Cardinal Ribat Confirms 43 at St Peter Chanel Parish Feast Day Mass

A total of 43 children received the Sacrament of Confirmation at St Peter Chanel Parish on 26 April 2026 in the Archdiocese of Port Moresby. The celebration also marked the parish feast day of St Peter Chanel making it a special occasion for the parish.

His Eminence Sir John Cardinal Ribat and the Parish Priest of St. Peter Chanel in a group picture with the children that received the Sacrament of Confirmation

A warm and welcoming atmosphere filled the church as His Eminence Cardinal Sir John Ribat MSC arrived as the main celebrant. The Parish Priest joined him as concelebrant, and together they presided over the Eucharistic celebration. Parishioners gathered in large numbers for this blessed day.

The Mass began with a beautiful entrance hymn led by the parish youth choir. Their singing created a prayerful atmosphere.

In his homily, he reflected, on the gospel of John 10:1-10, “Jesus as the Good Shepherd and the Gate”, Cardinal Ribat spoke about how Jesus cares for His people, guides them, and leads them to a full and meaningful life. He reminded the faithful that Jesus is the one who shows the right way and protects his people.

Cardinal Ribat getting ready to perform the Sacrament of Confirmation

He encouraged the parish community to value both the feast day and the Sacrament of Confirmation, saying it is a time of spiritual growth, renewal, and deeper commitment to God.

Speaking to parents, he reminded them that they are the first teachers and shepherds of their children in the faith and life as a whole. He urged them to guide their children well, especially in today’s uncertain world, and help them grow in God’s ways.

To the 43 candidates, His Eminence reminded them that Confirmation is an important step in their faith journey. He encouraged them that they have received the Holy Spirit and must remain strong in their Catholic faith. He urged them not to be easily influenced by the challenges of the world, but to remain faithful and live according to the teachings of the Church.

The Liturgy of the Word recited by the Parish Priest

The celebration was so meaningful because there is visible and active participation of parishioners. The Goilala group led the entrance hymn, the New Guinea Islands group led the offertory procession, and the Highlands group led the recessional. Their participation brought unity and life to the celebration.

It was a joyful and memorable day for St Peter Chanel Parish as they celebrated both the feast day and the Confirmation of 43 children.