Celebrating Vocational Sunday with His Excellency Bishop Joseph Durero at Holy Rosary Parish

The Eucharistic Celebration at Holy Rosary Parish on 26 April was presided over by His Excellency Bishop Joseph Durero, SVD, Bishop of the Diocese of Daru-Kiunga.

The celebration was vibrant and uplifting, marked by meaningful processions led by the youth of Holy Rosary Parish, the Central singsing group, and the lively participation of the Filipino community’s liturgy group.

In his homily, Bishop Durero reflected on Jesus as the Gate to salvation. Drawing from the Gospel, he cited the words of Christ in John 10:9, encouraging the faithful to firmly centre their lives on Jesus as the source of spiritual security. He cautioned against materialism, describing it as a “thief” that seeks to climb over the gate and rob people of their peace and joy.

The Bishop called on the faithful to repent and be baptised in order to fully belong to the family of God. He explained that many people build “doors” within their hearts and minds—doors that lead to sin and separation from God.

“Repent and be baptised in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Turn away from those doors you enter from time to time, and return to Jesus,” the Bishop said.

Acknowledging the challenges of Christian life, he reminded the faithful that the journey of faith is not without trials.

“The road is not easy,” he continued. “There are difficulties, persecutions, and challenges in our lives, just as there were in the days leading to the crucifixion of Jesus. Yet before all His suffering, He accepted the cross and did not retaliate. He continued the journey, because the cross leads to glory.”

His Excellency Bishop Joseph Durero reciting the opening praying.

Bishop Durero encouraged the faithful to remain steadfast in their Catholic way of life, especially in times of difficulty. He noted that such trials serve to purify and strengthen believers in their faith.

Referring to the conclusion of the Gospel, he reminded them of Jesus’ promise: “I came that they may have life, and have it abundantly” (John 10:10).

“This is the promise of the Lord,” the Bishop said. “Draw closer to Him. Embrace Him always in your lives, despite the challenges and struggles you encounter. As long as we remain in Him, He promises us abundant life. So remain in Him. Remain in God.”

He further urged the faithful to remain strong even in moments of testing.

“If you are being tested in any way, declare your confidence, even with the little faith you have,” he said. “Say to yourself: ‘I will not allow anything to climb over my door. I have Jesus in me.’”

In conclusion, Bishop Durero asked the faithful to pray for him, for all priests and religious sisters, and for an increase in vocations. He encouraged prayers for young people, that they may be open to God’s call and have the courage to respond generously to His plan for their lives.