In a deeply moving letter published on October 7, 2024, Pope Francis extended his heartfelt support to the Catholics of the Middle East, encouraging them to remain steadfast in their faith despite the violence and despair surrounding them.
As violence escalates between Israel and Lebanon, the country faces a humanitarian crisis of unprecedented scale. Father Rouphael Zgheib, the National Director of The Pontifical Mission Societies in Lebanon underscores the immense challenges faced by communities in the region.
A TPMS team joined the Chikapa community at Our Lady Queen of Peace for Mass. Despite the early hour, over 1,000 parishioners gathered, showcasing their deep faith.
Have you ever gone to Mass “way too early,” because you wanted to secure a seat for what you knew was going to be a “long” liturgy? Or to make sure you found a parking spot?”
From September 2-13, Pope Francis visited Indonesia, Papua New Guinea, Timor-Leste, and Singapore. It was the longest trip of his pontificate so far. In addition to strengthening the faith of the local population, his trip helped shine a light on several social issues, while promoting peace and reconciliation.
During his homily in Singapore, Pope Francis said that anything good that exists and endures in this world, it is because “in innumerable situations, love has prevailed over hate, solidarity over indifference, generosity over selfishness.”
Although Catholics make up only 3% of Singapore’s population, their presence is deeply felt across the country, especially in the fields of education and social welfare.
On Tuesday, Pope Francis celebrated Mass for 600,000 people in Timor-Leste. The overwhelming turnout—half of the country’s population—made this one of the largest gatherings, proportionally, in the history of papal travel.
The faith that sustained the hope of the people of Timor-Leste in their struggle for independence should be a resource now as the country tries to cope with various problems, Pope Francis said.
Pope Francis' visit to Papua New Guinea, which will last three days, is a testament to his commitment to reaching the world’s peripheries, both geographically and spiritually.
In a historic celebration of faith in Indonesia, Pope Francis addressed a crowd of approximately 100,000 people during a Mass in Jakarta, urging Catholics to not only listen to the Word of God but to actively live it.
The Pontifical Mission Societies USA (TPMS USA) is pleased to announce the appointment of Father Roger J. Landry as the new National Director, effective January 2025.
