New Portrait of Blessed Peter To Rot Unveiled by Renowned Spanish Artist Raul Bersoza Fernandez

Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea: A powerful new portrait of Blessed Peter To Rot, Papua New Guinea’s beloved martyr and national hero, was unveiled over the weekend, drawing admiration for its depth, realism, and profound symbolism. The artwork was created by internationally acclaimed Spanish painter Raul Bersoza Fernandez and commissioned by Fr. Tomas Ravaioli, IVE, Vice-Postulator for the Cause of Canonization.

Blessed Peter ToRot...Picture by Fr Tomas Ravaioli IVE

Raul Bersoza Fernandez, a master of theological realism, is known globally for his religious artworks, which grace churches on five continents. His past commissions include works for both Pope Benedict XVI and Pope Francis. With a reputation for vivid naturalism and deeply spiritual compositions, Bersoza’s latest piece pays tribute to the courage and sanctity of Blessed Peter To Rot, who was martyred during World War II for defending the Christian faith and the sanctity of marriage.

The portrait, based on the only known photograph of To Rot, presents a striking and faithful representation of the young catechist. While the image may be unfamiliar to some due to the rarity of the original photo, the likeness is believed to be the most accurate portrayal of To Rot ever produced.

Key elements in the portrait carry deep theological and historical meaning:

·       The Bible in his right hand underscores To Rot’s dedication to the Word of God. Daily nourished by Scripture and the Eucharist, he drew strength from these spiritual sources in the face of persecution. The inclusion reflects the Church Father St. Jerome’s teaching: “Ignorance of Scripture is ignorance of Christ.”

·       The wedding rings on his left hand symbolize his ultimate sacrifice in defense of Christian marriage. To Rot was arrested and eventually martyred for opposing polygamy and upholding the sacramental union between one man and one woman.

·       The catechist’s cross, prominently displayed on his chest and laplap, was a powerful sign of his unyielding faith. During wartime, many catechists hid these crosses for fear of Japanese retribution. To Rot, however, proudly wore his, even requesting the crucifix from home before his execution. His parting words to his wife Paula were, “Bring me the catechist’s crucifix from home.”

The unveiling of the portrait marks not only an artistic achievement but also a renewed celebration of To Rot’s legacy. As his face becomes more widely recognized around the world, it stands as a powerful testament to the faith and resilience of Papua New Guinea’s people.

“Without a doubt,” said one local observer, “the face of Peter To Rot will become the most widely recognized face from Papua New Guinea around the world. We should be proud that a son of our land has gained such renown through his fidelity to Christ.”

The portrait is expected to inspire the faithful both locally and internationally as the celebration for Blessed Peter To Rot’s canonization draws near.