Franciscan Sisters of Mary Novices Profess Vows

In the last days of March, four novices of the Franciscan Sisters of Mary professed their vows of poverty, chastity and obedience in a joyful celebration that was held at Saint Felix of Cantalice Parish in Pangia, Southern Highlands Province of Papua New Guinea.  The Franciscan Sisters of Mary are a community founded in the Diocese of Mendi.  Sisters are involved in various ministries throughout the diocese: health care, teaching, pastoral work, etc...  Let us give thanks for God's gift of consecrated religious life in the Church... and as always, let us pray for an increase of vocations in the church to the priesthood, consecrated religious life and committed lay ministers.  Congratulations Sisters!

Before and After: The Ordination of a Deacon

As Lent was getting started this year, the church in Diocese of Mendi celebrated the diaconate ordination of Elias Zambra.  Last year he finished his seminary studies at the Catholic Theological Institute in Port Moresby.  The ordination mass was a reverent celebration of faith and culture.  Deacon Elias' family made the long journey from Madang to be with him for the celebration.

In a moving moment of the ceremony, Deacon Elias' family presented him to the bishop.  He and many of his family members were dressed in their traditional attire.  He then reverently removed the traditional attire and was vested in the clothing of a deacon to mark his new role within the Catholic community.  Deacons, from the days of the New Testament are important collaborators with bishops and priests in the generous service of the People of God.

Deacon Elias will serve the Diocese of Mendi as a deacon in the Lower Mendi Pastoral Area.  He will also teach in the Blessed Peter ToRot Catechist Training School in Mendi.  We welcome Deacon Elias to this ministry of service and we ask all to continue to pray for vocations.