By Charles Igwe
Catholics in one of the most remote regions of Papua New Guinea are overjoyed as they prepare to welcome Pope Francis during his upcoming visit. The Pope is scheduled to visit the island nation from September 6th to 9th, 2024, and the coastal city of Vanimo is eagerly anticipating being part of his itinerary.
Father Martín Prado, a missionary living in Vanimo, shared that the local community is thrilled about the Pope’s visit, despite the city’s challenging accessibility. “The only way to reach Vanimo is by aeroplane or by boat,” Father Prado explained, noting that even river crossings become difficult after heavy rainfalls.
Vanimo, located in the northwest, is the capital of Sandaun Province and has a population of around 11,200, with many more living in remote jungle settlements, including a significant number of Catholics. Father Prado highlighted the deep spiritual hunger in these remote areas, where missionaries have baptized entire families and introduced them to the Gospel for the first time.
In preparation for the papal visit, up to 4,000 people have been participating in nightly Rosary prayers and other spiritual activities held on a local football pitch. “We organize talks, hymns, and dances, which the Papuans love,” Father Prado said. “We’ve also had confessions, with people coming from all parishes, some on foot and others by truck. It’s been very moving.”
Father Prado also emphasized the Church’s commitment to supporting the local community, many of whom live in extreme poverty. “People live in very poor conditions and have little access to medicines,” he noted. The missionary, who is part of the Institute of the Incarnate Word, mentioned ongoing efforts to build a home for disabled children, as well as a school and shelter for orphaned girls who have been victims of violence. “We always need help, but we trust that God will provide through the generosity of benefactors,” he said.
Father Prado expressed deep gratitude to Aid to the Church in Need, a foundation that has supported many of the Church’s projects in the region, helping to spread the love of Christ to more people.
Pope Francis will be the second pontiff to visit Papua New Guinea, following in the footsteps of Pope John Paul II, who visited in 1984 and 1995. The Pope is scheduled to visit Vanimo on September 8th, where he will celebrate Mass. During his visit, he will also meet with Sir Bob Dadae, the Governor General, who represents Papua New Guinea’s monarch, King Charles III.
