Mass Stipends for Priests in Papua New Guinea

It has barely been 80 years since the Catholic faith first arrived in the territory of what is now the Diocese of Wabag. In the past, the missionaries struggled against great adversity to bring the good news of Christ to the people. And their efforts have now borne fruit. Today, there are some 95,000 Catholics in the diocese, and the Church is growing dynamically, with more and more homegrown vocations.

Bishop Justin Ain Soongie is himself a native of the diocese. He has a profound concern for his priests, but sadly, not the resources to support them in their very difficult ministry.

Most of the Catholic faithful live in the remote and inaccessible mountain regions, in villages at an altitude of 5,000 to 7,000 feet above sea level. The parishes are vast and have numerous outstations, and the roads leading to them are often near impassable. The priests minister to the spiritual needs of the people and bring them the sacraments and the good news of Christ. And at the same time, they are often the only people in a position to help the local people – and not just Catholics – in their many different needs. They also often have to act as mediators, striving to promote peace in the violent clashes that all too frequently break out between the different tribal groups.

The Mass stipends offered by our generous benefactors have, for years, been a precious support for these priests in Wabag. They help the priests with their immediate material needs, enabling them to buy such basic essentials as food, medical supplies, and fuel for their pastoral visits to the remote, outlying communities. And as a result, their pastoral ministry is strengthened, and the people are blessed with the presence of the priest, and the sacraments they so deeply long for. Your offerings also help to provide the altar hosts, the Mass wine, and the candles for the celebration of Holy Mass.

Bishop Justin Ain Soongie has asked us once again this year to help the 29 priests in his diocese of Wabag. He writes: “Given the social problems and the tribal conflicts, the priests in this mission territory face numerous problems and challenges. Yet despite all the difficulties, they fulfill their responsibilities and accompany the people on the path of faith. We will gratefully accept whatever you can give us, and we continue to pray for all of you who are helping us to further the mission of Christ.“

Would you consider making a Mass offering, so that the priests of this diocese can celebrate Holy Mass for your intentions?

512-01-99