Fr Michael Nguyen SVD - Dean of Good Shepherd Seminary, Fatima - Banz shares his reflection on the Holy Father's visit to Papua New Guinea:
(Fr Michael Nguyen SVD)
In September 2024, Pope Francis, as the representative of Christ, journeyed from Rome to Papua New Guinea (PNG) on a mission of peace and healing for the people of this island nation.
PNG is a land renowned for its cultural diversity, with over 800 languages and tribal traditions. While this diversity is a source of pride, it has also led to deep conflicts and divisions among tribes over generations. Pope Francis’ arrival, symbolizing unity and reconciliation, ignited hope in many hearts, as his message of love and peace transcends cultural boundaries.
From the moment Pope Francis set foot in PNG, the nation seemed to pause. His presence, marked by the profound inner peace of Christ, began to calm both external tensions and internal divisions. His mission to PNG is not only diplomatic, it was deeply spiritual. He brought a message of Christ’s healing power, which resonated with a nation deeply in need of reconciliation among its many tribes.
Pope Francis’ visit reminded Christians in PNG of Jesus’ core teachings: “Do not repay evil for evil” (Mt 5:38) and “Love your enemies” (v. 44). These challenging commands, embodied by the Pope’s presence, offered a path toward peace, where cycles of vengeance could be replaced by compassion and forgiveness.
In a country where tribal loyalty often dominates, Jesus’ message prompted deep reflection. His call to love even those who harm us, “Do not resist an evil person” (Mt 5:39), invited the people of PNG, particularly Christians, to adopt a new way of life. This shift, if embraced, holds the potential to reshape the nation’s future.
The Pope’s message of reconciliation and love extended beyond the Christian community. Religious leaders worldwide recognized the significance of his visit. A Muslim leader during Pope Francis’ visit Indonesia noted that Indonesia could serve as a model for “Interfaith Dialogue.” Similarly, Papua New Guinea, with its diverse population and shared challenges, could become a model for “Dialogue of Reconciliation,” which demonstrates how Jesus’ message of forgiveness and non-retaliation can heal even the most divided regions in the world.
As Pope Francis’ visit comes to an end, there is hope that the seeds of unity and love he has planted in PNG will continue to flourish. Jesus’ timeless message, “Love your enemies,” has shaped humanity for over 2,000 years. May this message continue to inspire PNG’s leaders and citizens for generations to come. Pope Francis’ visit is not just a fleeting moment of inspiration. The apostolic mission is a call to action, urging every citizen to build a future grounded in Christ’s love, where divisions are healed and peace reigns.
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