Prayerful support for people of Tonga

New Zealand Catholics are showing their support and deep concern for Tongan families affected by the sinking of the Princess Ashika ferry in Tonga.

Prayers are being said in parishes and schools around the country and the New Zealand Catholic Bishops Conference has offered its support to Bishop Paini Mafi of Tonga.

On behalf of the Conference the president, Bishop Denis Browne of Hamilton, phoned Bishop Mafi.

“I assured Bishop Mafi and the people of Tonga that they have our sympathy and prayerful support. I also mentioned that we will be doing our best to support the many Tongan people grieving here in New Zealand,” he said.