The Arya Pratinidhi Sabha has sent its condolences at the passing away of the late former Archbishop of the Catholic Church in Fiji, Petro Mataca.

He died on Monday morning after a long illness.

Sabha spokesperson Kamlesh Arya says his contributions to Fiji in general and to the Catholic Church has provided strength for people to battle with difficulties and differences within Fiji’s diversity without prejudice and malice.

Arya says late Archbishop Mataca’s contributions to conflicting situations were always considered and the Sabha believes that he crossed all barriers to bring comfort to everyone.

Archbishop Mataca led the Catholic church for 40 years before his retirement in 2012.