As Papua New Guinea prepares for a historic visit from Pope Francis in September 2024, incumbent Pacific Islands Forum Chair and Cook Islands Prime Minister Mark Brown has hinted that the event could extend beyond PNG’s borders, potentially involving leaders from across the Pacific.
Speaking on the upcoming visit, Brown shared, “I do recall that the Prime Minister of Papua New Guinea will be inviting Pacific Leaders to be part of this important Pacific event. We will await further advice from the Prime Minister of Papua New Guinea.”
The Papal visit is scheduled to begin on 06 September with a candlelight welcome for the Holy Father. Over the following days, the Pope will engage in a series of activities, including a street ministry and a gathering at Caritas Technical Secondary School, meetings with clergy at the Shrine of Mary Help of Christians in Boroko, and a Eucharistic celebration at Sir John Guise Stadium.
One of the highlights of the visit will be the Pope’s journey to Vanimo, a small but significant town on the north coast of PNG. The visit will conclude with a Youth Festival at Sir John Guise Stadium on 09 September.
Brown’s remarks suggest that the Papal visit could become a broader Pacific event, with regional leaders potentially joining in what is set to be a landmark occasion for the entire region.
As details unfold, the anticipation grows for what could be one of the most significant gatherings of Pacific leaders in recent history.
