Pope Francis to faithful in Vanimo: Let your faith and love outshine nature's beauty

During his address to the faithful gathered at the Esplanade in front of the Holy Cross Cathedral in Vanimo, Pope Francis urged the people of Papua New Guinea to continue spreading the beauty of the Gospel and love within their communities. 

Speaking to a diverse audience, including local authorities, clergy, missionaries, and children, the Holy Father praised the diocese's missionary spirit, which has been vibrant since the 19th century.

"Since the middle of the nineteenth century, the mission here has never ceased," Pope Francis said, commending the dedication of the region's priests, religious, and lay missionaries who have served through education, healthcare, and pastoral care. 

He expressed gratitude for their ongoing commitment, especially in remote areas, and acknowledged the sacrifices they make in their service to others.

Faith in a land of beauty

Pope Francis marveled at the natural beauty of Papua New Guinea, likening the land’s richness to the biblical image of Eden. 

"You are ‘experts’ in beauty here, because you are surrounded by it!" he remarked, highlighting the country’s diverse ecosystems.

 However, he emphasized that there is an even greater beauty within each person—the love they show to one another.

Reflecting on the testimony of local couple David and Maria, who shared their journey in marriage, the Pope stressed the importance of love within families and communities, which he said reflects the beauty of the Gospel. 

"Our mission is precisely to spread the beauty of the Gospel of Christ everywhere through loving God and our brothers and sisters."

Supporting Missionaries and strengthening communities

Pope Francis acknowledged the challenges faced by local missionaries like Steven, who described the long journeys some endure to reach distant communities. He urged the broader community to support these missionaries, ensuring they are not left alone in their important work.

 “The entire community needs to support this effort,” the Pope said, adding that balancing missionary work with family responsibilities is key to maintaining a harmonious life.

The pontiff also encouraged everyone to be missionaries in their daily lives—at home, school, and work—so that the beauty of their natural environment would be matched by the beauty of love and unity within their communities. 

He echoed the teachings of Jesus, saying, "By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another."

A call to overcome divisions and destructive behaviors

Pope Francis called for unity and reconciliation, urging the people to overcome divisions, whether personal, family-related, or tribal. 

He encouraged them to reject destructive behaviors, such as violence, exploitation, and substance abuse, which, he noted, steal the happiness of many people, even in Papua New Guinea.

 "Let us remember that love is stronger than all this, and its beauty can heal the world," he said.

In this context, Pope Francis pointed to the example of Blessed Peter To Rot, a native of Papua New Guinea and martyr, who gave his life defending the unity of families.

 "He gave witness to love by word and example," the Pope reminded the faithful.

A legacy of goodness and joy

As many tourists leave Papua New Guinea admiring its natural beauty, Pope Francis urged the people to make their country known for something even greater—the goodness and love found in its people. 

"The most precious gift you can share with everyone is to make Papua New Guinea famous not only for its enchanting landscapes, but famous above all for the good people you meet here."

He closed his address with a special message to the children, whose "contagious smiles and exuberant joy" he said are the most beautiful images visitors will take away with them.

 Pope Francis then blessed the people and asked them to pray for him, assuring them of his continued prayers.

In his visit to Vanimo, the Pope's message of love, unity, and faith resonated with the people, leaving them with a renewed sense of hope and a commitment to continue beautifying their land, not only through nature, but through acts of charity and love.