15]. In Singapore, the pope asserted: “The love that God shows us, and that he invites us to share with others ‘responds generously to the needs of the poor … is marked by compassion for those in sorrow … is quick to offer hospitality and is persevering in times of trial. It is always ready to forgive, to hope … love is the very center of the Gospel’” [20].
- Advice for Young People. During his Asia-Pacific visit Pope Francis made a special effort to reach out to the youth. In Jakarta, Indonesia, Francis responded to the words of the youthful Mimi who spoke of Jesus as our beacon of hope; Francis advised everyone: “The experience of facing difficulties together, all doing our best … enriches us and helps us to discover anew each day how important it is for us to work together” [6]. In PNG Francis noted that the Church gives importance to “forming young people and carrying out works of charity”; the Church needs to “convey the enthusiasm for mission to young people”; a proven way to achieve this goal is “by esteeming and respecting one another and putting ourselves at the service of one another” [10]. Before departing PNG Francis told the youth: “Dear young people, I did not want to leave here without meeting you, because you are the hope for the future…. Thank you for your joy, for your presence, for your dreams…. Thank you very much for your hope” [13].
In the young nation of Timor-Leste, Francis addressed some “social scourges” faced by young people (alcohol abuse, gangs, drugs, violence). He told Church people: “give young people ideals to get them out of these traps! … We are called to do everything possible to prevent every kind of abuse and guarantee a healthy and peaceful childhood for all young people” [14]. Francis met the youth and told them: “There are two things that greatly touched my heart when I went out into your streets: the youth of this country and the smiles of its people. You are a people who know how to smile, keep it up, never forget it” [18].
In Singapore Francis held an interreligious meeting with young people. He spoke from the heart: “Young people are courageous and like to seek the truth…. A young person must be a critical thinker … [and] be constructive in criticism…. I say to young people, ‘Take risks, go out! Do not be afraid’! … One of the things that has impressed me most about the young people here is your capacity for interfaith dialogue…. Interfaith dialogue among young people takes courage. The age of youth is the age of courage…. If you dialogue as young people, you will also dialogue as adults; you will dialogue as citizens and politicians…. My wish is that all of you, young people will go forward with hope, and not go backwards! Take risks”! [21].
- Climate Change and the Environment. A topic clearly close to the heart of Pope Francis is the challenge of the changing climate and environmental destruction. In Jakarta Francis mentioned the need “to live our relationship with creation and with our brothers and sisters, especially the most needy, through a personal and communal lifestyle marked by respect, civility and humanity” [2]. For Francis, care of creation needs a” forward-looking commitment to implement the principles of social justice” [1]. In PNG Francis reminded the people that they live in “a magnificent land, enriched by a great variety of plants and birds”; this beautiful land is a “grandiose spectacle of nature bursting forth with life…. The Lord entrusts this richness to you as a sign and an instrument, so that you too may live united in harmony with him and with your brothers and sisters, respecting our common home and looking after one another” [12].
In Timor-Leste Francis challenged the youth in particular concerning “the importance of taking care of our common home and cultivating family unity” [17]. The pope noted that young people need to be responsible. “One of the responsibilities is to learn to take care of the common home, and a young person has to commit himself or herself to this” [17]. While in Singapore, Francis stated: “We cannot hide the fact that today we are experiencing an environmental crisis…. [As Singaporeans] your commitment to sustainable development and the preservation of creation is an example to follow, and your search for innovative solutions to address environmental challenges can encourage other countries to do the same” [19].
- God’s Closeness and Compassion. Pope Francis recalled how the Preamble to the 1945 Indonesian Constitution twice refers to Almighty God and the need for his “divine blessing” to descend upon the nation [1]. In addition, he asserted: “Compassion does not cloud the true vision of life. On the contrary, it makes us see things better, in the light of love, and we see things more clearly with the eyes of the heart”; he also spoke of Mary as “an icon of compassion” and as “the mother of compassion” [2]. In PNG Francis observed that we can “shut ourselves off from God and others through selfishness, indifference, [and] fear of taking risks.” However, “God responds to such distance in the complete opposite way, with the nearness of Jesus. Through his Son, God wishes to show … that he is near and compassionate…. The most important thing is to open ourselves to God and our brothers and sisters” [11].
