CBC Headquarters, Port Moresby:After serving two terms as the General Secretary of the Catholic Bishops Conference of Papua New Guinea and Solomon Islands (CBC PNGSI), Fr. Giorgio Licini from the congregation of the Pontifical Institute for Foreign Missions (PIME) has bid farewell to his role, marking the end of his tenure while moving next door to Caritas PNG for new endeavors.
The event was not a farewell but a special thank you to Fr. Giorgio for all the hard work, support, and dedication he gave to CBC. Some of his visible achievements include the transformation of CBC’s Head Office, Caritas PNG and the improvement Hospitality to name a few .
A luncheon was organized by CBC staff, attended by all the commissions of the organization. Along with staff, friends, fellow religious members, and other important guests came together to celebrate Fr. Giorgio’s service.
The day began with a thanks giving Mass led by Fr. Giorgio, along side his successor, Fr. Lawrence Arockiaraj, as well as Bishop Otto Separy of Bereina Diocese and Bishop John Bosco Auram of Kimbe Diocese as the con-celebrants.
To make the celebration even more special, a traditional sing-sing group from Rigo helped lead the procession, adding to the beauty of the Mass. The Scripture readings focused on love, friendship, and the importance of meaningful relationships, with the Gospel coming from the Book of Matthew.
In his homily, Fr. Giorgio reflected on the importance of friendship. He spoke about how Jesus valued true and lasting relationships, emphasizing the importance of being there for one another. He shared that friendship, like any important bond, requires commitment and care.
After the Mass, the thanksgiving luncheon was held, and all attendees gathered to share in the celebration. There were heartfelt speeches and emotional tributes from various commission representatives, who expressed their gratitude for Fr. Giorgio’s leadership.
During the luncheon, CBC commissions gave Fr. Giorgio gifts as a sign of appreciation. Bishop Otto Separy spoke on behalf of the Bishops, saying that the event was not just a farewell but a celebration of thanks for Fr. Giorgio’s service. Many CBC members and friends shared touching testimonies of how Fr. Giorgio had made a positive difference in the organization and their lives.
The event also featured lively entertainment from the Autonomous Region of Bougainville Bamboo Band, which helped lift everyone’s spirits despite the emotional nature of the occasion.
Fr. Giorgio Licini’s time at CBC PNGSI has left a lasting impact, and his dedication to the Church and its mission will always be remembered. His work will continue to inspire those who had the privilege of working alongside him.
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