During his upcoming trip to South Korea, Pope Francis will pray for the unborn at the “Cemetery for Aborted Children.” The cemetery visit is planned as part of his visit to the Kkottoghnae Home for the sick.
Vatican spokesman Father Federico Lombardi also noted in an Aug. 8 press conference that the Pope will deliver his addresses in English and will follow local customs such as removing his shoes before entering certain places.
The Kkttongnae Home, located in the Diocese of Cheongju in South Korea, was created in 1976 by Father John Oh, the founder of the Kkottongnae Brothers and Sisters of Jesus. The priest was inspired by a beggar named Choi Gwi Dong to feed 18 other sick beggars despite his own physical handicaps.
It offers assistance to the homeless, disabled individuals and alcohol addicts. Currently it can serve around 5,000 people.
The Cemetery for Aborted Children is located behind the home and includes a statue of the Holy Family surrounded by a cross representing the unborn.
Announced by the Vatican in March, the Pope’s Aug. 13-18 trip follows an invitation from the president of the Korean Republic, Park Geun-hye, and the bishops of Korea.
Following the motto “Rise Korea, clothe yourself in light, the Lord’s glory shines upon you,” the Pope’s visit begins with his departure from Rome the evening of Wednesday, Aug. 13.
According to Vatican Radio, the Pope is scheduled to meet with political authorities and Korean bishops in Seoul; celebrate Mass in the World Cup Stadium of Daejeon where he will meet with young people gathered for World Asian Youth Day; travel to the Sanctuary of the Martyrs of Seo So Mun, where he will beatify Paul Yun Ji-Chung and 123 Korean martyrs; and meet with Asian bishops in Haemi and celebrate the concluding Mass of World Asian Youth Day in the Castle of Haemi. Pope Francis also will meet with religious leaders of different faiths and he celebrate Mass for Peace and Reconciliation.
Reprinted courtesy of Catholic News Agency.
