Bishop of the Kavieng Catholic Diocese, Ambrose Kiapseni, says leaders must use their Christian duty in their leadership roles to address many issues affecting livelihood.
One of them is climate change.
Bishop Ambrose made these comments, in his congratulatory message, to cardinal-elect, His Eminence, Sir John Ribat.
He said that the elevation of Sir John Ribat to a cardinal shows the maturity of faith in Papua New Guinea.
However, there is a challenge when it comes to leadership in all aspects, especially politics in the country.
Many issues on humanitarian needs, like climate change, have lacked focus, which the church and only few non-government organisations have raised their efforts to deal with the situation.
“Our Christian duty is to look after the world; God has given us and keep it safe, for everybody. We have to respect nature.”
Bishop Ambrose says the appointment of Sir John Ribat is historic for Papua New Guinea and as his confrere in the Missionaries of the Sacred Heart.
This will also strengthen vocation, and Papua New Guinea to mission out to other countries.
“From mission to church and from church to mission. That is what we are going to follow in future,” Bishop Ambrose said.
News of Sir John Ribat’s appointment was a blessing to the faithful of the Kavieng Catholic Diocese.
A Catholic faithful Donna Lando told EMTV News in Kavieng that, there is hope for many who have left the church.
“Many people have lost hope, some leaving the Catholic Church. And with Ribat’s elevation to a cardinal, there is hope for them to come back to their church.”
