TAIPEI (TVBS News) — The chairman of Beigang Chao-tian Temple (北港朝天宮) will depart on Thursday (Sept. 19) to visit Pope Francis in the Vatican on Sept. 25.
This significant meeting aims to foster cultural and religious understanding between Taiwan and the Vatican. Located in Yunlin County, Beigang Chao-tian Temple is one of Taiwan's most influential temples and a central hub for Mazu worship.
Despite their different cultural backgrounds, Beigang Chao-tian Temple Chairman Tsai Yung-te (蔡咏鍀) emphasized the shared values of compassion, benevolence, and peace between Mazu and the Madonna.
He stated that the meeting is not just an encounter between East and West but symbolizes the potential for different religions to transcend differences and jointly pursue peace and human welfare.
In honor of this visit, the temple will present Pope Francis with a golden Mazu statue valued at over NT$120,000 and a white jade Mazu statue.
Due to the rising international gold prices, the golden Mazu statue will be temporarily stored at the Vatican embassy for security reasons.
This year marks the 330th anniversary of the Beigang Chao-tian Temple. The temple has organized a series of events to celebrate the anniversary, including a pilgrimage to San Francisco, Houston, and New York in May, showcasing Taiwan to the world.
