[Politics] "Tian Hei Hei" Melody Resonates in the Vatican; Pope Greets Taiwanese String Orchestra

The "St. Cecilia United String Orchestra" from the Catholic Diocese of Taichung was invited to perform at the Pontifical Academy of the Holy Mary Mother of God in the Vatican, and on the 17th local time, participated in a public audience with Pope Leo XIV. Minister of Foreign Affairs Lin Chia-lung shared this news on social media today (18th), mentioning that during his address, the Pope specifically greeted the St. Cecilia United String Orchestra from Taiwan. During the group photo, in addition to encouraging and thanking the orchestra for their wonderful performance, he also invited them to play an encore. Lin Chia-lung stated that the St. Cecilia United String Orchestra's performance in the Vatican was part of the "Taiwan Culture in Europe 2026" series of events promoted by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. He has always believed that the most precious aspect of cultural exchange is the dissemination and interaction through mediums such as music, drama, and art, which also allows more friends to get to know Taiwan. Our Ambassador to the Holy See, H.E. Matthew W.C. Lee, transmitted footage of the event back to Taiwan. Lin Chia-lung said he was deeply moved upon watching it. In the video, the St. Cecilia United String Orchestra can be heard performing popular tunes such as "Tian Hei Hei" and "The Moon Represents My Heart." The familiar Taiwanese melodies resonating in the Vatican conveyed the infectious power of culture transcending language and distance. Lin Chia-lung mentioned that the St. Cecilia United String Orchestra originated from the Holy Rosary Church in Shalu, Taichung. It was established with the encouragement of Father Kurt Joseph Anderson of the Maryknoll Fathers. Father Anderson has dedicated over 50 years to Taiwan. In 2018, to recognize his long-term contributions to Taiwan, the government awarded him a Republic of China (Taiwan) ID card. Lin Chia-lung recalled that he was the Mayor of Taichung at the time and had a city government representative deliver the ID card to the Holy Rosary Church, welcoming Father Anderson as a citizen of Taichung. Lin Chia-lung expressed his gratitude to Ambassador Lee and the diplomatic colleagues for their meticulous arrangements, as well as to Father Anderson and all members of the St. Cecilia United String Orchestra for their efforts and dedication, which left a warm and profound memory of Taiwanese music in the Vatican.