(UCAN): The Vatican confirmed on April 12 that Pope Francis will visit Singapore from September 11 to 13 during his four-nation Asia visit, according to an official communication. It will be his 43rd apostolic visit.
André Ahchak, the communication chief of the Archdiocese of Singapore, confirmed the papal visit in a press release, saying the archdiocese”is delighted to share this joyful news.”
William Cardinal Goh, archbishop of Singapore, said the papal visit is an honour for the Church and city state.
“It has been 38 years since we had a visit from the Vicar of Christ to Singapore, when Pope St. John Paul II honoured us with a visit on 20 November 1986. It is my hope that this visit of the Holy Father, Pope Francis, will bring renewed fervour to all Catholics in Singapore, uniting them in faith and mission, especially in these most challenging of times,” Archbishop Goh said.
The archbishop said that apart from official state engagements, the highlight of Pope Francis’ visit is expected to be a Eucharistic celebration with on September 12.
The Singapore government, the Holy See and local Church officials are still discussing the details of the visit. A new website, www.popefrancis2024.sg, will be launched to provide more information about the visit in due course.
The pope is also scheduled to visit Indonesia, Papua New Guinea and Timor-Leste during his September 2 to 13 Asia visit, Vatican News reported. He will first visit Indonesia from September 3 to 6 and then visit Port Moresby, the capital of Papua New Guinea, and Vanimo from September 6 to 9.
