Hope across Asia: Pope Francis' journey of peace

“Let us be builders of bridges, not walls.” — Pope Francis

Pope Francis's visits to Asia have been truly historic, combining compassion, interfaith dialogue, and a call for peace. His journeys through the continent not only strengthened the bonds of the Catholic community but also fostered mutual respect among diverse faiths and cultures.

2014: South Korea—Embracing the Youth and Martyrs

In August 2014, Pope Francis embarked on his first Asian visit to South Korea, a nation with a growing Catholic population. The highlight was the Sixth Asian Youth Day in Daejeon, where he urged the youth to be “guardians of creation” and champions of peace. 

He beatified 124 Korean martyrs in Seoul, calling them “shining witnesses to the power of faith.” His meeting with President Park Geun-hye and local bishops emphasized the importance of dialogue and reconciliation on the divided Korean peninsula.

2015: Sri Lanka and the Philippines—A Call for Peace and Compassion

Pope Francis’s 2015 journey to Sri Lanka and the Philippines was marked by messages of unity and mercy.

In Sri Lanka, he canonized Saint Joseph Vaz, the country’s first saint, praising him as “a tireless missionary who served others despite great hardship.” He also participated in interfaith meetings, promoting harmony among Buddhists, Hindus, Muslims, and Christians.

The Philippines welcomed the Pope with overwhelming devotion. In Manila, a record-breaking crowd of 6 million gathered for Mass, where he called on Filipinos to “protect the family against insidious attacks.” In Tacloban, amidst heavy rain, he visited survivors of Typhoon Haiyan, offering heartfelt prayers and comfort: “I am here to be with you. A little bit late, but I am here.”

2017: Myanmar and Bangladesh—Voices for the Voiceless

In 2017, Pope Francis visited Myanmar and Bangladesh, focusing on peace and human dignity.

In Myanmar, despite global tensions over the Rohingya crisis, the Pope emphasized peace and reconciliation. In an interfaith dialogue, he stated, “The future of Myanmar must be peace based on respect for the dignity and rights of each member of society.”

In Bangladesh, he ordained 16 priests during a public Mass in Dhaka, encouraging them to serve the poor and marginalized. At an emotional interfaith meeting, he addressed Rohingya refugees directly: “The presence of God today is also called Rohingya.”

2019: Thailand and Japan—Advocating for Peace and Human Dignity

Pope Francis’s 2019 visit to Thailand and Japan underscored themes of peace, human dignity, and environmental stewardship.

In Thailand, he met with King Maha Vajiralongkorn and Buddhist leaders, promoting interfaith harmony. During Mass in Bangkok, he reflected on missionary zeal: “We are called to go out and meet others, to spread joy and hope.”

Japan's visit was poignant and powerful. In Hiroshima and Nagasaki, he passionately advocated for nuclear disarmament: “A world without nuclear weapons is possible and necessary.” In Tokyo, he addressed the youth, urging them to “dream big and work for a more just and compassionate world.”

Pope Francis’ Historic Visit to Mongolia: Strengthening Faith in Asia

Pope Francis made a historic visit to Mongolia from September 1-4, 2023, marking his first trip to the country and a significant moment for the small but growing Catholic community. This visit was part of his broader mission to engage with Asia, emphasizing interfaith dialogue, peace, and pastoral care.

Mongolia, a predominantly Buddhist nation with fewer than 1,500 Catholics, welcomed Pope Francis as the first pontiff to set foot in the country. His visit focused on strengthening the local church, fostering interreligious dialogue, and highlighting the role of faith in promoting peace and social harmony.

• Meeting with Mongolian Leaders—Pope Francis engaged with government officials, promoting diplomacy and mutual respect

• Interfaith Gathering—He met with representatives of various religious traditions, emphasizing unity and cooperation among faiths.

• Mass for the Catholic Community—The Holy Father celebrated a historic Mass in Ulaanbaatar, offering encouragement to Mongolia’s small yet devoted Catholic population.

• Inauguration of the ‘House of Mercy’—A’ new charitable center reflecting the Church’s commitment to humanitarian aid.

Pope Francis' visit to Mongolia underscored his vision of a missionary Church that reaches the peripheries, strengthening ties between the Vatican and Asia.

2024: Indonesia, Papua New Guinea, Timor-Leste, and Singapore—Strengthening Faith and Dialogue

In 2024, Pope Francis undertook an ambitious tour of four Asian nations, spreading messages of unity, hope, and compassion.

In Indonesia, the world’s largest Muslim-majority country, he met President Joko Widodo and led an interfaith gathering at Jakarta’s Istiqlal Mosque. He emphasized, “We are all brothers and sisters, regardless of our faiths.” A Mass at Gelora Bung Karno Stadium drew 87,000 faithful, highlighting Indonesia’s vibrant Catholic community.

In Papua New Guinea, he celebrated Mass in Port Moresby and brought humanitarian aid to remote areas. In Vanimo, he commended local missionaries, saying, “Your hands bring Christ’s love to the forgotten.”

Timor-Leste welcomed him with heartfelt celebrations. Meeting President José Ramos-Horta, he praised the country’s journey toward peace. At a Mass in Dili, he urged, “Let forgiveness and reconciliation be the foundation of your nation.”

In Singapore, Pope Francis met with President Halimah Yacob and Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong, promoting religious harmony. During an interfaith dialogue, he stated, “Religions must be bridges of peace, not barriers of division.” A Mass at the National Stadium brought together thousands in prayer and reflection.

A Legacy of Hope and Unity

Pope Francis’s pilgrimages across Asia have left an indelible mark, not only on the Catholic faithful but on diverse communities seeking peace and solidarity. His heartfelt messages and gestures of compassion continue to inspire millions, reminding the world of the power of dialogue, mercy, and hope.

“Asia’s diversity is a gift. Let us cherish it and work together for a future of peace and love.” — Pope Francis