VATICAN CITY: Pope Francis concluded his historic visit to Mongolia and returned to Rome, marking the end of his transformative four-day apostolic journey. The day commenced with a solemn Morning Holy Communion held at the Apostolic Office, a poignant moment of reflection and spiritual connection. As he embarked on the final leg of his visit, the Pope expressed heartfelt gratitude to the officials who had accompanied him throughout this remarkable journey, extending his appreciation to the Apostolic Prefect Cardinal Giorgio Marengo. To honor Cardinal Georgiou's dedicated service, the Pope presented him with a magnificent golden casa as a token of his esteem.
During the closing moments of his visit, Pope Francis bestowed his blessings upon the "House of Mercy," a sanctuary committed to offering temporary refuge to those experiencing homelessness and victims of domestic violence. This act underscored the Pope's unwavering commitment to compassion and social justice.
Pope Francis then made his way to the Genghis Khan International Airport, where he and his entourage received an official state farewell, marking the culmination of this historic journey. Notably, this visit to Mongolia marked a historic milestone, as Pope Francis became the first Pope ever to set foot in this Asian nation, which shares borders with Russia and China.
As the plane carrying Pope Francis and accompanying journalists took to the skies, the Pontiff sent a heartfelt telegram message to Mongolian President Khurel Sukh Ukhnak. In this message, Pope Francis conveyed his profound gratitude for the warm welcome and gracious hospitality he had received throughout his visit. He assured the Mongolian President of his continued prayers for the nation's peace, unity, and prosperity, reinforcing his commitment to fostering goodwill among nations.
After a long 11-hour journey, the plane carrying Pope Francis and the accompanying journalists touched down at Rome's Leonardo da Vinci Airport at 5:20 p.m. local time, concluding a historic chapter in the annals of papal visits and interfaith diplomacy.
Pope Francis Commends Mongolia's Rich Legacy of Religious Freedom
