On September 9, 2024, Pope Francis was presented with an image of Blessed Peter To Rot during his visit to Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea. On Monday, March  31, he authorized decrees related to several canonization causes, including that of Peter To Rot, marking a significant step toward his sainthood.

Blessed Peter, born on March 5, 1912, was a catechist known for his humility, charity, and dedication to serving the poor and orphans. During World War II and the Japanese occupation of Papua New Guinea, he defied restrictions by continuing his apostolic work in secret. He defended the sanctity of marriage, opposing polygamy even at great personal risk. Tragically, he was imprisoned and martyred in July 1945.

Blessed Peter To Rot’s beatification took place on January 17, 1995, led by Pope St. John Paul II in Port Moresby. With this new decree, the Church is set to recognize Blessed Peter as the first Papuan saint.

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