Bishop of Aitape resigns after 47 years of apostolic service to the people of the Diocese.

The resignation of Bishop Austen Crapp ofm, was officially accepted and has been effective as off 5th March 2009, by the Vatican in Rome. While Bishop Otto Separy, who was ordained Bishop in 2007 has now been appointed as Apostolic Administrator of the Diocese.

According to the doctrines of the Church, legally Bishop otto is not yet Bishop of the Diocese, however pastorally and administratively his is responsible for the decision making.

Meanwhile, awaiting the official announcement of the installation of the new Bishop of Aitape Diocese, Bishop Austen Crapp is now conducting final visits to the three deaneries of Aitape, Lumi and Nuku to farewell the people.