Prime Minister Hon. James Marape has warmly welcomed the canonisation of Blessed Peter To Rot, describing it as “a historic moment of pride, faith, and inspiration for Papua New Guinea and our people.”
Speaking after confirmation from the Vatican that Blessed Peter To Rot will be formally proclaimed a saint at a Mass of Canonisation in St Peter’s Basilica, Vatican City, Prime Minister Marape said the recognition is “a powerful affirmation of our Christian identity and the missionary spirit that has guided our country for generations.”
A Hero of Faith and Sacrifice
“Peter To Rot was not a priest, not a bishop, nor a leader of worldly power — he was an ordinary Papua New Guinean, a catechist, a father, and a husband who stood firm for truth and faith even in the face of death,” Prime Minister Marape said.
“He reminds us that faithfulness is the duty of every Christian — that holiness is not reserved for a few, but is within reach of every man and woman who lives with courage, compassion, and conviction. He lived the Gospel quietly and faithfully — and that is why today he is recognised by the Universal Church.”
The Prime Minister said To Rot’s martyrdom during the Second World War continues to resonate deeply with the moral fabric of the nation.
“His refusal to compromise his faith, his defence of marriage and family, and his courage to serve others despite persecution represent the very best of who we are as Papua New Guineans — a people of faith, family, and freedom.”
Gratitude to the Catholic Church and the Holy See
Prime Minister Marape expressed deep appreciation to the Catholic Church for shepherding the faith of Papua New Guineans over the past century and for guiding the cause of Peter To Rot’s canonisation.
“I thank the Catholic Church — from the smallest parish communities to the Bishops’ Conference — for carrying forward this mission of faith that has shaped the moral conscience of our nation,” he said.
“I especially thank the Holy See and His Holiness, the late Pope Francis, under whose pontificate the decree of canonisation was approved on 31 March 2025, paving the way for today’s celebration at the Vatican.”
He also paid tribute to the Missionaries of the Sacred Heart, the Archdiocese of Rabaul, and countless catechists, priests, and lay faithful who kept To Rot’s story alive.
“You have served not only your Church but your nation. Your work has brought international recognition to Papua New Guinea as a place where the faith took root deeply — and where an indigenous saint has now arisen.”
Call to Live His Legacy
Prime Minister Marape urged all Papua New Guineans — Catholic and non-Catholic alike — to embrace the values that defined Peter To Rot’s life. “As we celebrate his canonisation, let us remember that faith without action is empty. Peter To Rot’s faith was lived out in service — teaching children, counselling families, reconciling communities, and defending what was right even when it was unpopular.
“Our nation needs that same moral courage today — in public life, in politics, in business, and in our homes. Peter To Rot teaches us that integrity, humility, and love of neighbour are the foundation stones of true leadership.”
A National Celebration of Faith
Prime Minister Marape said the Government will work closely with the Catholic Bishops Conference of Papua New Guinea and Solomon Islands and provincial administrations — particularly East New Britain, where Peter To Rot was born — to ensure the canonisation is celebrated with dignity and national pride.
“This is not just a Catholic celebration — it is a Papua New Guinean celebration. It reminds us that God has not forgotten our nation. Out of the soil of our islands, from among our people, God has raised a saint.”
He encouraged schools, churches, and communities to share Peter To Rot’s story with young people.
“Our children should grow up knowing that sainthood is not distant — it has a Tolai face, a Papua New Guinean heart, and a spirit of service to God and community.”
A Moment of National Reflection
Prime Minister Marape concluded by urging the nation to mark the canonisation as a time of prayer and thanksgiving.
“Let this be a time to renew our faith in God, strengthen our families, and rebuild our communities in unity,” he said.
“We thank the Lord for giving us Blessed Peter To Rot — a humble catechist who now stands among the saints as the pride of Papua New Guinea and the Pacific.”