HIS Excellency Grand Chief Sir Bob Bofeng Dadae, Governor-General of Papua New Guinea, has issued a warm welcome to His Holiness Pope Francis, who is scheduled to arrive in Port Moresby tomorrow for a four-day State Visit.
Grand Chief Sir Bob said that Pope Francis’s visit is a significant occasion for Christians across Papua New Guinea to come together in unity.
“As a nation with deep Christian values, Papua New Guinea is honored to welcome His Holiness Pope Francis. We have eagerly anticipated this visit for many months. The presence of Pope Francis, as the global leader of the Christian Church, is a momentous event for all Christians in our country, not just those of the Catholic faith,” Grand Chief Sir Bob said.
“This visit comes at a crucial time for our nation, which faces various challenges. It serves as a reminder for all Christians to unite, transcending our cultural differences and diverse beliefs, and to embrace His Holiness as a spiritual leader.”
Sir Bob also praised the proposal to officially declare Papua New Guinea a Christian country, noting that it highlights the nation’s unity in Christian faith despite its rich cultural and religious diversity. He sees this as a positive step for the country and future generations.
“We are deeply grateful for the visit of His Holiness Pope Francis and extend our best wishes for his blessings and guidance during this historic journey to the Asia-Pacific region,” Grand Chief Sir Bob concluded.
Pope Francis will arrive in Port Moresby tomorrow and will pay a Courtesy Call on the Governor-General at Government House on Saturday. His visit will include meetings with political, business, and religious leaders, as well as leaders from Pacific Island countries. The Pope will also visit Catholic-run schools and institutions. Following his time in Port Moresby, he will travel to Vanimo on Sunday and celebrate Holy Mass on both Sunday and next Monday in Port Moresby before departing.
Pope Francis is the leader of the Roman Catholic Church, Bishop of Rome, and Head of the Holy See, and is recognized as the head of the Universal Christian Church.
