Thursday 16 May 2024
Bishop Rozario Menezes, S.M.M. of Lae Diocese and Chairperson – Papal Visit Committee.
The Papal Visit Committee with the Catholic Bishops Conference (CBC), in Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea, launched its logo and website on Tuesday, 14 May, marking an important step in preparation for Pope Francis’s upcoming visit to the country in September 2024.
The logo, designed by Fr. Tomas Ravaoli of the Liturgical Catechetical Institute in Goroka, Eastern Highlands Province, holds special significance.
Bishop of Lae Diocese and Papal Visit Committee Chairperson, Rozario Menezes explained that the logo and website were not merely for show, but rather to reflect the Pope’s purposeful visit.
Bishop Menezes described the logo, highlighting its three key elements: a cross, a bird of paradise, and the theme ‘pray’.
“The cross reminds us that Pope Francis comes in the name of Jesus, representing him on Earth,” Bishop Menezes said.
He emphasized the importance of the cross as a symbol of sacrifice, salvation, and glory, referencing the book of Galatians 6:14.
“The colors of the cross reflect the breathtaking sunrises and sunsets of our country,” Bishop Menezes added.
The second element, the bird of paradise, represents Papua New Guinea itself. Menezes explained that the bird of paradise symbolizes the unique beauty and spirit of the country.
The third element, the word ‘pray’, draws from Luke 11:1, where Jesus’s disciples asked him to teach them how to pray.
“With these three elements, we invite Pope Francis, our leader and spiritual father, to come and pray with us, to inspire us to pray for our families, communities, and countries,” he said.
The launch of the website is very important, as it allows attendees from the 19 archdioceses in Papua New Guinea, including the Solomon Islands, to register and confirm their attendance for the papal visit.
Bishop Menezes also disclosed that a Vatican team is expected to arrive in the country next month to oversee preparations and set a tentative program for the visit.
The Catholic Bishops Conference of Papua New Guinea and Solomon Islands is working closely with the PNG government to ensure the success of the papal visit.
The logo and website launch mark an important milestone as Papua New Guinea prepares to welcome Pope Francis in September.
The visit is eagerly anticipated by both the Catholic community and the nation as a whole.
It is seen not only as a state visit but also as a religious event, as Pope Francis is the leader of the Catholic Church worldwide.
Pope Francis will have a busy schedule during his stay, including meetings with the Governor General, diplomats, and other important leaders.
He will also spend time with children and disabled people cared for by the Catholic Diocese and various organizations.
On September 8, the Pope will lead a special religious ceremony at John Guise Stadium, followed by a short visit to Sandaun Province in Vanimo.
The visit will conclude on September 9 with a big event for young people at Sir John Guise Stadium, along with a meeting with Catholic professionals.
More details about the Pope’s visit will be provided closer to the time, ensuring a memorable and meaningful visit for all involved.
