Callan Optical Centre Reopens, Bringing Renewed Hope for Eye Care in Papua New Guinea

The Catholic Diocese of Goroka celebrated the official reopening of the Callan Optical Centre on Monday, 13 July 2026, marking a significant milestone in the Church's healing ministry and reaffirming its commitment to providing quality and accessible eye care services to the people of Papua New Guinea.

His Excellency Bishop Valentine Gryk making his keynote address during the reopening of the Callan Optical Centre

The reopening ceremony brought together Church leaders, government representatives, development partners, health professionals, and members of the local community to celebrate the revitalisation of a service that has restored sight and improved the lives of thousands of Papua New Guineans over the past four decades.

Welcoming guests to the ceremony, Br. Desmond, Christian Brother and Officer-in-Charge of the Callan Optical Centre, acknowledged the presence of Bishop Valentine Gryk, representatives from Christian Blind Mission (CBM) New Zealand, CBM Papua New Guinea, OneSight, the Eastern Highlands Provincial Health Authority, Mount Zion, partner organisations, and invited guests.

In his opening remarks, Br. Desmond emphasised the importance of restoring quality eye care services, particularly for children, the elderly, and people living in remote communities. He expressed his gratitude to the many organisations and individuals whose collaboration made the refurbishment and reopening of the centre possible.

Speaking on behalf of Christian Blind Mission (CBM) New Zealand, Linabel Hadlee highlighted the life-changing impact of good vision, noting that quality eye care enables children to learn, adults to work, and older people to continue living independently. She thanked the Catholic Diocese of Goroka, the Government of New Zealand, and all development partners for their shared commitment to strengthening sustainable eye care services in Papua New Guinea.

The official ribbon cutting led by Ms Linabel Hedlee

Representing OneSight, Wayne Tennent said the organisation was honoured to contribute its technical expertise towards strengthening local capacity. He described the partnership as a shared mission to empower communities by expanding access to quality vision care.

Dr. Peter Kaupa, representing the Eastern Highlands Provincial Health Authority, congratulated all partners for their dedication and reaffirmed that eye health is an essential part of a person's overall well-being and quality of life. He assured those present of the Provincial Health Authority's continued commitment to working alongside the Catholic Church and its partners to sustain and expand the service in the years ahead.

Peter Wagambi reflected on the history of the former Mount Zion Optical Workshop, acknowledging both its achievements and the challenges that eventually led to the suspension of its services. He expressed confidence that the renewed partnership, together with the upgraded facilities, would ensure the centre continues to serve future generations with professionalism, compassion, and excellence.

In his keynote address, Bishop Valentine Gryk reflected on the centre's more than forty years of dedicated service to people from across Papua New Guinea. He expressed sincere appreciation to CBM, OneSight, and all development partners whose generosity, expertise, and continued support made the restoration of the facility possible.

"Our mission follows the example of Jesus Christ, who restored sight and brought hope to those in need," Bishop Gryk said. "May this centre continue not only to help people see more clearly but also to restore dignity, hope, and a better quality of life."

Following the blessing of the refurbished building, Bishop Valentine Gryk, accompanied by Wayne Tennent, Linabel Hadlee, and Dr. Peter Kaupa, officially declared the Callan Optical Centre open by cutting the ceremonial ribbon.

Guests were then invited to tour the upgraded facility, where they viewed the modern equipment and learned about the expanded range of services that will now be available to patients. The celebration concluded with refreshments and fellowship at the Diocesan Office.

The reopening of the Callan Optical Centre represents far more than the restoration of a building. It reflects the Catholic Church's enduring commitment to the healing ministry of Christ by providing compassionate, professional, and accessible eye care services, especially for the poor, the vulnerable, and those living in rural and underserved communities.

Members of the public experiencing vision difficulties or requiring eye examinations and prescription glasses are encouraged to visit the Callan Optical Centre in Goroka. Early diagnosis and timely treatment can prevent avoidable vision loss and significantly improve an individual's quality of life.

As the Church continues to proclaim the Gospel through works of mercy and healing, the Callan Optical Centre stands as a visible sign of hope, restoring sight, renewing dignity, and enabling people to participate more fully in the life of their families, communities, and society.