Two Catholic Priests Commissioned as Chaplains to PNG’s Defence Force

PORT MORESBY – After two years of waiting, prayer and preparation, the Catholic Church in Papua New Guinea has witnessed an important development in its ministry to more members of the country's Defence Force, with the commissioning of two Catholic priests as chaplains in the Papua New Guinea Defence Force (PNGDF).

The commissioning ceremony for Fr. Salvinus Aloysius SMM and Fr. Kenneth Louma MSC took place on 8 October 2026 at the PNGDF Headquarters, Murray Barracks, from 9:00 am to 12:00 noon. Both priests were commissioned with the rank of Captain, marking a significant step in the Church's continued commitment to providing spiritual and pastoral care within the nation's disciplinary forces.

Following their commissioning, Captain Fr Salvinus Aloysius SMM has been appointed to serve at Igam Barracks in Lae, while Captain Fr Kenneth Louma MSC will serve at the PNGDF Headquarters at Murray Barracks.

Their appointments represent more than an addition to the military chaplaincy service. They reflect the Church's understanding that its pastoral mission extends beyond parish boundaries, reaching people in their workplaces, institutions and everyday circumstances. For members of the Defence Force, whose responsibilities often involve demanding situations and personal sacrifices, the presence of a chaplain offers an important source of spiritual guidance, encouragement and support.

The ministry of a military chaplain is centred on accompanying people through the different experiences of their service. Through the celebration of the Sacraments, pastoral counselling, prayer and personal engagement, chaplains help nurture the spiritual well-being of military personnel and their families. Their presence also provides opportunities for soldiers to seek comfort, guidance and hope during difficult moments.

This understanding of chaplaincy is reflected in the Catholic Chaplains' Policy of the Catholic Bishops Conference of Papua New Guinea and Solomon Islands (CBCPNGSI). The policy outlines the responsibilities, training and development of Catholic chaplains serving in various institutions, including the Defence Force, Police, Correctional Services, educational institutions and health facilities.

Its central message is that chaplaincy is a ministry of presence. As explained in the handbook, chaplains are called to accompany those entrusted to their care, offering a listening ear, spiritual direction and pastoral support while contributing to the overall well-being of the communities they serve.

The guidelines further highlight the importance of ongoing formation and professional development, recognising that chaplains must be equipped to respond to the changing pastoral, spiritual and human needs of the people they serve.

The commissioning of Fr Salvinus and Fr Kenneth therefore comes within a wider commitment by the Catholic Church to strengthen its chaplaincy ministry and ensure that the faithful serving in institutional and professional environments are not separated from the spiritual and pastoral care of the Church.

As the two priests begin their respective assignments, the Service Chaplaincies Desk of the CBCPNGSI has expressed its joy and gratitude for their willingness to respond to this particular calling.

Their ministry will be an opportunity to bring the compassion of Christ into the lives of those who serve the nation, reminding them that even in the demanding environment of military service, the Church remains present to accompany, encourage and strengthen them in faith.

May the Lord bless and protect both priests as they undertake this important ministry, and may their service bring comfort, hope and renewed faith to the men and women of the Papua New Guinea Defence Force and their families.