Pope Francis visited Singapore on September 12, 2024, as part of his ongoing tour of Asia and Oceania, delivering a message that balanced praise for the city-state’s achievements with calls for greater social inclusivity. The Pope commended Singapore’s economic prosperity and social harmony, describing it as a ‘mosaic of ethnicities, cultures, and religions’ living together peacefully.However, Francis also urged the government to pay greater attention to vulnerable groups, particularly migrant workers. He emphasized the need for ‘dignified pay and better conditions for migrant workers who have contributed to Singapore’s growth’. The Pope warned against an excessive focus on pragmatism and merit, stating that it could lead to ‘legitimizing the exclusion of those who are on the margins of the benefits of progress’.Francis also addressed the role of technology in society, suggesting that ‘sophisticated digital technologies and rapid developments in the use of artificial intelligence should not make us forget that it is essential to cultivate real and concrete human relationships’. He encouraged the use of technology to promote understanding and solidarity rather than isolation.The Pope praised Singapore’s efforts towards sustainable development and environmental protection, urging the country to continue innovating and finding solutions to environmental challenges that could inspire other nations. He also emphasized the importance of interfaith dialogue and the role of the Catholic Church in contributing to Singapore’s development through education and healthcare.During his two-day visit, Pope Francis is scheduled to meet with President Tharman Shanmugaratnam and Prime Minister Lawrence Wong, and will deliver a homily to an estimated 50,000-55,000 people during a mass at the National Stadium. This visit marks a significant moment in Singapore’s interfaith relations and highlights the global Catholic Church’s engagement with issues of social justice and sustainable development in rapidly developing economies.
Key points
- Pope Francis praised Singapore’s economic growth and social harmony while urging for greater inclusivity.
- The Pope emphasized the need for better conditions and fair wages for migrant workers.
- Francis addressed the role of technology in society and the importance of maintaining human connections.
- The Pope commended Singapore’s efforts in sustainable development and environmental protection.
