Pope Francis lands in Papua New Guinea: Video
Pope Francis arrived in Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea, on Friday, September 6, for a landmark four-day visit.
Pilgrims from across the Pacific have flocked to the city, and many are also gathered in Vanimo, a northwestern town where the Pope will visit on Sunday, September 8.
In Port Moresby, preparations for the visit are in full swing. The city’s streets have been cleaned, vendors moved, and yellow-and-white Holy See flags, fluttering in the Coral Sea breeze, are displayed along lamp posts.
During his visit, the Pope will spend four days and three nights in the country, addressing bishops, meeting street children, travelling to a remote jungle area, and celebrating mass for tens of thousands of followers.
Among the pilgrims is a group of 43 who trekked over 200 kilometres from the north coast to Port Moresby, traversing dense jungle and rugged terrain.
The visit is seen as a significant moment for Papua New Guinea, a country struggling with social issues such as domestic abuse, witch hunts, and tribal violence. Human Rights Watch has highlighted Papua New Guinea as one of the most dangerous places for women and girls, with 80 per cent of women experiencing violence. In the Highlands, accusations of sorcery often lead to deadly witch hunts. Many hope the Pope's visit will bring attention to these issues and inspire change.
The church plays a key role in providing healthcare, education, and welfare in Papua New Guinea, filling gaps left by the state. The citizens are hopeful that the pope’s presence will foster peace and unity in the country.
