Wabag, Papua New Guinea – The Catholic community in Papua New Guinea is mourning the death of His Lordship, Bishop Arnold Orowae, who passed away on the 27th of December, 2024, at Wabag General Hospital. A pioneer in the Catholic Church, Bishop Orowae was the first local Bishop of the Highlands Region of Papua New Guinea, leaving behind a legacy of faith and leadership.
The funeral for the late Bishop took place on Saturday, the 4th of January, 2025.
Preparations for the funeral and the traditional 'Haus Krai' were being led by His Lordship Bishop Justin Ain Soongie, the Auxiliary Bishop of Wabag. The 'Haus Krai,' a customary Highlands tradition of mourning, has brought together parishioners, clergy, and visitors from across the nation to Wabag to pay their respects and share in the grief of the Diocese of Wabag.
His Grace, Archbishop Douglas Young, SVD, of the Metropolitan Archdiocese of Mt. Hagen, has demonstrated solidarity with the Diocese of Wabag by traveling to the 'Haus Krai' on January 3rd. The delegation from Mt. Hagen carried contributions of K10,100 in cash, pigs, and garden food, embodying the Highlands’ tradition of communal support during times of mourning. Leading the visiting team was Coadjutor Archbishop of Mt. Hagen, Clement Papa.
In addition to the Archdiocese of Mt. Hagen, neighboring dioceses have also come forward with monetary donations and food supplies to support the Diocese of Wabag. This collective act of generosity reflects the deep-rooted cultural traditions of the Highlands people, who unite in support during moments of loss and sorrow.
The death of Bishop Orowae has deeply touched the faithful, with many recalling his unwavering commitment to the Church and his pioneering role as a spiritual leader in the Highlands Region. Parishioners and clergy alike have described him as a man of humility, wisdom, and dedication to the Gospel.
The Diocese of Wabag, under the leadership of Bishop Orowae, witnessed tremendous growth and spiritual enrichment, making his loss profoundly felt by the Catholic community. As the faithful gather to bid farewell, they celebrate his remarkable contributions to the Church and pray for the eternal repose of his soul.
Bishop Orowae’s life and legacy is a solemn reminder of the unity and strength of the Catholic community in Papua New Guinea, rooted in faith, culture, and the shared mission to spread the love of Christ.
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