The Tongan government has declared March the 2nd a national public holiday in recognition of Tonga's first Catholic Cardinal.
Soane Patita Paini Mafi, bishop of Tonga, is elevated to the rank of Cardinal by Pope Francis during a consistory, on February 14, 2015 at St. Peter's basilica in Vatican. Photo: AFP
In a statement, it says this special decision is a one-off, and is in honour of the appointment of His Eminence Cardinal Soane Patita Mafi to the College of Cardinals of the Roman Catholic Church.
Cardinal Mafi is the youngest church leader appointed to the role at the age of 53.
He arrives back in the kingdom today.
Prince Tupouto'a 'Ulukalala and the Queen Mother will be present at the thanksgiving mass of Cardinal Mafi this Sunday.
