Pope Francis inspires Missionaries in Papua New Guinea: Courage, presence, and growth in faithful service

In a heartfelt meeting at the Shrine of Mary Help of Christians, Pope Francis addressed bishops, priests, deacons, consecrated persons, seminarians, and catechists from Papua New Guinea and the Solomon Islands, encouraging them to continue their mission with courage, presence, and hope for growth. 

The Holy Father emphasized the importance of reaching out to those in the most remote and marginalized areas while remaining steadfast in their service.

Drawing inspiration from the shrine’s symbolism, Pope Francis highlighted three core elements of the Christian and missionary journey.

 He began by praising the "courage to begin" exhibited by the early missionaries who brought the Gospel to the region in the mid-19th century. 

Despite facing numerous challenges, they remained committed to their calling, setting the foundation for the thriving faith community that exists today.

"Missionaries arrived in this country at the middle of the nineteenth century, and the first steps of their ministry were not easy. Indeed, some attempts failed," 

Pope Francis remarked. "However, they did not give up; with great faith, apostolic zeal, and many sacrifices, they continued to preach the Gospel and serve their brothers and sisters."

Emphasizing the importance of presence 

Pope Francis then shifted his focus to the "beauty of being present," symbolized by the shrine’s presbytery, adorned with kina shells—a sign of prosperity. 

He reminded those gathered that their mission is to be present in the lives of those they serve, offering love and support, particularly to those who are marginalized or wounded by prejudice, superstition, or moral struggles.

"The Church desires especially to be close to these brothers and sisters, because in them Jesus is present in a special way," the Pope said, referencing the words of James and Sister Lorena, who had spoken of the Church’s work among the marginalized.

He also encouraged young people to embrace the beauty of mission work, noting that it is not about techniques or large events but about cultivating joy in being part of the Church. 

"By esteeming and respecting one another and putting ourselves at the service of one another, we can show everyone we meet how beautiful it is to follow Jesus together and proclaim his Gospel," Pope Francis added.

A vision of hope for growth 

The final aspect of the Pope’s message was "the hope of growing," symbolized by images in the shrine that depict the faith journeys of biblical figures like Abraham, Isaac, and Moses.

Pope Francis urged the faithful to remain patient and trust in the fruitfulness of their apostolate, even when it feels like progress is slow. 

He compared their work to sowing mustard seeds, which may seem small but, with God’s grace, will yield an abundant harvest.

"Let us continue to evangelize patiently, without allowing ourselves to be discouraged by difficulties or misunderstandings," Pope Francis said. "Saint Paul reminds us that the growth of what we sow is not our own work, but the Lord’s."

The Holy Father concluded his address by thanking the missionaries for their ongoing efforts to spread the Gospel and encouraging them to carry on their mission with courage, beauty, and hope.

 "Carry on your mission as witnesses of courage, beauty, and hope! I thank you for what you are doing, and I bless you all from my heart," he said, before asking the faithful to pray for him.

In this poignant meeting, Pope Francis left a message of resilience, faith, and hope, inspiring those dedicated to missionary work in Papua New Guinea and the Solomon Islands to continue their vital service with a renewed sense of purpose and commitment.