GIZO, Solomon Islands: 22nd October 2007 -- A Solemn Eucharistic celebration was held at the Melanesian Spearhead Hall, Gizo on 21 October, 2007.    The Eucharist was presided over by Joseph Cardinal Zen, bishop of Hong Kong, and in the presence of several bishops, priests, government officials, Catholics, overseas and local guests.  The Eucharistic celebration was well prepared with the full participation of different groups and parishes of the Diocese of Gizo.  A grand feast was prepared to celebrated the occasion with a variety of local ‘kaikai’.  The variety entertainment lasted till late in the evening.  Bishop Bernard O’Grady op, expressed his thanks and appreciation to the people of the Western province as he handed over charge to Bishop Luciano Capelli sdb, Bishop of Gizo.

    Earlier, in another setting, this time in Honiara before departure for Gizo, the Archbishop of Honiara, Adrian Smith sm, welcomed Cardinal Zen: "We have the unique opportunity to thank the Chinese people for all the love and support given to the Church all through these years", he said, as he welcomed Joseph Cardinal Zen to Holy Cross Cathedral in Honiara. He also thanked the immediate response of kindness and generosity of the Holy Father, Pope Benedict XVI, at the time of last year's outbreak of violence in the capital when mobs burned down many Chinese buildings and homes.