CBCPNGSI opens 67th AGM with Solemn Eucharistic Celebration

Boroko - The Catholic Bishops Conference of Papua New Guinea and Solomon Islands formally opened its 67th Annual General Meeting (AGM) with a solemn Eucharistic celebration on April 21 at St. Joseph’s Parish, Boroko. 

From left to right: His Excellency Bishop Rozario Menezes, Vice president of CBCPNGSI, His Excellency Bishop Maurizio Bravi, Apostolic Nuncio to PNG and Solomon Islands, His Eminence Sir John Cardinal Ribat and His Excellency Bishop Otto Separy President of the CBCPNGSI

The liturgy was presided over by His Eminence Sir John Cardinal Ribat, alongside key Church leaders including His Excellency Most Reverend Maurizio Bravi, Apostolic Nuncio to PNG and Solomon Islands, Bishop Otto Separy President of the CBCPNGSI and Bishop Rozario Menezes, Vice president of CBCPNGSI. The celebration brought together bishops, clergy, religious men and women, conference staff, and a large number of the faithful.

The Eucharistic celebration was marked by vibrant singing and colourful processions, animated by the parish community, reflecting the rich liturgical life of the local Church 

In his homily, Cardinal Ribat drew inspiration from the witness of Saint Stephen and Saint Peter To Rot, urging the faithful to embrace authentic Christian living. He highlighted their unwavering faith and readiness to sacrifice their lives as a powerful example of discipleship.

A moment of spiritual guidance: His Eminence Sir John Cardinal Ribat delivering the homily at yesterday’s opening Mass for the PNGSI Bishops' AGM

“As Christians, our preaching, our witness to those we serve, the good works we do, and our presence among the people should lead them to Jesus,” he said 

Reflecting particularly on Saint Peter To Rot, Cardinal Ribat noted that Papua New Guinea is blessed by his example as a layman deeply devoted to the Eucharist and committed to living out Christ’s teachings, even in the face of persecution. He emphasised that Christians are called to act with courage and integrity, guided by a higher moral authority rather than fear of worldly powers. 

The Cardinal concluded by inviting prayers for the bishops as they begin their deliberations, for the Church in Papua New Guinea and the Solomon Islands, for Pope Leo XIV, and for world leaders, that they may always choose the path of peace. 

The 67th AGM of the CBCPNGSI will continue in Port Moresby from April 21 to May 1, with sessions taking place at the conference headquarters in Gordons.