Bishop Jacek Tendej's Humble Reflection and Words of Gratitude Following His Episcopal Ordination

On the occasion of his episcopal ordination, Bishop Jacek Tendej took the opportunity to express heartfelt gratitude to God, the Church, and all those who have supported him throughout his journey in faith and service. His words, filled with humility and reverence, underscored the providential nature of his path, which has led him to this significant moment in his life.

A Call to Serve in the Land of the Unexpected

Bishop Tendej began his speech by thanking God in the Holy Trinity for preparing him for what he called "a great providential surprise." Reflecting on the unexpected turn his life took when he received an email from Father Gregory at the age of 50, Bishop Tendej shared his initial shock and trepidation at the invitation to serve as the rector in Papua New Guinea. At that time, he had never anticipated such a call, as he was not thinking of moving to a mission field at this stage of his life.

“I didn’t know what to do with this," he said. "But I was spending so much time in the chapel. And one day, I received the answer from the Holy Spirit to go.”

The email, which he described as mysterious, contained the invitation to lead the Holy Spirit Seminary in Papua New Guinea. It was a challenge, but Bishop Tendej listened to the call and took a leap of faith, moving to a land he had never imagined, embracing the mission of service and education. His time in Papua New Guinea was marked by moments of both struggle and great satisfaction, as he saw firsthand the extraordinary blessings that come with serving in missionary lands.

The Pope's words resonated deeply with him during this time: “Those who do not go to new challenges become sick. Those who go to new challenges may face accidents, but a thousand times, it is preferred to face an accident than sickness.” He reflected that this message from Pope Francis was undoubtedly a sign from the Holy Spirit to embrace the mission.

Embracing Humble Service and Following Christ's Example

A key theme in Bishop Tendej’s speech was his priestly motto, drawn from Galatians 5:13: “Serve one another with humble love.” He emphasized that his motto, now simplified to “serve with love,” continues to guide him as he embraces his new role as a bishop.

Bishop Tendej explained the symbolism behind the elements that represent his episcopal identity. Central to his mission is the Eucharist, which he described as the "center of our life" — the real presence of Jesus that sustains and energizes all who partake in it. The symbols of the host and chalice, he noted, remind us of Jesus' sacrifice and service, especially His act of washing the feet of His apostles, which exemplified humble service.

He also spoke of the jug, bowl, and towel, symbols of Jesus’ service, and the importance of following His example, particularly in serving those in need. He cited Saint Vincent de Paul, who taught that sometimes we must "leave Jesus in the tabernacle to meet Him in the real men of the poor."

Gratitude and Acknowledgments

As the new Bishop of Alotau, Bishop Tendej extended his deep gratitude to a wide range of individuals and groups who have supported him. He began with a special acknowledgment to Bishop Rolando Santos, his predecessor, expressing sincere thanks for his prayerful guidance and the smooth transition of leadership in the Diocese of Alotau.

Bishop Tendej also expressed his appreciation for his co-consecrators, particularly Cardinal Sir John Ribat, the former Archbishop of Port Moresby, who had been a significant mentor and source of support during his tenure as rector of the seminary in Papua New Guinea. He fondly recalled how Cardinal Ribat helped him during his first days as a rector, guiding him through the challenges of seminary life.

Gratitude was also extended to the Apostolic Nuncio to Papua New Guinea and Solomon Islands, Archbishop Maurizio Bravi, for his role in communicating the appointment and encouraging Bishop Tendej as he prepared for his new responsibilities. He also thanked the many bishops and archbishops of Papua New Guinea who attended his ordination, including Bishop Otto Separy, President of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Papua New Guinea, and others from across the region.

Honoring Family and Friends

In his closing remarks, Bishop Tendej acknowledged the deep support of his family, especially his mother, Sofia, whose prayerful presence accompanied him throughout his journey. He also paid tribute to his late father, Jan, who passed away the previous year, and thanked his sister, Beata, and other relatives for their unwavering love and encouragement.

His gratitude extended to the many religious sisters, seminarians, and priests who had supported him, both in his seminary days and in his mission work. He also thanked the representatives of the local government and the community for their presence and participation in the celebration, underscoring the unity between the Church and the wider society in fulfilling the mission of the Gospel.

A Future of Service and Humble Dedication

In conclusion, Bishop Tendej expressed his deep gratitude to all those who helped prepare for the ordination ceremony, both logistically and spiritually. He acknowledged the hard work and sacrifice of many who ensured that the event was a beautiful and meaningful celebration.

“I am grateful to be here with you today," he said. "This is your merit, your help, that I have come to this point. Thank you very much.”

Bishop Tendej’s words were not only a reflection of his deep faith but also an invitation to all to embrace the call to serve with humility, to seek the guidance of the Holy Spirit, and to follow the example of Christ in all aspects of life. As he embarks on this new chapter in his mission to lead the Diocese of Alotau, his message of service, love, and gratitude will undoubtedly continue to inspire all those who hear it.

May God bless him in this new phase of his ministry.