Myanmar cardinal hopes for ‘renewed sense of faith’ through pope’s visit to Asia

A Myanmar cardinal expressed his hope for the Church in Asia to achieve a “renewed sense of faith” through the visit of the Holy Father to three countries in the continent in September.

“There is excitement among the people not only because they get to see the Pope in person, but I am sure there will be a renewal in the life and faith of the local Churches,” said Cardinal Charles Maung Bo, Archbishop of Yangon in an interview with Vatican Media.

The cardinal, also president of the Federation of the Asian Bishops' Conferences (FABC), took note of the pope’s decision to go to smaller Asian countries where Catholics are a minority.

Pope Francis is set to visit Papua New Guinea, Timor-Leste, and Singapore from September 2 to 13, his 45th apostolic journey abroad and the longest one since the beginning of his papacy.

Cardinal Bo said the pope’s visit is key in building deeper dialogue within the diverse Asian region, which is home to numerous cultures, traditions, and religious beliefs.

“The Holy Father will get a first-hand view of the dynamic diversity of the Churches in Asia and also the faith of its people,” said the prelate.

“Whether rich or poor, majority or minority, the faith of the people remains steadfast despite the diversity of challenges faced in the different countries,” he also said.

Moreover, Cardinal Bo stressed how the upcoming apostolic visit could uplift the hearts of Asians facing political, economic, social, and cultural challenges.

Furthermore, he said the pope would most likely discuss climate care during his visit, a topic close to the Holy Father’s heart.

“We can no longer be bystanders but have to be actively involved in the promotion of climate care for the common good of all. The Church in Asia must also be a protagonist in bringing about this change in the region and the world,” said the cardinal.