Good Shepherds Build Strong Nations and Families: Bishop Peter Houhou Celebrates Mass at Sabama

On Sunday, April 26, 2026, the faithful of Mary Help of Christians Parish gathered in a spirit of communion to celebrate the Holy Eucharist.

The Mass, which commenced at 9:30 a.m., was presided over by His Excellency Peter Houhou, Bishop of the Diocese of Gizo. Concelebrating with him were Fr. Savio Angelo Sanchez, SDB, Parish Priest, and Fr. Gregorio Bicomong Jr., SDB, Provincial Superior of the Salesians of Don Bosco in Papua New Guinea and the Solomon Islands.

His Excellency Bishop Peter Houhou during his homily

In his homily, Bishop Houhou highlighted three significant themes of the celebration: the Fourth Sunday of Easter, Good Shepherd Sunday, and Vocations Sunday. He explained that the Good Shepherd is characterized by wisdom, and that Jesus Christ remains the perfect model of this role.

Reflecting on the First Reading from the Acts of the Apostles, the Bishop spoke of the courage of Saint Peter at Pentecost. He described Peter’s proclamation as “like a sword that pierces the hearts of the people,” leading many to repentance and baptism. Through this, he reminded the faithful that the Holy Spirit empowers believers to carry out their mission faithfully within their communities.

Turning to the theme of the domestic Church, the Bishop emphasized the vital role of the family. He called on parents to imitate Christ in their daily lives, especially in their responsibility as shepherds within the home.

Catholic faithful receiving the Holy Eucharist from His Excellency Bishop Peter Houhou and Fr. Gregorio Bicomong

“In our families, parents must take on the role of the Good Shepherd,” he urged. “If parents do not live as good shepherds, the children in the family may be led astray.”

He further noted that the strength and stability of the family are directly linked to the well-being of society, affirming that faithful parenting forms responsible Christians and contributes to the good of both Papua New Guinea and the Solomon Islands.

In his concluding reflection on the Gospel, Bishop Houhou reminded the faithful that Jesus is “the way, the truth, and the life.” Speaking from his own pastoral mission, he shared, “I must look to Jesus as my model in order to be a good shepherd and lead the people entrusted to me in Gizo.”

He concluded by emphasizing that whether one is a bishop, priest, or parent, true leadership requires remaining close to the people, especially in times of difficulty. He encouraged all present to carry this message in their hearts as they continue their journey of faith toward the Kingdom of God.