Papua New Guinea: Bishop Justine marks two decades of youth-centered ministry

Thousands gathered in Enga Province on May 11 to celebrate Mother’s Day and the 20th priestly anniversary of Bishop Justine Ain Soongie of Wabag. 

Among them was the International Movement of Catholic Students–Papua New Guinea (IMCS–PNG), which offered a heartfelt tribute to a bishop who has walked with, mentored, and inspired the youth of the Church for two decades.

In a nation where faith is integral to identity, education, and development, Bishop Justine’s priesthood stands as a testimony to humble and Gospel-centered leadership. 

For IMCS–PNG, his anniversary is not only a milestone—it is a witness to Christ-centered discipleship in the modern world.

IMCS–PNG Expresses Gratitude

In a national statement issued on May 11, IMCS–PNG praised Bishop Soongie for his pastoral dedication and unwavering support for Catholic student communities.

“We, the members of the International Movement of Catholic Students in the Catholic Diocese of Wabag and Papua New Guinea, thank Almighty God for the life and ministry of Bishop Justine Ain Soongie. As young Catholics striving to follow Christ in our academic and social settings, we see in him a true servant of God, whose life challenges us to walk with courage, to speak with wisdom, and to serve with love,” the statement read.

During a special Mass of Thanksgiving at Yampu Catholic Church, Fr. Clement, a former IMCS chaplain, remarked, “This is not only Mothers Day or Vocation Sunday—it is a moment of renewal for all of us. We are all called to His priesthood and reminded of what it means to lead with a servant’s heart and remain rooted in faith, even in difficult times.”

A Bishop Close to Students

Long before his episcopal ordination, Bishop Soongie was deeply involved in youth ministry, Catholic schools, and university chaplaincies across the Highlands region.

As Vicar General and later Diocesan Pastoral Director, he consistently engaged with student groups, delivered keynotes at youth congresses, and emphasized education as a mission.

Sr. Grace, a student at the University of Goroka and national leader of IMCS–PNG, shared her personal encounter: “He spoke not to impress us, but because he believed in us. He told us,  “Don’t wait to be older or perfect to serve the church. You are leaders now—start presently.’ That changed how I viewed my vocation.”

In 2023, Bishop Soongie launched the “Young Prophets of Peace” program in Enga, which trains Catholic students in peacebuilding, advocacy, and Gospel-based leadership.

A Listening Shepherd with Profound Wisdom

Bishop Soongie’s pastoral approach is grounded in listening, cultural understanding, and hope. He acknowledges the tensions of tradition, modernity, and social struggle that young people in PNG face daily.

At an IMCS event in Goroka, he encouraged students, “There are many voices in the world today, and many of them try to define who you are. But remember that your identity comes from God. You are not what society labels you.  You are a child of God, made for greatness.”

Michael Bole, IMCS coordinator from St. Benedict’s Teachers College in Wewak, affirmed this: “He is one of the few bishops who truly sees and understands student struggles, especially in rural areas. He doesn’t just preach—he listens and walks with us.”

A Life Rooted in Faith and Service

Born in 1975 in Keas village, Kompiam-Ambum District, Enga Province, Bishop Soongie grew up in a family of strong Catholic faith. Inspired by missionary priests and local catechists, he joined the Holy Spirit Seminary in Bomana and was ordained in 2005.

Over 17 years, he served in parish ministry, education, and diocesan leadership before being appointed Bishop of Wabag in 2022 by Pope Francis.

His commitment to Catholic education and youth formation remains strong. In 2024, he hosted the first Young Women’s Workshop in Sari, highlighting Catholic Social Teaching, interfaith dialogue, and students’ responsibility in nation-building.

A Message to the Youth

In a special message released on his anniversary, Bishop Soongie thanked IMCS–PNG members and called on them to remain bold in faith and service.

“To the young people of IMCS–PNG, I say: thank you for walking with the Church. Thank you for loving Christ in your study, your friendships, and your service. The Church needs your voice. The world needs your witness. Do not be afraid to shine your light in the darkness.”

“The priesthood is not about titles or power. It is about washing the feet of others, just like Jesus. If your education and your faith lead you to serve the poor, comfort the broken, teach the ignorant, and bring peace—you are already living your vocation.”

People widely shared his message across IMCS platforms, sparking messages of appreciation.

A medical student from Port Moresby wrote, “He is the kind of leader I want to be—gentle, strong, and faithful.” A seminarian from Lae reflected, “His life reminds me why I want to be a priest—not for the collar, but for the people.”

The Road Ahead for IMCS–PNG

IMCS–PNG has pledged to continue working closely with Bishop Soongie and other church leaders to expand student ministry and formation across the country.

Plans include the launch of new diocesan IMCS chapters in Vanimo, Kundiawa, and Mendi, with Wabag serving as a model.

The national team also aims to intensify its advocacy efforts on matters dear to the bishop, including climate change, gender justice, tribal conflict resolution, and education access.

“His priesthood is a seed planted in beneficial soil,” said IMCS–DWU’s Yorkson. “Now it is our turn to grow from it and bear fruit—in our campuses, our families, and our society.”

To mark the anniversary, IMCS–PNG launched a social media tribute campaign, #ThankYouBishopJustine, inviting students to post reflections and prayers. Hundreds of messages poured in, turning the campaign into a national Catholic youth celebration.

Final Word

Bishop Justine Ain Soongie’s 20 years of priestly service is more than a personal milestone—it is a beacon of faithfulness, servant leadership, and vocational love.

To the young Catholics of Papua New Guinea, he remains a father, a brother, and a fellow pilgrim, guiding them toward Christ-centered living.

“As you thank God for me today,” he said in his closing remarks, “I thank God for you. You are not the Church of tomorrow—you are the Church of now. Let us walk together, with Christ at the center.”