Nation celebrates life of Grand Chief

Catholic Professionals Society of PNG

“A Light and a Voice of Catholic Faith”

Statement by the Catholic Professionals Society of Papua New Guinea

On the Passing of Grand Chief Sir Michael Thomas Somare

26 February 2021

The Catholic Professionals Society of Papua New Guinea joins the family, the people of East Sepik Province, PNG, the Pacific and the world to mourn the passing and celebrate the life of Grand Chief Sir Michael Thomas Somare, the founding father and first Prime Minister of Papua New Guinea. The society assures Lady Veronica and the family of its closeness and prayers at this time of grief and sorrow for them and our nation.

Grand Chief Sir Michael Somare, we convey our greatest respects and prayers as we mourn and celebrate your life with the rest of PNG.

Sir Michael Somare was both a national icon and an international statesman who led our thousand tribes from colonialism to nationhood as a member of the National Parliament, Chief Minister and Prime Minister of our great nation for over 40 years. In the Pacific Region he was a role model for Melanesian Leadership and Pacific Brotherhood. His legacy will live on for generations to come in Melanesia and the Pacific. We salute you.

Sir Michael Somare was the epitome of a faithful husband and a loving father who drew inspiration and strength from his Catholic Faith. The Catholic Professionals Society acknowledges in humility that Sir Michael Somare was a founding and lifetime member of the Society. His life reflected the Society’s aspirations about the sovereignty of God, dignity of every human being, family life, and servant leadership among others.

With St Paul, Grand Chief Sir Michael can now say, “I have fought a good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Now there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness with which the Lord, the just judge, will reward me on that day …” 2 Tim 4: 7-8

And may Jesus’ assurance of eternal life be also for him, “I am the resurrection and the life. Those who believe in me will live, even though they die.” John 11:25a.

May His Soul Rest in God’s Eternal Peace.

Authorised by:

Paul Harricknen, OL

President of Catholic Professionals Society of PNG