Reverend Deacon Newman Kundal Soongie Ordained to Priesthood in the Diocese of Wabag

Enga Province, 26th of June - The Diocese of Wabag celebrated a joyful and faith-filled occasion as Reverend Deacon Newman Kundal Soongie was ordained into the priesthood at Tsikiro Sacred Heart Parish in Kompiam Ambum District.

The ordination was conferred by Most Reverend Bishop Justin Ain Soongie, Bishop of the Diocese of Wabag, in the presence of clergy, religious, seminarians, family members, parishioners, and well-wishers from across the diocese and beyond.

Most Reverend Bishop Justin Ain Soongie, Bishop of the Diocese of Wabag and Reverend Newman Kundal Soongie during the ordination. PC: Radio Maria PNG

Reverend Newman Kundal Soongie has been ordained as a diocesan priest, called to serve the people of God through the ministry of the Church. His ordination marks an important milestone not only in his personal journey of faith but also in the life of the Diocese of Wabag.

The main theme of the ordination was taken from John 3:30: “He must increase, but I must decrease.” The scripture reflects the spirit of humility, surrender, and faithfulness to God’s calling. It speaks of a priestly life rooted not in self-promotion, but in service, sacrifice, and allowing Christ to be at the centre of one’s ministry.

Most Reverend Bishop Justin Ain Soongie, Bishop of the Diocese of Wabag, along with priests and religious, gathered to participate in the ordination. PC: Radio Maria PNG

The celebration brought together many people from different parts of the diocese. The Diocese of Wabag has about 17 parishes, and nearly half of them were represented at the ordination.

Among those present were parishioners from areas where Rev Newman had carried out his pastoral work, including Mariant Parish in Kandep District from the Southern Deanery. Religious men and women, seminarians, brothers, sisters, and priests also attended, with some travelling from as far as Mendi Diocese to witness and support the occasion.

Reverend Decon Newman Kundal Soongie during the entrance procession of his priestly ordination. PC: Radio Maria PNG

Before the priesthood ordination, the traditional basket exchange took place. This important practice provides an opportunity for parishes to offer donations, whether big or small, in support of the newly ordained priest and his ministry.

It was also a meaningful social and cultural event where parishes exchange gifts such as food, clothes, and other items.

During the basket exchange, two parishes form separate queues and come forward to the basket, where they place their donations, greet one another, and exchange gifts. Beyond material support, the practice strengthens friendship, unity, and a spirit of togetherness among the faithful.

The basket exchange was a joyful expression of solidarity, bringing together the parishes of the Diocese of Wabag in shared faith and support for their new priest.

As Rev Newman Kundal Soongie begins his priestly ministry, the people of the Diocese of Wabag join in prayer and thanksgiving, asking God to guide him in humility, faithfulness, and service to the Church.