Peter ToRot Canonized as Papua New Guinea’s First Saint

In a historic moment for the Church in Papua New Guinea, Blessed Peter ToRot was canonized yesterday on October 19, 2025 by Pope Leo XIV during a solemn Mass in St. Peter’s Square.

The canonization mass, which began yesterday at 10:00 a.m. Rome time (6:00 p.m. in Papua New Guinea), drew thousands of pilgrims from around the world and marked the first time a Papua New Guinean has been officially declared a saint of the Catholic Church.

Peter ToRot, a lay catechist and martyr, gave his life in 1945 during the Japanese occupation of Papua New Guinea, standing firm in his defense of Christian marriage and moral truth. His witness of faith and courage has long been venerated in the region and is now recognized universally by the Church.

Among the many bishops and cardinals concelebrating the Mass with the Holy Father was His Eminence Sir John Cardinal Ribat MSC, Archbishop of Port Moresby who recited the Eucharistic Prayer. His participation added a deeply personal and prayerful presence from Papua New Guinea at the altar. His role in the celebration reflected the pride and gratitude of the nation for this historic recognition.

In addition, Pope Leo XIV reflected on Jesus’ question in the Gospel of Luke, “When the Son of Man comes, will He find faith on earth?” The Holy Father praised the seven new saints, including Peter ToRot, for their steadfast faith and courage in the face of adversity.

“These men and women kept the lamp of faith burning,” the Pope said. “They became lights in the world, spreading the love of Christ through their words and actions.”

The Pope reminded the faithful that while the world treasures material and cultural wealth, true meaning is found in faith, a faith that sustains hope and gives life its ultimate purpose. He encouraged all believers to embrace prayer as “the breath of the soul” and to remain faithful, especially in times of difficulty.

While this occasion is happening in Rome, celebrations erupted across Papua New Guinea as dioceses of PNG held Masses and gatherings in honor of our new saint. Many reflected on St. Peter ToRot’s legacy as a humble servant of the Gospel who lived and died for his faith.

The Catholic Bishops Conference of Papua New Guinea and Solomon Islands expressed joy and gratitude for the canonization and encouraged all Catholics to follow Saint Peter ToRot’s example of deep faith, courage, and devotion to Christ.