Speaking in Timor-Leste Francis noted that Christians are called to experience and practice the love of God. “We cannot understand the love of Jesus unless we start to practice love, sharing our lives with those who are most in need…. This is how we come to understand the love of Jesus, who gave his life for us…. [We need] to let ourselves be cared for by God, who loves us so much, to let ourselves be cared for by Our Lady, who is our Mother” [15]. The Singaporean faithful heard these papal words: “The love that God shows us, and that he invites us to share with others, ‘responds generously to the needs of the poor … is marked by compassion to those in sorrow … is quick to offer hospitality and is persevering in times of trial. It is always ready to forgive, to hope’” [20].
- Message of Social Justice. Another omnipresent theme of Francis’ Asia-Pacific journey focused on the Church’s social teaching. In Indonesia he spoke about a “forward-looking commitment to implement the principles of social justice…. It is my hope that everyone, in their daily lives, will be able to draw inspiration from these principles and implement them when carrying out their respective duties, since opus justitiae pax, peace is the work of justice” [1]. A similar message was echoed in PNG. Francis urged the Christian communities to continue their social service and charity throughout the country. This task is to be a collective endeavor in “cooperation with public institutions and with all people of good will, beginning with their brothers and sisters belonging to other Christian denominations and other religions”; these services are undertaken “for the sake of the common good and all the citizens of Papua New Guinea” [8].
In Timor-Leste Francis proposed the Church’s social teaching “as the foundation” for the “formation process” of young people. He noted: “The Church’s social doctrine is not an ideology, instead it is based on fraternity. It is a doctrine that must promote; it promotes the development of people, especially the poorest…. [It enables people] to keep a hopeful gaze toward the future” [14]. Francis praised broad efforts in Singapore which has “striven to build a society in which social justice and the common good are held in high regard. I think in particular of your commitment to improving the quality of life of citizens through public housing policies, high quality education, and an efficient healthcare system” [19]. The pope asked that continued efforts be made “to support the most vulnerable, … the poor and the elderly, … [and] the dignity of migrant workers” [19].
- Challenges for Catholics. In each of the four countries Pope Francis visited, he presented numerous concrete challenges to which the faithful ought to respond. In Indonesia the pope mentioned strengthening the family [1], a renewed commitment to missionary evangelization, particularly through “the mission of the catechist” [2], living in fraternity [2], translating the teachings of the Church into the Bahasa Indonesia language [2], fostering “mutual respect and harmonious coexistence” [3], the avoidance of “rigidity, fundamentalism and extremism” [3], and an attentive listening to the Word of God. Francis prayed for a new Pentecost in Indonesia.
During his visit to Papua New Guinea, Francis emphasized the responsible development and preservation of natural and human resources [8], the end to tribal violence [8], renewed commitment to the works of charity [8], strengthening the role of women in Church and society [8], renewed commitment to forming the next generation, especially young people [9], fostering “catechesis through images” drawn from scripture [10], growth in “communion and friendship with God and with our brothers and sisters” [11], and the promotion of the vocations of “consecrated men and women, catechists and lay missionaries” [12]. Finally, the pope asked the people “to beautify this happy land with your presence as a loving Church” [12].
During the three days Pope Francis sojourned in Timor-Leste, he sought to confirm the people in their faith and to challenge them to authentically practice it. He emphasized the growth of an evangelizing and inculturated faith [14], the strengthening of “family life, education and social customs” rooted in Gospel values [14], fostering of genuine ideals among young people [14], continued promotion of vocations for Church service as missionary disciples [16], fostering “justice against corruption” [16], the avoidance of “those ‘crocodiles’ who want to change your culture” [17], and promoting an enriching relationship between the elderly and grandparents with children and young people [18]. Concluding his visit, Francis said: “Thank you; many thanks for your charity, for your faith. Move forward with hope”! [18].
