Asia/Oceania The Church in Asia and Oceania faces a wide range of challenges that vary significantly from region to region. Poverty, natural disasters, rural exodus and migration are making life difficult for the population and also for the Church in many places. In most Asian countries, Christians are in the minority. Faith-based discrimination and attacks have risen sharply in recent years. During the reporting year, Pope Francis’ visit to Asia and Papua New Guinea was undoubtedly a strong gesture of confidence for the region. The local Churches also receive hope through the reliable aid provided by ACN. In 2024, we supported the Church in Asia/Oceania with a total of 17 million euros.
In many Asian countries, Christianity is seen as a harmful influence from abroad. The Church is often accused of threatening the dominance of the leading party or the supposed religious unity of the nation. Nationalist movements and authoritarian governments frequently respond with discrimination and social marginalisation.
in the region. The Pope also spoke with representatives from other religious groups and ordinary citizens to promote interreligious dialogue and advocate for peace, justice and the integrity of creation. During the reporting year, ACN supported the local Churches in Asia, particularly for the training of priests, religious and lay people, and promoted pastoral care for families and young people. The latter remains a top priority for the Church, as the disintegration of families, along with the uprooting and disorientation of young people, is a global issue that also affects Asia and Oceania. However, ACN also supported the construction and renovation of church buildings, the provision of catechetical materials and the purchase of vehicles for pastoral care. Additionally, our foundation supported initiatives promoting interreligious dialogue, enabling the Catholic Church to contribute to peaceful coexistence in countries with Muslim or other faith majorities.
» The Pope’s visit was a blessing and a source of hope. « Sister Cristina Macrino, project partner from East Timor
From 2 to 13 September 2024, Pope Francis embarked on his 45th apostolic journey, visiting Indonesia, Papua New Guinea, East Timor and Singapore. The Holy Father’s primary goal was to inspire the local Churches to confront the growing challenges with determination. The Pope’s trip to Asia and Oceania was a highly visible signal of confidence for Christians
ACN Activity Report 2024 | 79 Asia/Oceania |
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