Papua New Guinea Gears Up for Papal Visit: Pope Francis' September Sojourn

 "Papua New Guinea Gears Up for Papal Visit: Pope Francis' September Sojourn"

Papua New Guinea prepares for the upcoming arrival of Pope Francis, head of the Roman Catholic Church, as announced by the Catholic Bishop’s Conference of Papua New Guinea and Solomon Islands (CBC PNGSI). The visit is scheduled for September 6th to 9th, 2024, following an invitation extended during CBC PNGSI representatives' dialogue with the Pope in Rome last year. While initially without a definite response, Pope Francis formally confirmed his intention to visit PNG in a notice dated April 12.

Most Reverend Bishop Otto Separy, President of CBC PNGSI and Bishop of Bereina, highlighted that the Pope's visit encompasses both a state and spiritual purpose, anticipated to bring peace, joy, and numerous blessings. Preparation, both physical and spiritual, is emphasized by Bishop Separy, who extended the invitation to all religious denominations in the country to partake in celebrating the visit.

Most Reverend Bishop Rozario Menezes, Bishop of Lae, emphasized the shared responsibility of the government and the people of Papua New Guinea in ensuring the Pope's security and respect during his visit. He noted that the Pope's itinerary includes meetings with national leaders as well as with marginalized members of society.

His Eminence Sir John Cardinal Ribat, Archbishop of Port Moresby, disclosed the establishment of a committee tasked with coordinating preparations nationwide for the papal visit.