ARCHBISHOP CLEMENT PAPA RECEIVES THE PALLIUM FROM POPE LEO XIV IN ROME

Rome, June 29, 2025 — In a moment of deep ecclesial significance and joy, Archbishop Clement Papa of Mount Hagen received the pallium from Pope Leo XIV during a solemn Mass at St. Peter’s Basilica on the Feast of Saints Peter and Paul, patrons of the universal Church.

Archbishop Clement Papa receives the pallium from Pope Leo XIV at St. Peter’s Basilica on June 29, 2025. (Photo: Vatican News)

The pallium — a white woolen band adorned with black crosses — symbolizes the Archbishop’s communion with the Holy Father and his role as a shepherd united with the successor of St. Peter in caring for the Church. Traditionally conferred upon newly appointed metropolitan archbishops, the pallium represents both authority and pastoral responsibility.

During the Mass, Pope Leo XIV blessed and presented the pallia to over 50 newly appointed metropolitan archbishops from around the world, including Archbishop Papa, who was appointed Metropolitan Archbishop of Mt Hagen earlier this year.

In his homily, the Pope reminded the archbishops of their mission: “The pallium is not a symbol of power but of service — of bearing Christ’s yoke with humility and love. Like Saints Peter and Paul, you are called to witness boldly and shepherd tenderly.”

Father Philemon Korake, a priest from the diocese of Lae, studying in Rome and who accompanied Archbishop Clement Papa for this significant event, said in a phone interview, “It was a very touching moment, and the Archbishop was well prepared. He met with the Holy Father’s Master of Ceremonies to do formalities with the oath, which was in Latin, on Saturday morning.”

“It was even special because out of many people, Father John Wai and I were blessed to be present on Sunday, Father Korake stated that it was a very symbolic moment  signifying the unity of the Church and closeness  of the Archbishop with the Holy Father.”

The liturgy, attended by thousands of pilgrims and dignitaries, included readings and prayers in multiple languages, reflecting the universal nature of the Church.

Archbishop Papa’s reception of the pallium marks a new chapter in his ministry, reaffirming his commitment to serve in communion with Rome and to lead the Archdiocese of Mount Hagen with fidelity, courage, and love.

 According to Vatican News, ‘From the United States to Peru, from Italy to the farthest reaches of the world — Papua New Guinea, Guam, New Caledonia, the group of 54 metropolitan Archbishops featured a rich diversity, and on each one’s shoulders the Pope personally placed the pallium, exchanging with each an embrace and a few words’