Get ready to Pope the party with Pope Francis!!
Pope Francis is scheduled to deliver a state address in Singapore on September 12, as confirmed by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) on Tuesday. This visit marks the first time the head of the Vatican will be in Singapore, visiting from September 11 to 13.
Pope Francis’s visit to Singapore is part of a larger regional tour that includes stops in Indonesia, Papua New Guinea, and Timor Leste. This 12-day trip is notably the longest overseas journey of Pope Francis’ papacy, reflecting the significance of his presence in the region.
With an estimated 395,000 Catholics in Singapore, the upcoming visit holds special meaning for the local Catholic community. The last papal visit to Singapore occurred in 1986 by Pope John Paul II, five years after the country established diplomatic relations with the Holy See, the central governing body of the Catholic Church.
During his stay in Singapore, Pope Francis, who is 87 years old, will be welcomed with a ceremonial reception at Parliament House on September 12, where he is expected to meet with President Tharman Shanmugaratnam and Prime Minister Lawrence Wong. Notably, a new orchid hybrid will be named in honor of Pope Francis and unveiled during the ceremonial welcome, as announced by the MFA.
This historic visit by Pope Francis represents a significant moment for Singapore and its Catholic community, with various events and meetings planned to commemorate the occasion.
