Maria Auxiliadora de Port Moresby
The shrine of Mary Auxiliary of Port Moresby, attended by the Salesians, is a reference point of the Church in Papua New Guinea: in it Pope Francis received the pastors of the country on September 7, 2024. The city also has the cathedral of Santa Maria, the seat of the archdiocese.
🌹 Wonders and anecdotes
- On September 7, 2024, Pope Francis visited the Salesian sanctuary and called it the "point of reference" of the local Church, built as "act of faith"; it was received by Cardinal John Ribat, the country's first cardinal.
- The Cathedral of Saint Mary, dedicated to the Blessed Virgin, was visited by John Paul II in May 1984.
- John Paul II returned in January 1995 and beatified in Port Moresby the martyr catechist Peter to Rot, killed during the Japanese occupation for defending Christian marriage.
- Peter To Rot was canonized on October 19, 2025 by Pope Leo XIV: the first saint of Papua New Guinea.
Maria Auxiliadora (Port Moresby)
Under the eyes of Mary Helper, Port Moresby has seen three papal visits and the path of his first saint. The Salesian sanctuary and the Cathedral of Santa Maria are the two Marian hearts of the capital.
Praise Mary, Mother of the Church in Oceania, pray for us.
Is the advocation of the Virgin Mary of your people missing?
Si no encuentras la advocación mariana de tu ciudad o pueblo, cuéntanosla: la investigaremos para ubicarla y darla a conocer en este mapa del amor de la Madre por el mundo.
Propose an apvocation →