Pope Francis has left Papua New Guinea with an important message for peace and unity amongst the country's many tribes, and for its vast natural resources to be managed wisely for the benefit of its people.
His visit has come during a turbulent political and economic period as the PNG government grapples with high inflation, increased poverty, violence and a looming vote of no confidence in parliament.
Pope Francis meets people as he takes part in a meeting with Catholic faithful of the diocese of Vanimo in front of Holy Cross Cathedral in Vanimo, Papua New Guinea. Photo: TIZIANA FABI / AFP
Resources for the benefit of the people
At his first public address to legislators and civil society, the 87-year-old Pontiff expressed his fascination of the cultural and environmental diversity of Papua New Guinea.
But he said these "cultural and environmental treasures" represent a great responsibility and duty to the people.
"These are goods destined by God for the entire community," he said.
"Even if outside experts and large international companies must be involved in the harnessing of these resources, it is only right that the needs of local people are given due consideration when distributing the proceeds and employing workers, in order to improve their living conditions."
For Papua New Guinea's two million Catholics, the Pope's visit has been a uniting force drawing people from all over the country and from different nationalities.
On record, 6000 people travelled in from different parts of the country. Hundreds of faithful made their way to Moresby on foot using old WW2 tracks built by Australian soldiers.
Worshippers gather for a holy mass led by Pope Francis at Sir John Guise Stadium in Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea, on 8 September 2024. Photo: ANDREW KUTAN / AFP
Message to end tribal violence
For 48 members of a Western Highlands group involved in peace mediation in tribal conflict zones, one part of the Pope's message has given them a greater purpose.
The Pontiff extended his message of hope for an end to tribal violence.
He called for all parties to foster a "climate of cooperation" whilst acknowledging differences in views.
In the last three years, Papua New Guineans have seen some of the worst mass killings in tribal conflicts.
"It is my particular hope that tribal violence will come to an end, for it causes many victims and prevents people from living in peace and hinders development.
"I appeal to everyone's sense of responsibility to stop the spiral of violence and instead resolutely embark on the path that leads to fruitful cooperation for the benefit of all the people of the country."
Strengthening of faith
On Sunday, at least 50,000 people gathered at the Sir John Guise Stadium for a Papal mass.
In the front row, Prime Minister, James Marape and Deputy Prime Minister, John Rosso, sat with foreign dignitaries and other officials.
Pope Francis was driven around the stadium as thousands of people recorded fleeting videos and images of the visiting head of their church.
For many of the Catholic faithful who have been involved in the organising of the Papal Visit, and for many more non-practicing faithful, being in the mere presence of the holy father has been awe inspiring.
Clement Kapapal, the Choir group coordinator, said the Pope's message of peace and hope is important for Papua New Guinea at this time.
"I am inspired. At this time, we need to stand firm in our faith," he said.
Hours before to his departure, Pope Francis, in his most engaging of appearances, counseled more than 20,000 young Papua New Guinean's of all ages at a youth festival.
Encouraging them to be respectful to their elders, to be brave in the face of challenges and to build friendships.
"We can make mistakes. But this is also a certainty that we have to correct ourselves," he said. "When we fall, we don't remain down. What's important is we get back up."
End of visit
Pope Francis was accorded a full guard of honour just before 11am PNG time.
He was assisted into an Air Niugini flight which left for Dili, Timor Leste.
