CBC PNGSI Pays Tribute to Pope Francis

Korobosea: Today, the Catholic Bishops Conference of Papua New Guinea and Solomon Islands (CBC PNGSI) visited the Apostolic Nunciature of Papua New Guinea and Solomon Islands (Vatican Embassy) in Port Moresby to show deep sadness and appreciation for the life and leadership of Pope Francis.

Vice President of CBC His Lordship Bishop Rozario Menezes SMM giving his short talk before presenting a memorabilia of Pope Francis' visit to PNG last year from September 6 - 9 to Monsignor Federico Boni.

Led by CBC General Secretary, Fr Lawrence Arockiaraj, the team brought fresh food, store goods, and a pig as a traditional Melanesian way of showing respect to the Holy Father.

The tribute began with a convoy from the CBC office to the Apostolic Nunciature. A Western Highlands group from St John the Apostle parish, Tokarara, St Martin de Porres parish, Morata and Holy Name of Jesus parish Bomana, dressed in traditional attire led the way with traditional songs of mourning. Staff members followed, carrying the food and gifts as an offering of love and respect.

At the Nunciature, Bishop Otto Separy, President of CBC PNGSI, and Bishop Rozario Menezes, Vice President, gave speeches in front of Monsignor Federico Boni, the Secretary to the Apostolic Nuncio.

Bishop Otto said:

“On behalf of the Catholic Church in Papua New Guinea and Solomon Islands, we are very sad about the death of Pope Francis.The bishops, priests, religious brothers and sisters, lay people, and even those outside the Church feel this loss deeply.Pope Francis was a humble and loving leader. He cared for the poor, promoted peace, and showed great kindness.We thank God for the gift of his life. He inspired us to walk with the weak, care for the Earth, and live with joy and faith.We pray that God will give him eternal rest and bring comfort to the Church during this time of grief.”

After Bishop Otto’s address, Bishop Rozario spoke of the Pope’s kindness, saying he was a man close to the poor and the suffering. He also thanked him for visiting PNG and for his compassionate heart.

After his speech, Bishop Rozario presented a special gift to Fr Federico Boni. He explained that these memorabilia were originally meant to be sent to His Holiness, Pope Francis. But now, after the Pope’s passing, it is only right that the gift is sent to the Vatican in his memory.

The tribute ended with both bishops signing the condolence book at the Nunciature, leaving words of farewell and love from the people of Papua New Guinea and Solomon Islands.

Hauskrai procession