The Incredible Journey of Nearly 6,000 Pilgrims to See Pope Francis in Papua New Guinea
As Pope Francis makes his historic visit to Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea, nearly 6,000 devoted pilgrims from across the country have embarked on arduous and dangerous journeys to witness this once-in-a-lifetime event. These pilgrims have faced treacherous terrain and sea hazards, demonstrating their unwavering faith and dedication.
According to Bishop Rosario Menezes of Lae, there are close to 6,000 registered pilgrims, with more expected to join in the festivities. One such group is the Triumph of the Cross from Mt. Hagen, led by Jacob Ten, a member of the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary.
Recently, Ten and his group faced a harrowing situation at sea when their overloaded dinghy ran out of fuel off the coast of the Gulf province. Stranded and out of contact with their families, the pilgrims sought refuge on a nearby island until Ten was able to secure additional fuel and boats to continue their journey.
Their pilgrimage began with a challenging bus ride through the Southern Highlands, navigating dense jungles and mountainous regions to reach their destination. The Triumph of the Cross group is known for their efforts in resolving tribal conflicts and establishing peace in troubled areas by placing crosses as symbols of hope.
In regions plagued by tribal violence and limited access to services, the Catholic Church plays a crucial role in bringing communities together and providing support.
Pope Francis’ visit has generated significant excitement in Port Moresby, a city unaccustomed to hosting such large gatherings. Approximately 35,000 people have registered for the Sunday Eucharistic Celebration, where the Pope will lead the mass, making it a momentous occasion for the local Catholic population.
As the pilgrims continue their challenging journeys to witness the Pope’s visit, their unwavering faith and dedication serve as a testament to the power of belief and the importance of coming together as a community in the face of adversity.
