Arriving from Timor-Leste, Pope Francis marked the final leg of his 12-day Asia-Pacific tour with a visit to Singapore. At 87, the Pope continues to defy concerns about his health as he travels from the remote jungles of Papua New Guinea to Jakarta’s grand mosque. Despite his reliance on a wheelchair, walking sticks, and aides, he has maintained an impressive pace as he energized crowds with impromptu call-and-response moments and braving the tropical heat for hours at a time.
Mr. Edwin Tong, Minister for Culture, Community, and Youth, welcomed the Pope and his entourage upon landing. He was presented with flowers by local schoolchildren in a warm reception. Pope Francis is only the second pope to set foot in the Lion City, following a brief five-hour layover by Pope John Paul II in 1986.
PAPAL MASS AT THE NATIONAL STADIUM
The highlight of Pope Francis’ three-day visit to Singapore (from September 11-13, 2024) was an afternoon Mass at the 55,500-seater National Stadium on September 12, held in celebration of the Feast of the Most Holy Name of Mary. Attendance at this historic event was determined through a balloting system via myCatholicSG accounts, with results announced last August 19, 2024.
Just a brief history: Singapore’s oldest surviving Catholic church, the Cathedral of the Good Shepherd, was built between 1843 and 1847. Moreover, there are approximately 395,000 Catholics in the country according to the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Singapore. Pope Francis sees Singapore as a strategic platform to reach not only the region but also the world, highlighting its significance in his global mission.
KEY ADDRESS AT NUS
During his address to Singapore’s authorities, civil society representatives, and members of the diplomatic corps at the National University of Singapore (NUS), the Pope commended the country’s transformation from humble beginnings. He praised its “unwavering commitment” to initiatives that have fueled its rapid development, acknowledging that this success was the result of the people’s careful planning and rational decision-making.
Pope Francis paid tribute to Singapore’s first Prime Minister, Lee Kuan Yew, whose leadership laid the groundwork for the nation’s growth and modernization. He also stressed that Singapore’s achievements extend beyond economic progress, highlighting its dedication to social justice, care for the poor, and the protection of migrant workers. “These migrants contribute greatly to society and should be guaranteed a fair wage,” he added.
A recurring theme in the Pope’s message was the responsible use of technology. He urged Singaporeans to harness technological advancements to “promote understanding and solidarity,” warning against the dangers of isolating individuals in a “false and intangible reality.”
The Pope also praised Singapore’s harmonious coexistence of various ethnicities, cultures, and religions, recognizing it as a model for peaceful multicultural living. The Pope has long been advocating for environmental awareness and sustainable choices. Thus, he thanked Singapore for its commitment to environmental sustainability, expressing his hope that the nation’s future efforts would continue to reflect a spirit of inclusiveness.
A PRAYER FOR SINGAPORE
Pope Francis took time to pray for Singapore’s leaders, asking that God guide them in responding to the needs of their people. He expressed his hope that the country would continue its mission of inclusivity and harmony, for the betterment of all.
