Pope Francis concluded his first day in Papua New Guinea with a strong message of compassion and support for the underprivileged populations in the country. As part of his extended visit to Asia, the Pope emphasized the importance of the Catholic Church reaching out to vulnerable communities and addressing the pressing issues they face.
During his visit to Port Moresby, Pope Francis urged church leaders to focus on the “peripheries of this country” and to extend their support to the poorest areas in the city. He stressed the need for the church to offer assistance to those who have been affected by “prejudice and superstition,” both morally and physically. Papua New Guinea has been ranked as one of the most dangerous countries for women and girls, with high rates of sexual assault and violence.
Speaking at the Shrine of Mary Help of Christians, where Catholic organizations conduct humanitarian and educational activities, Pope Francis highlighted the importance of providing help and support to those in need. He visited the Caritas Technical Secondary School for impoverished girls, as well as the “street ministry” and “Callan services” that cater to the destitute and disabled members of the community.
Given the challenges faced by women in Papua New Guinea, Pope Francis’s visit to the girls’ school was particularly significant. He listened to accounts from two ministerial ladies at the shrine and reiterated his call for bishops and priests in the country to embody the “style of God” characterized by closeness, tenderness, and compassion.
In his address to the congregation, Pope Francis expressed his gratitude to the people of Papua New Guinea for their warm welcome and patience. He emphasized the need for prayers and support, jokingly asking them to pray for him and not against him as he continues his journey.
Throughout his visit, Pope Francis was greeted with joy and enthusiasm by the people of Papua New Guinea, with colorful traditional attire, singing, and dancing. Despite his advanced age, the 87-year-old Pope appeared happy and engaged, demonstrating his commitment to reaching out to those in need.
This visit to Papua New Guinea is part of Pope Francis’s larger tour of Southeast Asian and South Pacific nations, including stops in East Timor and Singapore. Over the course of 12 days, the Pope will continue to spread his message of love, compassion, and solidarity with the marginalized and disadvantaged populations in the region.
As Pope Francis concludes his first day in Papua New Guinea, he leaves behind a message of hope and support for those who are most in need. His visit serves as a reminder of the Catholic Church’s commitment to serving the marginalized and vulnerable communities, and his words of encouragement will continue to resonate with the people of Papua New Guinea long after his departure.
