CNN — At 87 years old and facing health challenges, Pope Francis is embarking on his longest journey yet. Over 12 days, he will visit Indonesia, Papua New Guinea, Timor Leste, and Singapore, covering 32,814 kilometers. This historic trip will showcase the themes of inter-religious dialogue and environmental protection that the pope values.
The Catholic Church’s shift towards Asia is highlighted by Francis’ visits to countries like South Korea, Japan, and the Philippines. Embracing diversity, the pope has appointed cardinals from the Philippines and South Korea to key roles.
His visit to countries like Indonesia, where he will engage in interfaith dialogue, shows his commitment to building bridges between religions. Despite challenges, like the Vatican’s relationship with China, the pope remains dedicated to diplomatic efforts.
This momentous journey symbolizes the pope’s enduring energy and his continued efforts to connect with diverse communities worldwide.