The vibrant city of Penang, Malaysia, is gearing up to host the Great Pilgrimage of Hope, a landmark gathering of Catholic leaders across Asia, from November 27 to 30, 2025. Bringing together bishops, priests, religious, and lay leaders, the event aims to discern, dialogue, celebrate, and chart a hopeful path for the Church in Asia.
The Right Honourable Datuk Aaron Agu Dagang, Minister of National Unity, Malaysia, will grace the opening ceremony on November 27 in Penang and deliver the Officiating Address.
Theme and Purpose
The Pilgrimage will reflect on the theme, “Journeying together as peoples of Asia”, highlighting the Church’s desire to walk together in faith, celebrating the continent’s rich diversity. Organized by the FABC Office of Evangelization and hosted by the Diocese of Penang, the pilgrimage is supported by Pontifical Mission Societies – Asia and held in collaboration with the Bishops’ Conferences of Malaysia, Singapore, and Brunei.
Delegates and Program
The Pilgrimage will gather 773 delegates from 23 countries, including India (122), Philippines (128), Malaysia (144), Thailand (34), Vietnam (30), and others. The assembly will feature participation from key Church leaders such as Cardinal Luis Antonio Cardinal Tagle, Pro-Prefect of the Dicastery for Evangelization; Cardinal Pablo Virgilio David, Bishop of Kalookan, Philippines; Archbishop Simon Poh of Kuching, Malaysia; Cardinal Dato’ Seri Sebastian Francis, Bishop of the Diocese of Penang; and Bishop George Pallipparambil SDB, Chairman of the Federation of Asian Bishops’ Conferences – Office of Evangelization.
Following the synodal format, the pilgrimage will encourage sharing, dialogue, and listening among participants. The program will include keynote addresses and impact sessions exploring topics such as youth ministry, peace and reconciliation, interreligious dialogue, and care for our common home.
Holy Mass and Cultural Highlights
The Pilgrimage will include a public Holy Mass at the Minor Basilica of St. Anne, celebrated by Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle. It is one of the most historic and venerated churches in Southeast Asia. Following the Mass, the gathering will feature a special concert by Fr. Rob Galea of Australia, an internationally acclaimed singer, songwriter, author, and founder of ICON Ministry, offering a joyful musical celebration.
The event will also have other cultural programs, including a concert by The Rexband, highlighting the rich cultural heritage of Asia.
Media Coverage
Radio Veritas Asia is the official media partner of the Great Pilgrimage of Hope event. Audiences can follow live updates, highlights, and stories on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, X, and TikTok at Radio Veritas Asia (@VeritasAsia) or via our website www.rvasia.org.
The Great Pilgrimage of Hope promises to be a defining moment for the Church in Asia – a journey of faith, unity, and hope, inspiring generations to live the Catholic faith while honoring the continent’s cultural richness.
