Bishop Justin Ain Soongie of Wabag Diocese assures people of continued service, commitment, love, humility, and dedication

Sangurap, Wabag: Bishop Justin Ain Soongie from Wabag Diocese, when responding to the speeches during his Installation as the third Bishop of Wabag on Thursday, August 21, 2025, reassured the people of God who turned up in numbers that he will continue to serve them with commitment, love, humility, and dedication.

His Lordship Bishop Justin Ain Soongie of Wabag Diocese

Bishop Soongie extended his heartfelt appreciation on behalf of his people to His Excellency Maurizio Bravi, Apostolic Nuncio to Papua New Guinea and Solomon Islands, for paternal guidance and tireless support throughout the process leading to his Installation. He also acknowledged Monsignor Federico Boni, the former Secretary to the Nunciature, whose effort and commitment ensured that Wabag Diocese did not remain without a bishop for a prolonged period after the passing of their beloved late Bishop Arnold Orowae.

“I also extend my sincere appreciation to His Eminence John Cardinal Ribat MSC, all Archbishops, Bishops of Papua New Guinea and Solomon Islands, for your encouragement and your brotherly support, and your wise counsel has been a great source of strength to me as I take up this noble responsibility. For the bond of fraternity among us continues to grow as we shepherd the flock entrusted to our care. My heartfelt thanks to the priests, and the religious men and women working tirelessly in the Diocese of Wabag and throughout the country, your prayers, sacrifices, and faithful service to God’s people are invaluable to our mission as a Church.”

Bishop Soongie also acknowledged with deep gratitude the pastoral workers who carry forward the work of evangelization in villages and communities. He described them as living witnesses of Christ’s love and without them, the mission of the Church would be incomplete.

“To the faithful of Wabag Diocese, your faith, your sacrifices, and your perseverance amidst of the challenges is a true testament of the living gospel. Today I stand before you, not as one above you, but as your brother and your servant ready to walk with you in faith, love, and charity so that together, we may continue to build a church that is alive, vibrant, and rooted in Christ.”

He also acknowledged with gratitude the partnership and support of the Enga Provincial Government under the leadership of the Honourable Governor Grand Chief Sir Peter Ipatas and the Provincial Administration under the leadership of Mr Sandis Tsaka.

“The Catholic Church has been a long and trusted partner providing health and education services in Enga, and we remain committed to working hand in hand to improve the welfare and wellbeing of our people. Looking forward, I envision greater collaboration, not just in health and education, but also in addressing the pressing issues of law and order and promoting peace and harmony in our province. Only by working together, the Church, Government, and people can recreate a society that reflects the values of God’s Kingdom.”

Bishop Soongie thanked his family, friends, and generous benefactors who have worked with him throughout the years.

“You have supported me in countless ways, carrying me in prayer and encouraging me in moments of difficulty and sharing generously in the joys and burdens of my vocation. Without your presence and support, the journey of life and mission would be difficult to bear. For all that you have been and continue to be in my life, I thank you from the bottom of my heart.”

He also encouraged the Catholic faithful of Enga to remain steadfast in prayer and God’s mission amidst the troubles happening in Enga.

He concluded by saying that Bishop Arnold Orowae left behind very big shoes to fill and asked the people for their support, prayers, and companionship to build the body of Christ and be instruments of peace, reconciliation, and hope for Enga and beyond.