Faith, Fellowship, and Ministry: Cardinal Sir John Ribat’s Thanksgiving Mass Homily and the CCHS National Conference
Day One of the CCHS National Conference
On Tuesday, 20th October 2026, delegates gathered in Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea, for Day One of the 3rd Catholic Church Health Services (CCHS) National Conference and 10th Anniversary Celebration under the theme of "Care & Compassion". Following the morning opening ceremony at the Crown Hotel and the launching of the new Catholic Health Information System (CHIS) database, conference participants proceeded to St. Mary’s Cathedral at 11:00 AM for a solemn Thanksgiving Mass.
The Mass was celebrated by His Eminence Sir John Cardinal Ribat of the Archdiocese of Port Moresby. His homily provided a spiritual anchor for the conference, re-orienting administrative and clinical discussions toward the core Christian mission of healthcare.
Presiding Clergy and Concelebrating Bishops
Joining Cardinal Ribat at the altar to preside over the Thanksgiving Mass were bishops representing dioceses across Papua New Guinea.
His Excellency, The Most Reverend Francis Meli — Bishop of the Diocese of Vanimo
His Excellency, The Most Reverend Donald Francis Lippert — Bishop of the Diocese of Mendi
His Excellency, The Most Reverend Anton Bal — Archbishop of the Archdiocese of Madang
His Excellency, The Most Reverend Otto Separy — Bishop of the Diocese of Bereina
His Excellency, The Most Reverend Siby Mathew — Bishop of the Diocese of Aitape
His Excellency, The Most Reverend Józef Roszyński, S.V.D. — Bishop of the Diocese of Wewak
His Excellency, The Most Reverend Walenty Gryk, S.V.D. — Bishop of the Diocese of Wewak
His Excellency, The Most Reverend Joseph Tarife — Bishop of the Diocese of Durero Daru-Kiunga
Their presence underscored the deep unity across all regions and dioceses of the Catholic Church in supporting national health ministry.
Grounding Healthcare in the Church’s Spiritual Identity
Cardinal Ribat reminded all present that Catholic Church Health Services is fundamentally a ministry born of the Church's faith and spiritual calling. He stressed that CCHS is not merely an external healthcare agency, but a direct expression of the Church serving the community.
In his message, the Cardinal emphasized the necessity of protecting the core identity of Catholic health services. He cautioned that the ministry must not be forced or overwhelmed by external voices, political agendas, or outside commercial interests. Instead, the service must remain firmly rooted in the example and teachings of Jesus Christ, which must continue to guide CCHS into the future.
A Sacred Duty to Serve the Human Person
Reflecting on the purpose of health ministry, Cardinal Ribat described Catholic healthcare as both a "duty and a right". He highlighted that all services offered by CCHS are dedicated directly to the human person, affirming the sanctity and dignity of every individual.
The Mass was an opportunity to give thanks for CCHS's ongoing journey and leadership. Cardinal Ribat expressed appreciation for those who have stood by the mission over the years, noting that serving humanity in health is a key contribution toward building the nation and advancing the Kingdom of God.
Strength from the Holy Spirit to Serve Rural and Remote Communities
Acknowledging the daunting realities of healthcare delivery across Papua New Guinea, Cardinal Ribat spoke of the courage, inspiration, and strength imparted by the Holy Spirit. He paid tribute to health staff who travel to isolated villages, island outposts, and remote communities.
Despite the logistical challenges, difficult conditions, and risks involved, he emphasized that CCHS workers bring vital health, security, and hope to families and young people where government or commercial services may struggle to reach.
Building Faith, Hearts, and Unity for the Future
Concluding his reflection, Cardinal Ribat called on conference participants and health leaders to carry forward this spirit of thanksgiving and commitment. He reminded the congregation that lasting progress is built "right in our minds and in our hearts". By remaining united in faith and fellowship, CCHS can continue to strengthen its partnership with national and provincial authorities while delivering compassionate care across Papua New Guinea.
Following the liturgy, Sister Jadwiga Faliszek (SSpS), National Health Secretary and Chief Executive Officer of CCHS in Papua New Guinea, delivered heartfelt opening and closing remarks at the Mass.
Sr. Jadwiga extended her sincere gratitude to CCHS staff and health workers from all attending dioceses for their tireless commitment, hard work, and sacrificial service in reaching underserved communities. She thanked Cardinal Sir John Ribat, Archbishop Anton Bal, and all concelebrating bishops for gathering at St. Mary's Cathedral to preside over the sacred celebration and bless the conference delegates. Sr. Jadwiga offered special commendation and thanks to Fr. Lawrence Arockiaraj, Secretary General of the Catholic Bishops Conference of Papua New Guinea and Solomon Islands (CBCPNGSI). She recognized his steadfast leadership and guidance to CCHS over the past ten years of independent operation, as well as his vital support in organizing this landmark 3rd National Conference and 10th Anniversary celebration.
The Thanksgiving Mass at St. Mary’s Cathedral provided a profound spiritual grounding for the 2026 CCHS 3rd National Conference. As delegates transitioned into three days of strategic discussions, digital health innovations, and policy planning, the combined words of Cardinal Ribat, the concelebrating bishops, and Sr. Jadwiga Faliszek served as a powerful reminder that at the heart of every technological and administrative advancement lies a sacred commitment to care and compassion for the human person.
Comments