On Sunday, 7 July 2025, as Papua New Guinea celebrated the feast of its beloved martyr Blessed Peter ToRot, Pope Leo appointed Fr. Jacek Piotr Tende, a member of the Congregation of the Mission (Vincentians), as the new Bishop of the Diocese of Alotau-Sideia in Milne Bay Province.
Fr. Jacek Piotr Tende hails from Poland, the homeland of many missionaries who have left an indelible mark on the Church in Oceania. A member of the Congregation of the Mission (C.M.), founded by St. Vincent de Paul, Fr. Tende has served for many years in various parts of Papua New Guinea, bringing the Vincentian charism of charity, evangelization, and care for the poor to the forefront of his ministry.
Fr. Tende possesses a deep understanding of Melanesian cultures and the ecclesial realities of PNG. He is known for his humility, pastoral presence, and strong formation work with clergy, catechists, and youth. His years of service in both remote and urban settings have prepared him well for the wide geographical and cultural diversity of the Alotau-Sideia Diocese.
The Diocese of Alotau-Sideia, located in the picturesque and island-rich Milne Bay Province, forms one of the most challenging pastoral territories in Papua New Guinea. With hundreds of islands scattered across the sea, the diocese requires a bishop who understands the hardships of missionary work and the endurance required for pastoral care. The region is predominantly Catholic, and the faithful are known for their warmth, deep spirituality, and vibrant liturgical life.
The diocese has also been at the forefront of promoting indigenous vocations, educational outreach, and environmental stewardship, while grappling with logistical difficulties, climate vulnerabilities, and economic isolation. With his Vincentian roots and mission-first attitude, Fr. Tende is expected to invigorate the diocese’s evangelizing mission with renewed zeal and creativity.
The faithful in Alotau-Sideia and beyond have welcomed the news with joy and hopeful anticipation. Parishioners, diocesan workers, religious men and women, and youth leaders have all expressed gratitude for the Pope’s discernment and trust in appointing a shepherd who understands the region’s spiritual and pastoral needs.
Sr. Maria Cecilia, a local religious sister serving in the diocese, said, “Fr. Tende has always shown great love for our people. His simplicity and missionary spirit are what we need. I believe he will walk with us as a true shepherd.”
John Vavine, a catechist from Esa'ala, echoed these sentiments: “On the day we celebrate Blessed Peter ToRot, we have been blessed again with a bishop who has the heart of a missionary. God is good.”
The clergy of the diocese, many of whom have worked with Fr Tende in retreats and formation programs, have also welcomed the appointment with respect and confidence. His pastoral collaboration, liturgical reverence, and doctrinal clarity have already earned him the admiration of many.
While no official date has yet been set for his episcopal ordination and installation, preparations are underway in Alotau to welcome the new bishop. The Apostolic Nuncio to Papua New Guinea and Solomon Islands, Archbishop Maurizio Claudio Bravi, is expected to preside over the ordination ceremony in the coming months.
As the people of Papua New Guinea continue to grow in faith, this new episcopal appointment is a reminder that their local Church remains an integral part of the universal Church, alive, flourishing, and guided by the Holy Spirit.
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