Kerema: Taking int account the work of Catechists of the Catholic Church, Hi Lordship Bishop Pedro Baquero sbd rendered a special blessing upon Mr David Puaka during a thanksgiving mass for his long service to the Catholic Diocese of Kerema serving as a Catechist on March 31, 2024.
Group picture with Catechist David Puaka (standing between Fr Paul and Fr Eugene)
The Holy Eucharist commenced with singing and dancing with an emotional atmosphere. Leading the choir was St Jude SCC (Small Christian Community) and Diocesan Coordinator for Catechists Fr Paul Lokunume was the main celebrant with Parish Priest Fr Eugene Karava as the con-celebrant.
Present to witness the bittersweet occasion was Mrs Josephine Puaka (wife of Mr David Puaka), friends, family members, prayer leaders, communion ministers, a few religious and fellow catechists.
The peak of the joyous and emotional moment was Fr Paul handed down the Recognition and Appreciation certificate and blessings upon God’s faithful servant after 50 years of service as a catechist.
Reflecting on the Gospel in his homily, Fr Eugene highlighted the life journey of David as a servant of God in the Diocese.
“Mr David Puaka has helped many prayer leaders who are now catechists in their parishes in the diocese and through his commitment, trust and hope in God, let us strive forward and follow Puaka’s footsteps by living on prayer through sickness and in health”.
The liturgy was well prepared by the youth of St Jude SCC with joyful voices packed with emotion that brought tears to the eyes of those present.
Following the thanksgiving mass was presentation of gifts and heartfelt speeches from brother catechists and a special message from His Lordship Bishop Pedro Baquero SDB delivered by Fr Paul Lokunume.
“Heartfelt gratitude goes to the family of Mr David Puaka, especially his wife and children who have supported him throughout these years as someone who played an important role in assisting the religious in providing spiritual accompaniment to the Catholic Church of Kerema Diocese”.
Puaka became a Catechist after attending Catechist training at Sivarai Namona outside Port Moresby in 1974 and retired this year (2024). He received recognition from Bishop Pedro Baquero SDB for his service to the Church.