The Pope’s Worldwide Prayer Network (PWPN) Asia Pacific held its continental meeting from 5 to 9 May in Chiang Mai, Thailand, bringing together delegates from across the continent for five days of prayer, reflection, and dialogue on mission, identity, and future direction. It was a historic gathering as the network welcomed new representatives from Brunei, Myanmar, and Singapore and took place during a significant transition in the leadership of the Catholic Church with the passing of Pope Francis and the joyous election of Pope Leo XIV.
PWPN Asia Pacific Coordinator Fr Alberto Irenus SJ invited the delegates to relive joyfully and spiritually the true inspiration of PWPN—its rootedness in the Sacred Heart of Jesus—in their personal missions, even amidst challenges. In small groups, members highlighted their diverse realities, emphasising needs in formation, documentation, and contextual approaches. Presentations from Thailand, South Korea, Japan, and Vietnam showcased grassroots efforts—from the Eucharistic Youth Movement (EYM) camps to Eucharistic-centred digital initiatives—revealing a mission alive in diverse forms.
On the second day, the focus shifted to the identity and mission of PWPN. International Director Fr Cristóbal Fones SJ reaffirmed the network’s role as a pontifical work anchored in compassion, apostolic prayer, and personal friendship with Jesus. Fr Fones clarified the transition from Apostleship of Prayer (AP) to PWPN and affirmed that EYM’s spiritual path aligns naturally with the Way of the Heart. Delegates shared some accomplishments and challenges from Malaysia, Singapore, Brunei, Myanmar, the Philippines, and Australia—underscoring unity in diversity. Meanwhile, reports from Taiwan, Indonesia, China, and Timor-Leste reflected both innovation and challenges in youth engagement and formation.
The mission of the national coordination teams was the highlight of the third day. Bettina Raed, PWPN Coordinator in Latin America and the Caribbean, reminded delegates that the mission is Christ’s and that their role is to offer what they have with trust. Drawing on John 6:3-13, delegates were guided to see how to live out their shared mission, akin to the disciples who follow Jesus’ instructions. It is Jesus who leads, who encourages, who gives the directions. PWPN’s task is to serve and gather—to be the first to attend to the people and the last to collect what is left over. It is not our organisation nor our bread, said Raed. It is Jesus who gives the instructions and feeds everyone abundantly.
The final day centred on mission, challenges, and future priorities. A reflection on the Emmaus story led to group discernment on how Christ walks with PWPN through mission. Fr Fones emphasised three future priorities: simplicity, relationship over digital metrics, and diplomatic engagement with Church leaders. Plans for upcoming meetings, reports, and the 2026 EYM international conference were also announced. The meeting was so edifying that many members offered to host future gatherings and formation sessions. The group departed Chiang Mai with gratitude and renewed faith and a deepened commitment to the shared mission of compassion.
