Pope Francis Arrives in Mongolia to Warm Reception from Catholic Community
ULAANBAATAR, Sept 1 (Reuters) – Pope Francis made a low-key arrival in Mongolia on Friday, greeted by the joyous cheers of the country’s small Catholic community. However, his presence barely made a ripple in the overwhelmingly Buddhist country.
The 86-year-old pope, who requires a wheelchair due to his age, arrived after a nearly 10-hour flight and will spend the remainder of the day resting. His first engagement is scheduled for Saturday, when he will attend an official welcoming ceremony and address government leaders and diplomats.
At the airport, a woman in traditional dress offered the pope solid yogurt, a customary Mongolian gesture of welcome. As he was wheeled past an honor guard wearing ornate blue and red uniforms, there were few signs that the leader of the world’s Catholics was in town, apart from a few flags and backed up traffic caused by his motorcade.
However, one banner held up by Catholics from Vietnam along the motorcade route stood out. Vietnam, once hostile to Western religions, recently upgraded its relations with the Vatican.
Upon arrival at his destination in the city center, well-wishers greeted the pope, some even putting on a brief song and dance performance. Otgon Zesenjav, a 47-year-old Catholic devotee, expressed her excitement, saying, “I’m so happy to see the pope. I’m very thankful for his visit. We have been waiting for this moment for such a long time. He shook my hand twice. I’m so excited.”
Mongolia is home to only 1,450 Catholics, represented by Cardinal Giorgio Marengo, who has been working in the country for over two decades.
The visit to Mongolia is in line with Pope Francis’ policy of drawing attention to minority communities around the world. He often visits places where Catholics are not the majority, emphasizing the importance of inclusivity and understanding.
In his message to Chinese President Xi Jinping, the pope expressed good wishes for the people of China and assured the president of his prayers for the nation’s wellbeing. This gesture is symbolic as the Vatican’s relationship with China has been historically complicated due to religious differences and political tensions.
While visiting Mongolia, Pope Francis is expected to preside over several religious events, including a Mass in the Steppe Arena on Sunday. He will also attend an inter-religious service and inaugurate a charity center aimed at helping the needy, regardless of their religious affiliations.
As the pope’s visit continues, it remains a significant moment for the small Catholic community in Mongolia and a step towards fostering dialogue and understanding between different religious cultures.
Reporting by Philip Pullella and Joseph Campbell; Editing by Christian Schmollinger