Bishop Dariusz Kaluza of Bougainville encourages congregation to reflect on life’s journey and immerse themselves in devotion to Mother Mary
- Jessica Oata
- 1 day ago
- 2 min read
Hahela, Bougainville: “As we celebrate the feast day of our parish, may we be elevated to seek the kingdom of God and not rely on our own understanding and strength and ways of this earth. May we have more time to reflect on our life’s journey so we too, can be favoured like our dear Mother Mary by God”
These were the encouraging words of His Lordship Bishop Dariusz Kaluza MSF on the celebration of the feast day of the Parish on August 17, 2025 at the Our Lady of the Assumption Cathedral, Hahela.
The actual feast day fell on Wednesday August 15 but was deferred to Sunday for all mass centers of the parish to come together and celebrate the big event.
Joining His Lordship as concelebrants was Fr Polycarp Kaviak, Vicar General, Fr James Mokela and Fr James Hapuak SM.
It was also a day of significance for Fr James Mokela who celebrated 25 years of priesthood and consecrated life.
Bishop Dariusz reflected on the snake that was mentioned in the Gospel saying that its purpose is to kill, steal, destroy and destract God’s people from living their out their faith.
“This snake can destroy everything in its way and it may come in the form of every challenge that we are facing today in the society but it will never touch us, it will never discourage us and destroy us if we immerse ourselves in devotion to our Mother Mary”
He concluded his homily by encouraging the congregation to strengthen their devotion to Mother Mary.
The beautiful choirs from the different mass centers added that special touch to the solemnity of the feast day.
The mass was followed by outside activities of feasting and item presentation that saw different mass centers and communities performing dances and giving their contributions toward the new Cathedral project.