TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — The former vice-president of Taiwan, Chen Chien-jen (陳建仁), arrived at the Vatican on Wednesday for the Catholic Church’s Jubilee celebrations, which are ongoing throughout the year

Chen, a lifelong Catholic, made the pilgrimage with his wife Luo Feng-ping (羅鳳蘋) and a group of Taiwanese Catholics, reported CNA. In addition to taking the rare opportunity to pass through the gate of St. Peter’s Basilica, the group also prayed for the recovery of the ailing Pope Francis. 

While in the city, the group also visited Taiwan’s embassy. The Vatican is one of Taiwan’s few allies with official diplomatic relations.

During his visit to the embassy, Chen said Taiwan's Catholics are very concerned about the Pope’s condition. He said many have begun including prayers for the Pope’s health in their regular mass services over recent weeks. 

Chen also thanked Ambassador Matthew S.M. Lee (李世明) and the embassy staff for their hard work maintaining diplomatic relations between Taiwan and the Vatican, per CNA. 

Lee said Chen has inspired Taiwanese Catholics and done much to advance strong bilateral relations between Taiwan and the Vatican.