The Diocese of Mendi, situated in the Highlands of Papua New Guinea, is celebrating a major pastoral achievement with the arrival of a new vehicle for St. Joseph’s parish in Margarima. The diocese consists of 31 parishes and over 300 outstations scattered across a remote, rural, and mountainous landscape.
A success story in the Diocese of Mendi
St. Joseph’s is the largest parish in the Diocese of Mendi, with 17 widely scattered outstations that require priests to cover considerable distances. Parish priest Father George Mathew faced a significant challenge with his old vehicle, which had clocked over 270,000 km and suffered frequent breakdowns. The resulting repair costs and inability to visit the faithful led Bishop Donald Francis Lippert of Mendi to request assistance from ACN.
Thanks to the support of benefactors, 26,000 Euros were provided for a reliable all-terrain vehicle designed to cope with challenging road conditions. This sturdy transport is crucial for the Hela province, where senseless tribal conflicts make the Church’s presence a vital «glimmer of light» in the darkness.
Solidarity through mobility
Bishop Lippert wrote to thank those who made this project possible, highlighting the importance of being present for the community:
“This sturdy new vehicle makes it possible for Father George to visit all his outlying outstations and to be there for his people in these difficult times. In this way you, the benefactors of ACN are accompanying him on his travels with your solidarity and your prayers”.
