During the month of November, Pope Francis asks, “Let us pray that Christians in Asia may promote dialogue, peace and mutual understanding, especially with those of other religions.”
The pope says that working on dialogue “is an essential part of the Church's mission in Asia.” Given that Christianity represents the minority on this continent, Pope Francis considers it an “exciting challenge.”
Asia accounts for 12 percent of all Christians. There are 141 million Catholics in its 48 countries, and in some regions – such as China, North Korea and certain areas of the Philippines – practicing Catholicism means increased risks and persecution.
