President of CBC PNGSI Meets with Holy Father, Entrusts Nation to Papal Prayers Ahead of 51st Independence Anniversary

In brief

Bishop Rozario Menezes, President of the Catholic Bishops Conference of Papua New Guinea and Solomon Islands, met privately with Pope Leo XIV in Vatican City on Wednesday, September 9, 2026.

The Bishop of Lae met the Pope during the Focolare meeting held at Casa Divin Maestro from September 8 to 11. During the audience, Bishop Menezes requested prayers for the people of Papua New Guinea as the nation approaches its 51st independence anniversary. Pope Leo XIV assured the Bishop of his prayers for the country.