PNG: Farewell Mass Honors Outgoing Nunciature Secretary

A Farewell Mass was held in Port Moresby on August 13 to honour Monsignor Federico Boni, Secretary of the Apostolic Nunciature to Papua New Guinea and the Solomon Islands for the past three years, who has been reassigned to the Vatican’s Secretariat of State, Section for Relations with States and International Organizations. His transfer takes effect this month, the Catholic Bishops Conference of PNG and Solomon Islands (CBCPNGSI) announced.

The liturgy, attended by clergy, religious, and lay faithful, featured music by the St Mary’s Vuvu choir from East New Britain and heartfelt expressions of gratitude for Monsignor Boni’s service.

During his tenure, Monsignor Boni played a key role in the preparation and coordination of Pope Francis’s historic visit to Papua New Guinea in September 2024. He also represented the Nunciature at major Church events, including the 65th Annual General Meeting of the CBCPNGSI, pastoral visits to mission centres, and memorial services following the death of Pope Francis in April 2025.

Known for his blend of diplomatic skill and pastoral presence, Monsignor Boni worked closely with the local Church on issues of governance, outreach, and inter-cultural engagement. His contributions were recognised not only through official duties but also in moments of solidarity, such as receiving traditional Melanesian tributes on behalf of the Holy See and ensuring their distribution to the needy.

In his new role in Rome, Monsignor Boni will be involved in the Holy See’s diplomatic relations at a global level. Church leaders in PNG and the Solomon Islands expressed deep appreciation for his commitment, describing him as a bridge between Vatican diplomacy and local pastoral life.