Pope Francis gave special gifts to children at the National Stadium in Singapore on 12 September, marking the first papal mass in the country since 1986. Riding around on a white buggy, the Pope blessed children and infants, handing out rosaries and chocolates.
Background
The rosaries given by Pope Francis were unique, not only because they were personally handed out by the Pope but also because they bore the Vatican City coat of arms. This event was part of a larger mass attended by over 50,000 people, highlighting the significance of the Pope’s visit to Singapore, which aimed to reinforce the Catholic Church’s presence in the region.
Design of rosaries
Each rosary had 59 beads and a crucifix at the end. The Vatican City coat of arms was imprinted at the part commonly known as the “heart” of the rosary. Girls received their rosaries in red pouches, while boys were handed green pouches.
Significance of the event
The mass at the National Stadium was a historic event, drawing Catholics from across the region. Prime Minister Lawrence Wong was also in attendance, underscoring the importance of the occasion. Pope Francis’ visit to Southeast Asia and Oceania focused on inter-faith dialogue and addressing wealth inequality, aiming to strengthen the Catholic Church’s influence in a predominantly non-Catholic region.
Related events
This mass was the final leg of Pope Francis’ 12-day trip to Southeast Asia and Oceania. His visit included various talks and meetings aimed at fostering inter-faith dialogue and addressing social issues. The Pope’s efforts to engage with different communities and address pressing global issues have been a hallmark of his papacy.
The event at the National Stadium was not just a religious gathering but also a moment of cultural and social significance, reflecting the Pope’s broader mission to promote unity and compassion across different faiths and communities.
