Pope Looks Spry Following Health Issues as Epic Asia Trip Begins

Jakarta, Indonesia — Pope Francis commenced his extensive journey on Wednesday, marked by good health and positive spirits, as he embarks on a rigorous 12-day trip throughout Southeast Asia and Oceania. During this span, he is scheduled to traverse over 20,000 miles, stopping in four nations: Indonesia, Papua New Guinea, East Timor, and Singapore.

This journey is set to be the longest and most demanding of Francis’ 11-year papacy, especially as he has recently experienced various health concerns and now relies on a wheelchair for mobility.

The Vatican confirmed that there are no special precautions for this trip. Nevertheless, Francis is accompanied by a doctor and two nurses, as is customary.

In a May interview with CBS Evening News anchor Norah O’Donnell, Francis stated that the thought of resigning had never crossed his mind. He referred to his health as “fine” even after recent struggles with influenza and two intestinal surgeries. Having had only one functioning lung since his youth in Argentina also makes him more vulnerable to respiratory issues.

In his inaugural speech in Indonesia, a nation with the largest Muslim population globally, Francis expressed his condemnation of religious extremism, emphasizing how it distorts faith by employing deceit and violence.

“There are times when faith can be manipulated to foment divisions and increase hatred,” the Pope told an assembly of Indonesian politicians and religious leaders gathered at the presidential palace in Jakarta. He stressed the importance of combating religious intolerance through constructive dialogue.

“In this way,” he asserted, “prejudices can be eliminated, and a climate of mutual respect and trust can grow.”

While Indonesia’s constitution guarantees religious freedom, the country takes pride in its diversity and tolerance. However, the rise of Islamic fundamentalism has raised concerns, highlighted by recurrent incidents of religious violence in recent years.

On the same day, Francis also met with Catholic priests and nuns in Jakarta’s cathedral, offering them encouragement and support.

On Thursday, he is slated to celebrate a mass for Indonesia’s Catholics, who form a small yet vibrant minority at approximately 3% of the population. The Asia Pacific region remains one of the few global areas witnessing growth in Catholicism, evident in both the number of baptized individuals and ordinations.

The Pope’s schedule also includes a meeting with Indonesia’s leading Muslim figure on Thursday, during which they plan to sign a joint declaration addressing humanitarian issues, environmental concerns, and promoting religious tolerance.