Pope Francis Visits Remote Papua New Guinea Community

Women wear face paint and traditional headdress before Pope Francis gives an address during meeting with young people in the Sir John Guise Stadium in Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea, Monday, Sept. 9,

Pope Francis embarked on a significant journey to the remote jungles of Papua New Guinea to celebrate the Catholic Church's presence on the peripheries. The Pope arrived in Vanimo, a town on the northwest coast of the South Pacific nation, aboard a Royal Australian Air Force C-130 transport plane from Port Moresby.

Upon his arrival, an estimated 20,000 people greeted him with singing and dancing in front of the Vanimo cathedral. Pope Francis donned a feathered headdress presented to him and addressed the community, commending the church workers for their efforts and urging the residents to foster unity and harmony among themselves.

During his visit, Pope Francis emphasized the need to combat tribal violence, gender-based violence, and destructive behaviors such as violence, infidelity, and substance abuse that plague the region. He encouraged the community to work together like an orchestra to overcome rivalries and promote peace and happiness.

He addressed tribal violence, gender-based violence, and destructive behaviors.

Pope Francis celebrated Catholic Church presence in remote Papua New Guinea.

Pope Francis encouraged unity and harmony among the community.

He delivered essential supplies and pledged support for a new school.

The Pope highlighted the work of Catholic missionaries and their dedication.

The event featured elements of the Pope's Argentine heritage.

Pope Francis commended church workers for their efforts.

He urged the community to work together to promote peace and happiness.

Pope Francis emphasized reaching out to marginalized communities.

The visit was part of the Pope's broader tour of Southeast Asia and Oceania.

The Pope's visit to Vanimo was marked by his delivery of essential supplies, including medicine, clothing, musical instruments, and toys. Additionally, he pledged support for the construction of a new secondary school to address the educational needs of the local children.

With a special affinity for Catholic missionaries, Pope Francis highlighted the importance of their work and expressed his admiration for their dedication. The event in Vanimo featured elements of the Pope's Argentine heritage, including the presence of the Virgin of Lujan statue and the serving of mate, a traditional Argentine tea.

Overall, the visit to Papua New Guinea was a significant part of Pope Francis' broader tour of Southeast Asia and Oceania, reflecting his commitment to reaching out to marginalized communities and promoting peace and solidarity among diverse populations.