Pope Francis has touched down in Papua New Guinea. The pontiff is undertaking his longest-ever overseas journey, aiming to reach Catholics in the most remote corners of the world and highlight a cause close to his heart: climate change.

The Pope’s three-day visit to the country will include time in the capital, Port Moresby, where he will meet with authorities, civil societies, and church leaders. He will also participate in Sunday mass before heading to the remote town of Vanimo to meet with Catholic missionaries.

Papua New Guinea is a vast and sprawling country of mountains, jungle, and rivers. Its population is estimated at 9 million to 17 million, and the Vatican estimates there are around 2.5 million Catholics in the country. The country has some of the world’s last uncontacted tribes.

Paul Morris, an emeritus professor of religious studies at Victoria University in Wellington, New Zealand, said this visit was part of the push to be a truly global church.

“In the last decade or so the popes have celebrated more distant communities,” he said.

Flags welcoming the Pope are fluttering through the capital Port Moresby and all the major intersections are decked out to celebrate his impending arrival. Merchandise including yellow T-shirts with a large image of the Pope and brightly coloured bucket hats are for sale.

“During the mass, we’ll also be having a traditional entrance procession as well as we have the official procession, which will be traditional dancers showcasing something from the cultural context of Papua New Guinea,” said Sr. Daisy Anne Lisania, spokesperson for the Catholic Church in Papua New Guinea.

A chair had been carved for the ageing pope to use during the Papal Mass to be held at a local football stadium.

Also Read: Phil Wickham Releases New Christmas Single