Pope Francis’ Upcoming Apostolic Journey to Asia and Oceania

As Pope Francis prepares for his Apostolic Journey to four nations in Asia and Oceania, Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle, pro-prefect of the Dicastery for Evangelization, sheds light on the significance of the Pope’s visit for the universal Church.

By Gianni Valente and Fabio Beretta, Fides News Agency

Embarking on a journey covering almost 40,000 kilometers across four nations in two continents, Pope Francis is set to begin his most extensive and challenging Apostolic Visit yet, starting from Fiumicino airport on September 2.

Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle emphasizes that the Pope’s decision to undertake this journey is not merely to set records but reflects an act of humility and obedience to the Lord’s call in serving the mission of the Church.

With the impending visit to Indonesia, Papua New Guinea, East Timor, and Singapore, Cardinal Tagle highlights the importance of this journey to the “smaller flocks” in these regions and its potential impact on global peace efforts.

Exploring the Journey:

Q: What motivates Pope Francis to undertake this demanding journey at almost 88 years old?

Cardinal Tagle: The idea of visiting Asia and Oceania was initially planned in 2020 but was postponed due to the Covid-19 pandemic. The Pope’s decision to reinitiate this journey signifies his deep connection to the “existential peripheries” and a commitment to serving all segments of the Church.

Q: Critics suggest the Pope favors the East over the West. How do you perceive this?

Cardinal Tagle dismisses claims of the Pope’s bias towards certain regions, emphasizing that each Apostolic Visit is a manifestation of solidarity with the faithful and not a reflection of preference. He highlights the significance of nurturing Catholic communities globally, especially in regions with a majority of the world’s population.

Q: What are the potential contributions of the communities visited by the Pope to the universal Church?

Cardinal Tagle sees the “small flocks” visited by the Pope as exemplary models for all believers, especially as Western societies experience a decline in religious influence. He underscores the resilience and faith of these communities in the face of adversity.

Q: What can be expected from each country on the Pope’s itinerary?

Indonesia, known for its diverse cultural landscape, presents an opportunity for interreligious harmony, showcasing acceptance and fraternity among different faith traditions. Papua New Guinea, with its multicultural society, offers insights into the coexistence of tribal cultures and Christian values. Timor-Leste stands as a testimony to faith’s role in post-conflict healing and national unity. In Singapore, a country of technological advancement, the emphasis on religious freedom and social harmony illustrates a balanced societal approach.

Q: How do you view the connection between mission work and martyrdom?

Cardinal Tagle accentuates the transformative power of martyrdom in spreading the Gospel, particularly in regions facing persecution. He emphasizes the importance of respecting the missionary legacy and learning from past experiences to navigate present-day challenges.

As Pope Francis embarks on this significant Apostolic Journey, the focus remains on fostering unity, understanding, and compassion across diverse communities, embodying the spirit of missionary zeal and humility. The upcoming visit promises to be a momentous occasion for the universal Church and all those advocating for global peace and harmony.

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