Priests in Lae Gather for Spiritual Recollection Under Bishop Rozario Menezes SMM

Lae, Papua New Guinea: In a heartfelt gathering at St. Michael's Parish, Bishop Rozario Menezes SMM convened a spiritual recollection for the priests of the Diocese of Lae. The day was dedicated to renewing the priests’ commitment to their sacred ministry and providing encouragement amid their pastoral challenges.

Group Picture taken after the mass...Photo by Fr Brian Nonde CMM

In his address during Mass, Bishop Rozario emphasized the essential role of bishops in shepherding not only the lay faithful but also their priests, ensuring their spiritual well-being as outlined in Christus Dominus, the Second Vatican Council’s Decree on the Pastoral Office of Bishops. “It is the duty of every Bishop to take care of the spiritual needs of his priests, who share in the bishop’s ministry for the care of souls,” the Bishop reminded the clergy.

Commending the priests for their tireless dedication, Bishop Rozario acknowledged the complexity and emotional weight of their daily ministry. “A day can start with Mass, then in between problems, then sad news, then joy and even perhaps end with sorrow, but we always have to be at work because God who called us somehow helps us to do this work each day,” he said, echoing the Church’s teaching on pastoral charity found in Presbyterorum Ordinis, the Decree on the Ministry and Life of Priests.

His Lordship Bishop Rozario Menezes SMM...Photo by Fr Brian Nonde CMM

The Bishop encouraged his priests to carry out their ministry with compassion and mercy, reflecting Christ’s own heart for the people. This aligns with the call in Pastores Dabo Vobis by Pope John Paul II, which highlights the priest’s role as a shepherd who is deeply united with the suffering and joys of his flock.

In a spirit of fraternity and renewal, Bishop Rozario warmly welcomed a new member to the diocesan presbyterate, Fr. Andre Mali SDV from Indonesia. The inclusion of priests from diverse backgrounds reflects the universal nature of the Church’s mission and the collaborative spirit emphasized in Lumen Gentium, the Dogmatic Constitution on the Church.

The day’s recollection provided an opportunity for the priests to deepen their spiritual lives and renew their pastoral zeal, strengthening the bonds between the bishop and his collaborators in the vineyard of the Lord.

Communion during mass...Photo by Fr Brian Nonde CMM