The papal visit to Singapore was the shortest of this four-country apostolic journey. Francis emphasized multiple topics: the need for a continuing social conscience to promote justice and the common good [19], respect for the dignity of migrant workers [19], assuring freedom for all to practice their beliefs [19], strengthening family life and values [19], serving the fragile men and women in society [20], fostering an integrated society which though ethnically diverse is united in solidarity [20], avoidance of paralyzing fears [21], and respect for the disabilities of others [21]. Francis told Singaporeans: “My wish is that all of you … will go forward with hope…. God bless you and pray for me as I do for you” [21].
Conclusion. Certainly, this lengthy papal journey to the Asia-Pacific region contained numerous insights; it also revealed the generous heart and insightful mind of Pope Francis. We glimpsed the approach of a genuine shepherd, guiding and enriching the flock entrusted to his care. Readers may find this presentation a bit overwhelming with its many topics and insights; however, it is important to recall that Francis presented his profound reflections over a period of twelve full days. Friends, you are invited to explore these treasures and savor the pope’s wise insights—all at your own pace. Take your own personal pilgrimage with Francis! Be assured that your efforts will be richly rewarded with abundant fruit!
III. Documents: September 2024 Journey of Pope Francis
The published documents of the September 2-13, 2024 visit of Pope Francis to four countries in Asia are included here. The titles of twenty-one items are listed. When quotes are cited in the narrative text, the source will be given by simply employing the number of the document in this list; the full title of the document will not be quoted each time the document is cited. This approach will enable a clear identification of the source, without a cumbersome citation process. One should also note that the original published documents do not have numbered paragraphs. Finally, the multiple statistics and data appearing in the first section of this presentation are drawn from numerous publicly available printed and internet sources.
Indonesia: 1. Meeting with the Authorities, Civil Society and the Diplomatic Corps. 2. Meeting with Bishops, Priests, Deacons, Consecrated Persons, Seminarians and Catechists. 3. Interreligious Meeting at the Istiqlal Mosque. 4. Greeting in the Tunnel of Friendship. 5. Joint Declaration of Istiqlal 2024. Meeting with Beneficiaries from Charitable Organizations. 7. Homily at Mass in the Gelora Bung Karno Stadium, followed by words of thanksgiving at the conclusion of the Mass.
Papua New Guinea: 8. Meeting with the Authorities, Civil Society and the Diplomatic Corps. 9. Visit to the Children of Street Ministry and Callan Services. 10. Meeting with the Bishops of Papua New Guinea and Solomon Islands, Priests, Deacons, Consecrated Persons, Seminarians and Catechists. 11. Homily at Mass in the Sir John Guise Stadium. 12. Meeting with the Faithful of the Diocese of Vanimo. 13. Meeting with Young People.
Timor-Leste: 14. Meeting with the Authorities, Civil Society and the Diplomatic Corps. 15. Visit to Children with Disabilities of the Irmãs Alma School. 16. Meeting with Bishops, Priests, Deacons, Consecrated Persons, Seminarians and Catechists. 17. Homily at Mass at the Esplanade of Taci Tolu. 18. Meeting with Young People.
Singapore: 19. Meeting with the Authorities, Civil Society and the Diplomatic Corps. 20. Homily at Mass at the Singapore Sports Hub National Stadium. 21. Interreligious Meeting with Young People.
James H. Kroeger, MM, served mission in Asia (Philippines and Bangladesh) for over five decades. Recently he authored Walking with Pope Francis; The Official Documents in Everyday Language (Orbis Books, USA – 2023) as well as A Joyful Journey with Pope Francis and Exploring Vatican II Treasures: Actors, Events, Insights (Faith Alive Books, USA – 2024).
