Pilgrims and Bishops from Papua New Guinea & Solomon Islands Arrive in Rome for Canonisation of Peter ToRot

Rome, Italy – October 18, 2025

Pilgrims and bishops from Papua New Guinea (PNG) and the Solomon Islands have arrived in Rome in anticipation of the much-awaited canonisation of Blessed Peter ToRot, the first martyr of Papua New Guinea, set to take place this Sunday. The historic event, which will see ToRot elevated to sainthood by the Catholic Church, has drawn a large contingent of faithful from across the Pacific and around the globe to the Vatican.

From L-R: Father Philemon Korake, Bishop Paul Sundu, Cardinal Ribat MSC, Bishop Jozef Rozynski SVD, Bishop Justin Soongie, Bishop Dariusz Kaluza, Bishop Anton Bal, and Archbishop Emeritus Francesco Panfilo SDB in the background.

Upon arrival in Rome, the pilgrims have joined thousands of others from different corners of the world, all converging at St. Peter's Square and the surrounding areas to celebrate this significant occasion. The atmosphere is one of great joy and anticipation as participants prepare for the solemn canonisation ceremony, which will be led by Pope Leo XlV.

At the forefront of the Vatican's preparations, the pictures of seven saints, including Peter ToRot, to be canonised this Sunday, are prominently displayed on the front wall of St. Peter's Basilica. These striking portraits serve as a visual tribute to the diverse and inspiring lives of those being elevated to sainthood, representing different cultures, countries, and spiritual legacies.

In addition to ToRot’s canonisation, the event underscores the universal nature of the Catholic faith, with people from every corner of the globe coming together to honour the lives of these remarkable men and women. The presence of bishops and pilgrims from PNG and the Solomon Islands is particularly significant, highlighting the deep-rooted Catholic tradition in the Pacific region.

For the people of PNG and the Solomon Islands, Peter ToRot’s canonisation is a monumental moment in their spiritual journey, commemorating the courage and unwavering faith of a man who stood firm in his beliefs, even in the face of persecution. Blessed Peter ToRot was executed by the Japanese during World War II for his role in leading the Catholic community in Papua New Guinea. His legacy as a martyr and symbol of resilience has made a profound impact on the Catholic Church and the faithful worldwide.

As pilgrims gather in Rome to witness this historic event, many are reflecting on the significance of ToRot’s sainthood, while also celebrating the strength and unity of the global Catholic community. The canonisation ceremony is expected to attract a vast crowd, with thousands of faithful expected to fill St. Peter’s Square, eagerly awaiting the moment when Peter ToRot is officially declared a saint.

The festivities will continue through the weekend, with special Masses and prayers held across Rome in tribute to the new saints, culminating in the canonisation Mass on Sunday.

As the pilgrims from Papua New Guinea, the Solomon Islands, and beyond gather to celebrate this momentous occasion, the canonisation of Peter ToRot serves as a powerful reminder of the enduring faith, sacrifice, and global unity within the Catholic Church.

Pictures Courtesy - Bishop Jozef Roszynski SVD Diocese of Wewak PNG