A HUMBLE Papua New Guinean catechist from Rakunai in East New Britain Province is the first Pacific saint.
Canonised by Pope Leo XIV in the last hour, Peter To Rot was elevated to sainthood 80 years after he was murdered by Japanese troops towards the end of World War II.
More than 7000 people gathered at the Vatican to honour the PNG husband and father who bravely taught church catechism, organised worship and defend the dignity of marriage at the cost of his own life.
Japanese troops attempted to forge alliances with PNG chiefs towards the end of the war by allowing polygamous marriage. However, Peter To Rot spoke out against this and invoked the ire of the occupation forces.
This eventually led to his arrest and murder.
Archbishop Rochus Tatamai of Rabaul described the event in Vatican City as “far more than a Church celebration.”
“It will be a blessing for the whole country, reminding us that society itself depends on the strength of families, it’s a gift to our country as a national revolutionary that calls us to holiness that begins in the family and extends to the whole society,” Tatamai said.
“(To Rot) was known for humility, service to the poor, devotion to prayer, and respect for elders. He challenges every one of us to live lives of service and generosity, To Rot’s story offers practical guidance.”
Tatamai is a member of the Missionaries of the Sacred Heart, an order of the church in which Peter To Rot served as catechist and took over the pastoral duties of the local priest who was evacuated during the war.
A total of seven saints were canonized today which the Roman Catholic church observes as Mission Sunday.