Tumleo Island, Papua New Guinea – May 2025
In a spirit of deep reverence and renewal, the Diocese of Aitape has launched a series of Eucharistic celebrations as part of the Year of the Eucharist, with moving ceremonies held recently at St. Johnchim Parish, Tumleo Island, and Ali Island. The program, guided by Hermit Aniyan under the theme “Eucharistic Character Formation Proceedings,” has drawn faithful from across the region into a profound encounter with Jesus Christ in the Blessed Sacrament.
The first day of the event began at the Grotto with the Angelus, followed by a warm welcome speech and an introductory reflection centered on the Bible. A candlelight procession led the community to the altar at the main church, setting a sacred tone for the day.
Once inside, the enthronement of the Word of God took place. A priest incensed the altar as the congregation stood to sing the Magnificat of Mary—a hymn of praise echoing Mary’s joyful response to God’s promise. Following the Magnificat, Holy Water was sprinkled over the assembly, invoking God’s blessing.
In a symbolic act of spiritual teaching, the hermit designated a priest to hold flowers high while proclaiming the Eight Beatitudes from the Gospel of Matthew (5:3–10). Each flower represented one beatitude, emphasizing the path to holiness and true happiness.
This sacred atmosphere continued with the ritual washing of feet, a sign of humility and service, reminding all of Christ’s call to love one another.
The Holy Mass followed, culminating in the Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament. In silent adoration before the Monstrance, the faithful were invited to a personal, communal encounter with Jesus—listening in their hearts to His presence.
On the second day, the celebration resumed with a solemn procession from outside the church to the altar. The Word of God was again enthroned, and Scripture was read and shared by individuals, fostering a deep connection to God’s voice through the Bible.
A particularly intimate moment came when each participant was given the opportunity to stand before the exposed Eucharist in the Monstrance—meeting Jesus face to face in a quiet, personal encounter. Open prayer followed, interspersed with the moving hymn.
As a powerful gesture of humility and community, participants then washed one another’s feet, renewing their commitment to serve one another in love. The day concluded with the celebration of the Eucharistic Mass.
The Eucharistic Pilgrimage is expected to continue across various parishes throughout the Diocese of Aitape in the coming weeks, inviting more communities to draw closer to Christ present in the Eucharist. In this Year of the Eucharist, the Diocese is not only celebrating but forming hearts to live Eucharistically every day.
DOA SOCOM
