Pope Francis left Papua New Guinea (PNG) with a strong message of harmony, peace, and conscientious resource management. The 87-year-old Pope’s remarks struck a profound chord in a country dealing with an increase in tribal violence, political unrest, and economic difficulties as he left for Dili, Timor Leste.

An appeal for appropriate resource management

Pope Francis praised the rich cultural and environmental variety of Papua New Guinea in his first speech to lawmakers and civil society. While recognizing the country’s abundance of natural resources, he underlined that it is morally right to manage them for the good of all Papua New Guineans.

“These are goods destined by God for the entire community,” the Pope stated. “Even if outside experts and large international companies must be involved in harnessing these resources, it is only right that the needs of local people are given due consideration when distributing the proceeds and employing workers, in order to improve their living conditions.”

The message arrived at a crucial moment and resonated with a significant number of PNG’s two million Catholics and others. The nation is dealing with soaring inflation, growing poverty, and political unpredictability due to an impending vote of no confidence in parliament.

A call to put an end to tribal violence

The most moving speech was perhaps given by Pope Francis, who made a sincere appeal for peace in the face of the rising tribal violence that has recently afflicted Papua New Guinea. The 48 participants in a peace mediation program from the Western Highlands were moved by his message.

“I appeal to everyone’s sense of responsibility to stop the spiral of violence and instead resolutely embark on the path that leads to fruitful cooperation for the benefit of all the people of the country,” the Pope encouraged.

Tribal wars have resulted in horrific mass killings over the last three years, profoundly impacting communities throughout Papua New Guinea. For many who have long hoped for an end to the carnage, the Pope’s exhortation to create a “climate of cooperation” was a ray of hope.

Unity and strengthened faith

The Pope’s visit has brought people together, particularly the devout who came from all over Papua New Guinea to take part in this momentous occasion. An estimated 6,000 people traveled from outlying locations to the capital; some even hiked the old World War II routes that Australian soldiers had constructed.

For the Papal mass on Sunday, Sir John Guise Stadium in Port Moresby saw an incredible 50,000 attendees. Foreign dignitaries and officials were seated with Prime Minister James Marape and Deputy Prime Minister John Rosso in the gathering. As Pope Francis drove around the stadium in his Popemobile, thousands of people were taking precious recordings and catching brief glances of their spiritual leader. The excitement in the stadium was evident.

The visit has changed the lives of many, including Clement Kapapal, the coordinator of a choir group. “I’m motivated. We must continue to be steadfast in our religion at this time,” Kapapal stated, echoing the opinions of a great number of people.

Motivating young people

Over 20,000 young people gathered to hear Pope Francis’ words of encouragement during one of the most captivating moments of his visit—a youth festival. The Pope admonished students to treat seniors with deference, rise to adversity bravely, and cultivate connections.

“We can make mistakes,” he continued, showing empathy for the young people. However, it is also a given that we must make our own corrections. We don’t stay down when we fall. It’s crucial that we stand back up.”

Many young Papua New Guineans seemed to connect with the counsel, which provided them with direction as they faced the difficulties of a world that was changing quickly.

A memorable farewell

Just before 11 a.m. PNG time, Pope Francis received a full guard of honor at Jacksons International Airport. With his departure, a profoundly important visit came to a conclusion, leaving people in Papua New Guinea with a fresh sense of purpose and optimism.

It was evident that the Pontiff’s message of peace, solidarity, and responsible leadership would stay in the hearts of Papua New Guineans long after his departure as the Air Niugini plane carrying him took off for Dili in Timor Leste.