Welcome to the Archdiocese of Papeete: A Jubilee of Hope
In the remote oceanic land of the Archdiocese of Papeete, led by Archbishop Jean-Pierre Cottanceau, twelve Jubilee parishes have been designated, with seven located on the island of Tahiti. Missionary Father Sandro Lafranconi shares, “We began thinking about the Jubilee on Christmas night, when we placed a large anchor in our nativity scenes, symbolizing the hope of Jesus, who never disappoints.”
The vastness of the Archdiocese of Papeete is comparable to the distance between Tunisia and Scandinavia, making it the largest archdiocese in the entire Catholic Church. Father Lafranconi, an Italian priest of the Society of African Missions, has dedicated years to serving in the Leeward Islands, one of the five archipelagos under the Archdiocese’s jurisdiction, including the Austral Islands, the Tuamotu Islands, the Society Islands, the Marquesas Islands, and the Gambier Islands.
Providing Spiritual and Human Support
Caring for over 100,000 faithful spread across remote urban settlements is an adventure for Father Lafranconi and the 23 other diocesan priests, supported by 50 deacons. While the numbers may be insufficient for the needs, they allow the local Church to remain vibrant.
Archbishop Cottanceau has entrusted Father Lafranconi with overseeing pastoral care in several parishes across the Leeward Islands, requiring extensive travel by plane over vast distances.
A Jubilee of Closeness
For the Holy Year, Archbishop Cottanceau has designated twelve Jubilee parishes across the Archdiocese, including St. Andrew’s Church in Raiatea, where Father Lafranconi serves. Preparation for the Jubilee began with symbolic gestures on Christmas night, emphasizing the anchor of hope found in Jesus.
Residents of the Leeward Islands created banners with verses of hope to share across the archipelago, embodying the spirit of the Jubilee. Father Lafranconi emphasizes the importance of understanding indulgence as a father’s unconditional love for his child, highlighting the need for mercy and love in the community.
Practicing Hope
The Jubilee’s central theme of hope takes tangible form in the Archdiocese of Papeete, addressing social challenges and promoting unity among diverse communities. Father Lafranconi stresses the importance of putting hope into action by practicing works of mercy and addressing pressing issues such as substance abuse and family breakdowns.
As the Jubilee unfolds, the message of hope and unity resonates throughout the Archdiocese of Papeete, offering a beacon of light amidst challenges and trials. Let us embrace this Jubilee of Hope and work towards a brighter, more compassionate future for all.
