Fr Paul Sireh O.Carm reflects on a day of grace in St Peter’s Square
“It was a joyous and jubilant moment for all of us,” said Fr Paul Sireh O.Carm, who travelled to Rome to witness the canonisation of Papua New Guinea’s first saint, Peter To Rot. “It was a God-touching moment as the proclamation was made. After thirty years, this special pronouncement has finally come to life.”
Standing in St Peter’s Square among tens of thousands of pilgrims, Fr Paul described a deeply moving celebration of faith and unity. “I was privileged to be among about 300 priests distributing Holy Communion to over 20,000 people. We had front seats with a clear view of the entire liturgy. The intercessions were prayed in many languages – and to hear our own Tok Pisin, the national language of Papua New Guinea, brought tears to our eyes.”
Around 200 Papua New Guineans, including 17 bishops, a cardinal and 30 priests, travelled for the canonisation, joined by about 20 pilgrims from Australia. “Our pilgrims enjoyed every moment with tears of joy,” Fr Paul shared. “It was a moment of pride, of unity, and of deep gratitude to God.”
Following the Mass, the pilgrims will continue their pilgrimage to Assisi, walking in the footsteps of St Francis. “I have been privileged to celebrate Mass in several great basilicas,” Fr Paul said. “At St Mary Major, where Pope Francis is entombed, and tomorrow I will celebrate Mass at the Basilica of St Francis in Assisi. Such blessings are beyond words.”
Born in 1912 on the island of New Britain, St Peter To Rot was a devoted lay catechist who served with unwavering faith during the Japanese occupation of World War II. When foreign missionaries were imprisoned, Peter courageously led prayer gatherings, baptised, visited the sick, and secretly brought Holy Communion to the dying. He defended Christian marriage and opposed polygamy, actions that led to his arrest and martyrdom in 1945. His simple fidelity to Christ and steadfast love for his community made him a light for his people and a true witness of the Gospel.
For the Carmelites, St Peter To Rot’s life radiates the essence of Carmelite spirituality — a contemplative heart expressed through courageous service. Like the prophet Elijah, he stood firm for truth amid danger; like Mary, he listened deeply to the Word of God and carried it faithfully in daily life. His hidden holiness reminds us that sanctity grows quietly in prayer, in fidelity to conscience, and in love of neighbour.
The Carmelites of Australia & Timor-Leste join Fr Paul and the Church of Papua New Guinea in thanksgiving for this historic moment – the canonisation of St Peter To Rot, a husband, catechist, and martyr whose courage and compassion continue to inspire all who seek God in simplicity and service.
