Catechism translated for Papua New Guinea

(Sept.28,2010) The Catechism of the Catholic Church has been translated into New Guinea Pidgin, or Tok Pisin, the most prevalent language in Papua New Guinea. Bishop Francesco Sarego of Goroka led the team of clerics and theologians in the translation project that is just completed, said Fides, a Catholic news agency. It noted that the prelates throughout the country have joyfully approved the invaluable work. Fides said the catechism was printed immediately and each diocese in the country received 5,000 copies to sell to the public at a minimum cost. Fides noted that missionaries, catechists and faithful are overjoyed to have this translated text. They requested that educational films on Scripture and the saints be also translated into the local language. There have also been requests for a greater investment in Catholic evangelization through print, radio, television, films, DVDs and CDs, along with the spiritual and professional education of people who will work in this ministry.
A little over a quarter of Papua New Guinea's near 6 million people are Catholic. Though Tok Pisin, English and Hiri Motu are official languages of the island, it is Tok Pisin that is widely used and understood. English is spoken by only about 2% and Hiri Motu by less than 2%.