Dili/Timor-Leste: Pope Francis has concluded his visit to Papua New Guinea and is now enroute to Timor-Leste, marking the third stage of his Apostolic Journey through Southeast Asia and Oceania. Following a mass in Port Moresby attended by an estimated 35,000 people, the Pope travelled to Vanimo, a remote town on Papua New Guinea's northwest coast, as reported by Reuters. Photo Credits: Reuters

In Vanimo, located near the border with Indonesia, Pope Francis received a warm reception from the local Catholic community, who are served by missionaries from Argentina. The Pope’s arrival was marked by the delivery of nearly a ton of humanitarian aid and toys to support the local faithful and missionaries.

“You are doing something beautiful, and it is important that you are not left alone,” Pope Francis told the crowd of approximately 20,000 gathered outside the town's modest, wooden cathedral. He praised the natural beauty of the region and the strength of the community, emphasizing the importance of mutual support and love.

The visit to Vanimo was a highlight of the Pope’s Papua New Guinea tour, part of his broader four-nation journey. Following his time in Papua New Guinea, Pope Francis will travel to East Timor and then conclude his visit in Singapore later this week.

During his visit to Vanimo, the town came to a halt with shops closed and roads blocked to accommodate the Pope’s presence. Father Augustine Prado shared that the invitation for the Pope to visit Vanimo was extended back in 2019 during a pilgrimage to Rome. Prado and his siblings, who are part of a group of Argentine missionaries, have been involved in various charitable efforts in the region, including supporting the Baro parish, a school complex, and a shelter for girls who have been victims of violence.

The community’s enthusiasm was evident as locals decorated the main highway to Baro with flowers and banners. Special permits were granted for some residents of neighboring Indonesia to attend the event, including Pelagus Laguwan from Jayawijaya Wamena Catholic Parish, who travelled across the border at a personal expense of about $500. Laguwan expressed deep gratitude for the Pope’s visit, highlighting the significance of this rare opportunity.

Earlier in Port Moresby, Pope Francis delivered a message of inclusion, emphasizing his commitment to prioritizing those on the "peripheries" of society. He reassured the crowd that despite any feelings of distance from the Church, God remains close to them. With over 90% of Papua New Guinea's 12 million residents identifying as Christian and about a quarter as Catholic, the Pope’s visit resonated strongly with the local population.

Before departing Papua New Guinea, Pope Francis held a final meeting with Prime Minister James Marape, marking the end of a significant visit. The Pope is now heading to Timor-Leste, where his schedule includes a welcome ceremony at the Presidential Palace, a meeting with the President, and various engagements with local communities and religious leaders.

In Timor-Leste, the Pope’s agenda includes visiting children with disabilities, meeting with clergy and catechists, and celebrating Mass at the Esplanade of Taci Tolu. The visit to Timor-Leste will be followed by his journey to Singapore, concluding his Apostolic Journey across Southeast Asia and Oceania.