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On his first full day in Papua New Guinea, Pope Francis made it clear that the Catholic Church must focus on helping the most vulnerable populations in the country. This visit is part of a larger tour of Asia, during which he is highlighting the importance of assisting those in need.
During his visit to Port Moresby, the capital of Papua New Guinea, Pope Francis urged church leaders to direct their efforts towards the “peripheries of this country” and specifically towards the poorest urban areas. He emphasized the church’s role in supporting those who have been morally and physically affected by prejudice and superstition, highlighting the urgent need for intervention in a country where high rates of sexual assault make it one of the most dangerous places for women and girls, according to Human Rights Watch.
Speaking at the Shrine of Mary Help of Christians, where Catholic organizations carry out humanitarian and educational activities, Pope Francis underscored the importance of addressing the injustices faced by the population, particularly women and girls. His visit to the Caritas Technical Secondary School highlighted his commitment to providing opportunities for impoverished girls, supporting the work of organizations like “street ministry” and “Callan services,” which cater to the needs of the destitute and disabled.
The pope’s message to church leaders was clear: they must embody the “style of God,” which is one of closeness, tenderness, and compassion towards those in need. By following this example, bishops and priests can make a tangible difference in the lives of the people they serve in Papua New Guinea.
During his visit to the girls’ school, Pope Francis was moved by the stories he heard from the students and staff about the challenges they face on a daily basis. Two ministerial ladies shared their experiences with the pope, underscoring the urgency of addressing the systemic issues that prevent women and girls from realizing their full potential in a society marked by inequality and discrimination.
As he interacted with the congregation outside the church, Pope Francis expressed his gratitude for their hospitality and support. In a light-hearted moment, he asked for their prayers, jokingly adding, “pray for me, and not against me.”
Throughout his visit to Papua New Guinea, Pope Francis was met with warmth and enthusiasm by the local population. Tribal groups in colorful traditional attire greeted him with singing and dancing, creating a festive atmosphere that reflected the diversity and richness of the country’s culture.
This trip to Papua New Guinea is one of the longest journeys Pope Francis has undertaken during his tenure as pontiff. Over the course of 12 days, he will visit several countries in Southeast Asia and the South Pacific, including East Timor and Singapore, in an effort to promote dialogue, understanding, and solidarity among diverse communities.
In conclusion, Pope Francis’s visit to Papua New Guinea serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of addressing social, economic, and political challenges faced by marginalized populations. By advocating for justice, compassion, and equality, he is setting an example for church leaders and policymakers to follow in their efforts to create a more inclusive and equitable society for all.
