The Government has pledged to work together with the newly installed Catholic archbishop, the Most Reverend Christopher Michael Cardone Op.
Archbishop Cardone, who was installed last Saturday at the Holy Cross Cathedral, was the third archbishop of Honiara.
“I want to commit the partnership of the government of Solomon Islands to your service,” government rep and Minister of Fisheries and Marine Resources, John Maneniaru told the new archbishop.
Maneniaru said that the national government is committed to working together with the new archbishop and the Catholic Church.
“I must say that we greatly value the contributions of the church and in particular in the areas such as of psycho-social and moral development,” Maneniaru stated.
“Theological education and pastoral ministry, peace building, faith-building and discipline and finally opening a mindset that goes beyond what we normally see. That is helping to see the Kingdom of God,” he added.
“Today, we need to get to know each other. Getting to know each other is a great adventure. Our life together is part of the story of salvation which God continues even into our own time.”
Maneniaru further stated that Mary our mother serves as good example.
“Mary didn’t expect the Annunciation. She didn’t expect to be mother of our Lord.
“And yet her act of obedience changed the course of our entire human history and led us to a new convenient of love and fruitfulness.
“I have no illusions in my mind of the call for you to serve in this ministry but I do trust in the wisdom of the Holy Father.
“Archbishop Chris, I know you must be deeply grateful for the confidence the Holy Father entrusted to you and the privilege of serving this church.”
He also thanked Bishop Adrian Thomas Smith for the 50 years hehas rendered to the church in the country.
“Thank you so much for your contributions. Thank you also to the Parish Council for all the support you have rendered to his work during his time.”
By LESLEY SANGA