Pope Francis has arrived in Singapore, marking the final stop of his 12-day Apostolic Journey through Asia and Oceania, the longest of his pontificate. After visiting Indonesia, Papua New Guinea, and Timor-Leste, Pope was warmly welcomed at Changi Airport at 14:52 local time on Wednesday, 11 September. Anticipation is high as the Southeast Asian city-state, with its rich multicultural and multi-religious landscape, prepares for Pope’s visit.
Excitement is particularly palpable at the Junior Catholic College, where young people are rehearsing for an interreligious gathering with Pope Francis, scheduled for Friday. Sister Theresa Seow Lee Huang, FDCC, vice-chairperson of the Archdiocese's Council for Interreligious Dialogue, expressed her hope that this event will inspire greater interreligious harmony among Singapore’s youth. She also voiced concern over the decline in religious vocations in the country, citing a lack of commitment among young people to permanent religious life.
In Singapore, Christians form a significant portion of the population, with Catholics numbering around 176,000. The city-state is predominantly Buddhist, with large Muslim, Taoist, Hindu, and non-religious communities. The population is mainly Chinese, with notable Malay and Indian minorities. Singapore’s strategic location has contributed to its multi-religious and multicultural society, alongside its rapid economic growth, making it a global financial hub and a destination for many seeking better opportunities. A large part of the workforce consists of foreign workers, reflecting the country’s economic vibrancy while raising concerns about job competition, integration, and social cohesion.
Jacob Soo, Executive Director of the Archdiocesan Commission for the Pastoral Care of Migrants and Itinerant People (ACMI), sees Pope Francis’ visit as a chance to emphasize the dignity and rights of migrants. He believes Pope’s presence will reinforce values of unity, inclusivity, and compassion for the vulnerable, especially migrants and marginalized groups.
Singapore also faces challenges related to its rapidly aging population. Victor Seng, Executive Director of St. Theresa’s Home for the elderly, which Pope will visit on Friday, noted that many families struggle to care for their elderly relatives, leading to an increased reliance on nursing homes. With a declining birthrate, Seng predicts that within the next few years, 60 to 70% of the population will be over the age of 60. Residents at St. Theresa’s, both Catholic and non-Catholic, are thrilled about Pope’s upcoming visit. Bridget Ng, one of the residents, shared her joy and anticipation, saying, “We are very happy, honored, and privileged to have Pope Francis visit us.”
Amid these social and economic challenges, Pope’s visit is seen as a moment of renewal for Singapore’s Catholic community. During his stay, he will deliver two public addresses: one on Thursday to authorities, civil society, and diplomats, and another on Friday during his interreligious meeting with young people.
Pope Francis will also hold private meetings with members of the Society of Jesus, as well as with the country’s president, prime minister, and former prime minister. He will preside over a Holy Mass at Singapore National Stadium on Thursday, followed by meetings with the elderly and local Church leaders on Friday. Pope will be hosted at the St. Francis Xavier Retreat Center throughout his visit.