One of the first missionaries who, like three supporting pillars of a hearth, stood side by side with his fellow missionaries, united in heart and spirit, sowing the seeds of the Catholic faith on the sacred soil of Mongolia and spreading the light of faith, hope, compassion, and love among the Mongolian people, the beloved Fr. Robert Goossens, CICM, was called home to the house of his Heavenly Father on August 15, 2026, and entered into eternal life in Christ.

Fr. Robert Goossens was born in Belgium in 1928 and spent the final years of his life in Japan, returning to his Lord at the age of 97.

For ten years, from 1992 to 2002, he faithfully served among the people of Mongolia, proclaiming the Good News of Christ and witnessing through his words and deeds to the mercy, love, and grace of God. Together with his fellow missionaries, he labored across the vast land of Mongolia, helping to lay the foundations of the Catholic Church and sowing the seeds of faith in the hearts of many. He was a faithful servant of God whose life was dedicated to the Gospel and to the people he served.

In 2012, he returned to Mongolia to take part in the celebration of the 20th anniversary of the Catholic Church in Mongolia and to meet once again with his Mongolian brothers and sisters. This became his final visit to Mongolia.

On August 18, 2026, the CICM brothers in Japan celebrated the funeral Mass for Fr. Robert Goossens, giving thanks to God for his life and ministry and entrusting his soul to the mercy of the Lord in prayer.

May the seeds of faith he planted in Mongolia, the love of Christ he shared, and the hope he witnessed continue to flourish in the life of the Catholic Church in Mongolia.

We extend our deepest condolences to the family and relatives of Fr. Robert Goossens, to his CICM brothers, and to all those who served and worked alongside him.

May perpetual light shine upon him forever.

Apostolic Prefecture of Ulaanbaatar