Apostolic Journey of Pope Francis to New Guinea
A delegation from the "United States of the World" took part in some moments of Pope Francis' apostolic journey to Papua New Guinea.
"It was a great emotion to see the Pontiff in the places where the Salesians of Don Bosco have brought joy and hope to young people - said Secretary-General Michele Capasso - and then the joy of seeing our ”Salesian bishop" dressed "like a worker": this is how the Pope greeted him, embracing him".
There were many moving moments: the meeting with the faithful in the diocese of Vanimo, the one in the Shrine of Maria Ausiliatrice, the one with the young people, the clergy, the Holy Mass...
And then the Pope's words:
"One of you asked me: ‘Why am I not like the others?’ I really only have one answer to this question and that is: ‘Because none of us is like the others: because we are all unique before God!’ Therefore, not only do I confirm that ‘there is hope for everyone’ - as has been said - but I also add that each one of us, in the world, has a role and a mission that no one else can fulfil and that this, even if it entails hardships, at the same time gives a sea of joy, in a different way for each person. Peace and joy is for everyone".
Since the middle of the 19th century, the mission here has never stopped: nuns, religious, catechists and lay missionaries have not stopped preaching the Word of God and offering help to their brothers and sisters, in pastoral care, education, health care and many other areas, facing many difficulties, in order to be an instrument ‘of peace and love’ for all. Thus churches, schools, hospitals and missionary centres bear witness around us that Christ came to bring salvation to all, so that each may flourish in all its beauty for the common good (cf. Apostolic Exhortation Evangelii gaudium, 182).
Again the Pope in his meeting with young people:
"Dear friends, many tourists, after visiting your country, return home saying that they have seen ‘paradise’. They generally refer to the scenic and environmental attractions they enjoyed. But we know that, as we have said, that is not the greatest treasure. There is another, more beautiful and fascinating one, which is found in your hearts and which manifests itself in the charity with which you love each other.
This is the most precious gift that you can share and make known to all, making Papua New Guinea famous not only for its variety of flora and fauna, its enchanting beaches and its clear sea, but also and above all for the good people you meet there; and I say this especially to you, children, with your contagious smiles and your bursting joy, which sprouts in every direction. You are the most beautiful image that those who leave here can take with them and keep in their hearts!".
