Pope Francis has arrived in Papua New Guinea, marking the second leg of his 45th Apostolic Journey. His visit, which will last three days, is a testament to his commitment to reaching the world’s peripheries, both geographically and spiritually. Traveling 19,047 kilometers from the Vatican, this is the furthest Pope Francis has ever gone to be with his flock, highlighting his dedication to those who often feel overlooked.
Despite the logistical challenges posed by the country’s rugged terrain—home to snow-capped mountains, active volcanoes, dense forests, and some of the world’s last uncontacted tribes—Pope Francis is determined to share his message of faith, hope, and environmental stewardship. His arrival in the capital, Port Moresby, was met with enthusiasm by the country’s 2.5 million Catholics, who make up roughly 32% of the population.
The pope’s visit comes at a crucial time for Papua New Guinea as the nation grapples with significant economic difficulties and the tangible effects of climate change. As a country placed on a tectonic plate, frequent earthquakes and landslides pose constant threats to its communities, particularly in the more remote areas, where infrastructure is scarce.
To welcome him and to join in the visit, thousands have traveled from various dioceses of the country and the Solomon Islands: “The expected number of people will exceed 300,000,” explains Monsignor Paul Sundu, bishop of Kundinawa. “Many walked two or three weeks before the papal visit” from all the dioceses of Papua New Guinea and Solomon Islands. “It is a time to receive God’s grace and we move to the capital city as pilgrims,” says this bishop. “The next three days will be a blessing that cannot be forgotten. The presence of the Pope will definitely give us more. joy and courage to continue our mission.”
Yet, even in these peripheries, the Catholic Church plays a vital role. Pope Francis’ visit to Vanimo, a remote town on the northwestern coast, scheduled for Sunday, September 8th, will emphasize his commitment to those at the edges of the world. Here, a group of Argentine missionaries sharing the pope’s vision work to serve isolated communities. Fr. Giorgio Licini, general secretary of the local bishops’ conference, noted that Pope Francis personally insisted on visiting Vanimo, drawn by his connection with an Argentine priest serving in the area.
The Church in Papua New Guinea is a beacon of hope and resilience, with packed churches and thriving Catholic communities despite the nation’s challenges. The pope’s visit underscores the Church’s role in advocating for justice, providing social services, and promoting environmental protection. The Catholic Church, supported by organizations like The Pontifical Mission Societies, has been integral in offering education, healthcare, and social welfare across the country.
A missionary priest readies to celebrate Mass, in Papua New Guinea. (Credit: Courtesy TPMS Spain)
Fr. Victor Roche, SVD, national director of The Pontifical Mission Societies–Papua New Guinea, emphasized the significance of this visit. “Pope Francis is placing special emphasis on those places that are in the peripheries, dioceses and countries that are not normally recognized,” he said. “His presence will strengthen our faith and give visibility to some of our earthly challenges.” Climate change is the most pressing of these challenges, which threatens to submerge several of Papua New Guinea’s islands within the next 50 years.
As Pope Francis continues his visit, his message will undoubtedly resonate deeply with the faithful, both in the capital and in the remote corners of the country. His call to heed the “cry of the poor and the cry of the earth” is expected to inspire new momentum for the country’s efforts toward sustainable development and protecting its unique ecosystems and cultures.
In the coming days, the pope will engage with civil and religious leaders, visit Catholic communities, and celebrate mass with thousands of faithful. His visit is not only a moment of joy and celebration for Catholics in Papua New Guinea but also an opportunity to shine a light on the critical issues of environmental degradation, poverty, and the need for solidarity in the face of global challenges.
The Impact of TPMS in Papua New Guinea
“Without TPMS’s support, our mission would be impossible, which is why I am very grateful to the donors,” said Bishop Sundu.
The first stable missionaries arrived in Papua New Guinea less than 150 years ago. Since the Diocese of Port Moresby was founded in 1889 as the Apostolic Vicariate of New Guinea, The Pontifical Mission Societies (TPMS) have accompanied the growth of evangelization in this country. The other 18 dioceses were subsequently divided from it—the most recent one, Kinbe, was created in 2003.
All of these dioceses are part of the 1,150 mission territories that the Church has around the world. These young Churches are not self-sufficient, either economically or in terms of human resources. This is where TPMS steps in, supported by thousands of Catholics worldwide who are committed to ensuring everyone knows they are invited to the Lord’s table. The second collection on World Mission Sunday, observed on October 20, is key to ensuring that the Church fulfills its mission to make disciples of all nations.
A missionary from the Sisters of the Holy Spirit, in Papua New Guinea. (Credit: Courtesy TPMS Spain)
Laying the Foundations of the Church
In the last five years, The Pontifical Mission Societies have supported the Church in Papua New Guinea with more than 7 million dollars, the majority of which comes from the contributions of the faithful during World Mission Sunday. This funding provides fixed support to each of the dioceses for daily expenses, ensuring they can continue their operations.
In addition, the foundations of the Church are being strengthened through the construction of basic infrastructure such as housing for missionaries, energy and water supplies, and the establishment of new parishes. Diocesan radios have also been equipped to help spread the Gospel to the country’s widely dispersed population.
TPMS has also contributed more than $800,000 to support the work of missionaries with children, including schools, orphanages, and health centers. Additionally, it supports the formation of the country’s future diocesan priests, who are the heirs of the missionaries and the leaders of evangelization. Papua New Guinea has four major diocesan seminaries, all of which are supported annually by the Holy See through the Pontifical Mission Societies, with a total of 104 seminarians.
As the head of the Universal Church, Pope Francis’ journey to Papua New Guinea will leave a lasting impact, reminding the world that even the most distant and vulnerable communities are integral parts of the human family.
