(ZENIT News / Ulan Bator, 09.03.2023).- On the morning of Sunday, September 3rd, after leaving the Apostolic Prefecture, Pope Francis traveled by car to the Hun Theater, where the Ecumenical and Interreligious Meeting took place at 10:10 AM (local time).
Upon his arrival, the Pope was greeted at the entrance by the Apostolic Prefect of Ulan Bator, Cardinal Giorgio Marengo, and another religious leader. Following the welcome speech by Khamba Lama Gabju Demberel Choijamts, Abbot of the Gandan Tegchenling Monastery, and the reading of messages from 11 leaders of different religions, Pope Francis delivered his address.
At the conclusion, after the group photo, Pope Francis returned by car to the Apostolic Prefecture for a private lunch.
In the afternoon, the Pope once again left his temporary residence in Ulan Bator and traveled by car to the Steppe Arena for the Holy Mass.
Upon his arrival, after changing cars, the Pope made some rounds in a golf cart among the more than 2,000 faithful present, and at 4:00 PM (local time), he presided over the Eucharistic Celebration in English on the 22nd Sunday in Ordinary Time. During the Holy Mass, following the proclamation of the Gospel, Pope Francis delivered the homily.
At the end, following a tribute speech by the Apostolic Prefect of Ulan Bator, Cardinal Giorgio Marengo, and before the final blessing, Pope Francis extended a final greeting and words of gratitude to the faithful and pilgrims present. He then returned by car to the Apostolic Prefecture for a private dinner.
