The canonization of Blessed Peter ToRot is confirmed for Sunday, 19th October 2025, at St. Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City, and prominent Catholic leaders of Papua New Guinea (PNG) took time to reflect on what this significance occasion meant for Catholic faithful in the country. 

These leaders are His Eminence Sir John Cardinal Ribat, MSC, Archbishop of Port Moresby, Bishop Otto Separy, President of CBCPNGSI, Bishop Rozario Menezes, SMM, Vice President of CBCPNGSI, and Fr. Lawrence Arockiaraj, General Secretary of CBCPNGSI.

His Eminence Sir John Cardinal Ribat, MSC, highlighted the importance of the canonization, describing it as a pivotal moment for both the country and the Catholic Church globally.

He noted that Blessed Peter ToRot, a lay catechist who died for his faith, will become a saint of the universal Church.

Cardinal Ribat emphasized that this momentous occasion reflects the maturity of the Christian faith in Papua New Guinea and the Pacific region.

“The canonization of Blessed Peter ToRot reveals the universality of the Catholic Church and reminds us that holiness is not reserved for the extraordinary.”

“It can be lived each day in our families, workplaces, and communities.”

Bishop Rozario Menezes, SMM, underscored the role of Blessed Peter ToRot’s life as a witness to Christian marriage and family life.

He pointed out that the sanctity of marriage, particularly the bond between one husband and one wife, is increasingly under threat in today’s world.

The bishop highlighted that Blessed Peter ToRot’s official portrait, which depicts him holding two rings in his palms, serves as a powerful symbol of the protection of the sanctity of marriage.

He believes that the canonization will shine a global spotlight on the country and offer an example of strong family values to the world.

Bishop Otto Separy, President of CBCPNGSI, described the canonization as a significant milestone that would inspire Christians to live out their faith despite challenges.

“In today’s world, many external influences challenge our Catholic and Christian faith. Blessed Peter ToRot is an example for us all,” said Bishop Separy.

“He never compromised his faith, even in the face of persecution.”

Fr. Lawrence Arockiaraj, General Secretary of CBCPNGSI, presented the detailed canonization program, including the national celebrations that will accompany the event.

A delegation of approximately 17 bishops from Papua New Guinea and other countries will travel to Rome for the canonization ceremony, along with additional pilgrims from around the world.

In addition to the official ceremony in Rome, national celebrations will take place in dioceses across Papua New Guinea, particularly in the Archdiocese of Rabaul, the birthplace of Blessed Peter ToRot.

From 11–14 December 2025, daily Masses will be celebrated by bishops and clergy, including His Excellency Maurizio Bravi, Apostolic Nuncio to Papua New Guinea and the Solomon Islands, Cardinal Ribat, and Archbishop Rochus Tatamai MSC, Archbishop of the Archdiocese of Rabaul.

In recognition of the canonization, the Archdiocese of Port Moresby will hold a thanksgiving Mass on 26th October 2025, celebrating the elevation of Blessed Peter ToRot to sainthood.