National Family Life Commission Brings Dioceses Together for Annual Conference and Workshop.

"Reflecting on Family Life, Faith, and Communities in

Papua New Guinea and Solomon Islands."

The Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Papua New Guinea and Solomon Islands (CBCPNGSI), through its National Family Life Commission, recently held its Annual Conference and Workshop (27th February - 5th March, 2026), bringing together participants from dioceses across the country to reflect on issues affecting families and communities.

The workshop provided an important opportunity for Church for the family life coordinators to discuss pastoral challenges, strengthen collaboration, and renew their commitment to supporting families as the foundation of both the Church and society.

Family Life Coordinators from the Catholic Dioceses of Papua New Guinea and Solomon Islands with Bishop John Bosco Auram, Bishop of the diocese of Kimbe, during the workshop at the CBCPNGSI Headquarters.

A Gathering of Diocesan Representatives:

The conference was chaired by Bishop John Bosco Auram, who serves as Assistant Bishop Deputy for the Commission for Youth, the Commission for Family Life and Laity, and the National Catechetical Institute. Participants from various dioceses across Papua New Guinea and Solomon Islands attended the week-long gathering, sharing experiences and discussing practical ways to strengthen family life within their local communities. The workshop served as a space for reflection, dialogue, and planning, allowing participants to explore pastoral responses to the realities facing families today.

| “Families are the Domestic Church where faith is first lived, nurtured, and shared.”

A Time of Prayer Amid Losses:

The conference was marked by a moment of deep sorrow following the passing of Sr. Lucy D’Souza, MSI, Secretary of the Family Life Commission, who died on Sunday (01.03.2026), four days into the workshop. Participants paused to pray and remember her faithful service to the Church. Despite the sadness, the conference continued in a spirit of unity and commitment, honouring her legacy by continuing the mission she had dedicated her life to.

Framed portrait of the late Sr. Lucy D’Souza, MSI, remembered with gratitude for her service as National Family Life Secretary.

Strengthening the “Domestic Church”:

One of the key themes discussed during the workshop was the Traditional Leadership System (TLS) and how it can support the mission of the Church. Participants reflected on the understanding of families as the “Domestic Church,” emphasizing that the family is the first place where faith, love, and Christian values are taught and practiced. Discussions highlighted how traditional leadership structures continue to play a significant role in shaping family relationships and community life across Papua New Guinea and Solomon Islands.

| “The family remains the foundation of both the Church and society.”

Bishop John Bosco Auram addressing participants during the Family Life workshop.

Addressing Challenges Facing Families:

The workshop also provided an open platform for discussing several pressing issues

affecting families today, including:

•  Abortion

•  Marriage outside the sacrament

•  Incest within families

•  Teenage pregnancies

Participants stressed the importance of addressing these challenges through education, pastoral care, and the promotion of Christian values within families and communities. There was strong agreement that the Church must continue to accompany families with compassion, guidance, and practical support.

Promoting Responsible Parenthood:

During the conference, Bishop Auram spoke about the importance of responsible parenthood and prenatal care, emphasizing that the care shown to a child even before birth is crucial for healthy development.

He reminded participants that the emotional and physical environment experienced by a child during pregnancy can influence the child’s growth and behaviour later in life.

| “Love, care, and responsibility must begin from the very beginning of life.”

Family Life Coordinators from Southern Region, Papua New Guinea, with Bishop John Bosco Auram.

Shared Responsibility for Family Life:

Participants acknowledged that strengthening family life requires the combined efforts of parents, Church leaders, and the wider community. The discussions reaffirmed the importance of teaching values that support healthy relationships, respect for life, and strong Christian identity within families. The workshop concluded with renewed commitment from participants to continue promoting and supporting family life in their dioceses.

Vision and Mission of the Commission:

Vision

• To foster a family alive in Christ in the Church and in the world.

Mission

To promote God’s Kingdom by:

•  Witnessing the Good News

•  Fostering growth in holiness and faith for all

•  Encouraging fuller participation in the Church and society to transform the

world through the love of Christ.

The Annual Conference Workshop reaffirmed the Church’s commitment to strengthening families as the heart of society and the first school of faith. Through reflection, dialogue, and prayer, participants renewed their dedication to serving families throughout Papua New Guinea.