Mon Sep 09 14:18:07 UTC 2024: ## Pope Francis Brings Hope and Aid to Remote Papua New Guinea

**PORT MORESBY, PAPUA NEW GUINEA** – Pope Francis embarked on a historic journey to the remote region of Vanimo in Papua New Guinea on Sunday, continuing his mission to reach the “peripheries” of the Catholic Church. The 87-year-old pontiff was greeted with a warm welcome and traditional performances by the local community.

During his visit, Pope Francis praised the tireless work of missionaries in the region, who provide vital services like healthcare, education, and access to basic amenities. “You are doing something beautiful, and it is important that you are not left alone,” he said to a crowd of over 20,000.

The Pope brought with him nearly a ton of humanitarian aid, including medicine and toys, underscoring his commitment to supporting these communities. He also received a traditional feathered headdress, which he wore during part of the event.

Father Miguel de la Calle, a missionary from Argentina who knows the Pope personally, highlighted the dedication of the local people: “People are coming from all over – from the jungle, the mountains, from Indonesia across the border, from other provinces.”

Earlier in the day, Pope Francis celebrated mass in Port Moresby, addressing a packed stadium of 35,000. He emphasized the importance of unity and belonging, saying, “Brothers and sisters, you who live on this large island in the Pacific Ocean may sometimes have thought of yourselves as a far away and distant land, situated at the edge of the world. Today the Lord wants to draw near to you, to break down distances.”

This visit marks the furthest Pope Francis has travelled from Rome during his pontificate. His journey will continue to Timor-Leste, where over 97% of the population identifies as Catholic, before concluding with visits to East Timor and Australia.

The Pope’s message of religious harmony and support for remote communities stands as a central theme throughout his ambitious 12-day, four-country, two-continent trip.

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