Pope Francis Inaugurates Homeless Clinic During Historic Visit to Mongolia, Emphasizing Charity Over Conversion

Concluding his groundbreaking visit to Mongolia, Pope Francis dedicated a charitable facility aimed at assisting the homeless, disabled, and victims of domestic abuse. The Pope underscored that such endeavors are not designed for proselytization, but rather serve as manifestations of Christian benevolence.

During his tour of the House of Mercy—a three-story building repurposed from an old school—the Pope highlighted the local church’s commitment to social outreach, marking the culmination of a four-day visit to a region where the Vatican has historically desired to establish a stronger presence.

Catholic missions in Mongolia, staffed predominantly by foreign personnel, already manage various shelters, orphanages, and nursing homes for Mongolia’s 3.3 million population, where one-third live below the poverty line. The newly-opened clinic signifies the comprehensive social contribution of the Catholic Church in Mongolia to the broader community.

In his address at the facility, Pope Francis argued that a nation’s true advancement should not be assessed merely by economic prosperity or military strength, but by its investment in healthcare, education, and the holistic development of its citizenry. He called on all Mongolians, regardless of their financial standing, to actively engage in charitable works.

As the Pope departed the clinic, an emotional crowd, largely of Chinese origin, gathered around his vehicle. These individuals sang praises, attributing to him divine representation, and some were even allowed to offer gifts personally to the Pope. Security had to eventually clear the crowd, although no untoward incidents occurred.

While the Catholic Church has previously faced accusations of utilizing charitable enterprises to gain converts—especially in China, where it faces state scrutiny—Pope Francis adamantly refuted such claims. He emphasized that the Church’s charitable actions aim to alleviate suffering without an underlying agenda for conversion.

In a country where religious practices were once banned under a communist regime allied with the Soviet Union, Mongolia now constitutionally guarantees religious freedom. Various Christian denominations have subsequently established themselves in Mongolia, some boasting larger congregations than the local Catholic community.

Pope Francis invited leaders from diverse faith groups to an interfaith dialogue in Ulaanbaatar to collectively address issues of global peace and harmony. He further urged Mongolia’s small Catholic community to focus not on its size but on its contributions, stating that greatness can be achieved through “littleness.”

His visit also had geopolitical significance, especially considering neighboring China’s stringent policies against religious freedom. The Pope made specific overtures to Chinese Catholics during his stay, acknowledging their hardships.

Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning noted the Pope’s outreach, stating China remains open to improving relations with the Vatican. However, China severed its ties with the Vatican in 1949 and has been increasingly rigid about the religious practices allowed within its borders.

On the final day of his visit, social worker Oyunchimeg Tserendolgo brought her students to see the Pope despite not being a Catholic herself. She expressed her joy at seeing the Pope and wished him a long life, hoping for him to bring more good to Mongolia and the world at large.

This religion coverage is supported by Big Big News through its partnership with The Conversation US, funded by Lilly Endowment Inc. The AP holds sole responsibility for the content.

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