Indonesia: Diocesan Priests in Papua resolve to strengthen fraternity and mission amid globalization

A total of 104 diocesan priests from across the vast Papua Region gathered in the Archdiocese of Merauke, South Papua Province, Indonesia, from October 14 to 16 for their 7th Papua Regional UNIO Meeting, a triennial event aimed at strengthening fraternity and deepening pastoral reflection amid the tides of globalization.

UNIO is the national association of diocesan priests in Indonesia, fostering unity, ongoing formation, and collaboration among clergy across the country.

The gathering was organized by the Diocesan Priests of the Archdiocese of Merauke, in collaboration with UNIO Indonesia, the Archdiocese of Merauke, the Merauke Regency Government, and various lay organizations including the Catholic Women’s Association (WKRI) and the Divine Mercy Community.

This year’s meeting was held under the theme: “Pastoral Ministry in the Midst of Globalization.”

Archbishop Mandagi’s Message

The event opened with a Holy Eucharistic Celebration at the Merauke Cathedral on October 14, presided over by Archbishop Petrus Canisius Mandagi, MSC of Merauke. The Mass was attended by local community leaders, religious men and women, and lay faithful.

In his homily, Archbishop Mandagi expressed appreciation for the spirit of fraternity among diocesan clergy and underlined the importance of communion with God, the bishop, and the faithful as the foundation of pastoral service. He encouraged priests in Papua to nurture their hearts and remain in constant communication with God through the Eucharist and the Word, which serve as their primary source of strength in ministry.

The Meaning of UNIO and Synodality

In his opening address, Fr. Dr. Maxi Un Bria, M.Sos, President of UNIO Indonesia, invited diocesan priests to see UNIO as a fraternity that affirms the dignity of priestly life.

“Obedience and communion with God, the bishop, and the faithful must continually be nurtured so that our service may truly bear fruit,” he said.

He emphasized that the spirit of synodality, walking together with bishops, priests, and the faithful, is at the heart of ministry in the face of global challenges. “Change and globalization are unavoidable realities,” he said. “Diocesan priests must prepare their hearts, minds, and bodies to become ministers who make present the face of God’s mercy among the people they serve.”

Collaboration and Study Sessions

Merauke Regent Mr. Yosef Bladib Gebze reaffirmed that diocesan priests are important partners of the government in promoting spiritual and social well-being. “The faithful served by priests are also the people who are the subjects and beneficiaries of government service. Therefore, synergy and collaboration in service are highly relevant,” he said.

The event featured Study Days and live-in programs with local communities. During the Study Days (October 15–16), several speakers explored various aspects of contextual pastoral ministry.

Living Among the People

During the live-in program, priests stayed with local families, prayed, and shared faith experiences.

Fr. Samson Walewan, President of UNIO Papua, expressed joy over the enthusiasm of the participants, calling the gathering “a grace-filled moment to strengthen one another and renew our priestly life.”

Senior priest Fr. Alex Ate, Pr., from the Diocese of Manokwari-Sorong, said, “I came to show support for my brother priests. Together, we can accomplish many good things.”

Fr. Aloysius Kelbulan, a young priest from the Archdiocese of Merauke, expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve on the organizing committee, saying it gave him “valuable experience in serving fellow priests.”

Priests as True Disciples

Through this UNIO Papua encounter, diocesan priests reaffirmed their commitment to becoming relevant, impactful, and faithful servants amid the challenges of globalization.

“Diocesan priests are true servants and lifelong disciples who continually learn from Jesus, the Master Teacher,” concluded Fr. Maxi Un Bria, President of UNIO Indonesia, in his closing remarks, expressing gratitude for the success of the 7th UNIO Papua Meeting held in Merauke, South Papua Province.