The Catholic Church in Papua New Guinea has been a vital player in the country’s education and health sectors, stepping in to fill the gaps left by a lack of government support. Father Sylvester Warwakai, Provincial Superior of the Missionaries of the Sacred Heart of Jesus in Papua New Guinea Province, highlighted the important role that the Church plays in providing education and healthcare services to communities across the country.
Since Papua New Guinea gained independence in 1975, the Catholic Church has worked in partnership with the government to establish the Catholic Education Agency and the Catholic Health Services. This collaboration has allowed the Church to operate schools and health facilities in various dioceses, working within the existing framework to provide much-needed services to communities.
Father Warwakai emphasized the significance of the Church’s presence in rural areas where government services are scarce. The Missionaries operate in remote regions, such as the mountain parishes of Bereina and Kerema Dioceses, where they run schools and health facilities. However, the challenging terrain and lack of government support have made it difficult for these institutions to function effectively.
The limited resources and financial support from the government have posed significant challenges for the Church-run institutions. Father Warwakai expressed concern over the impact of delayed subsidies on schools and health facilities, leading to closures and reduced services. The Missionaries have had to improvise with the resources they have, often relying on support from international agencies to continue their work.
Despite these challenges, the Missionaries of the Sacred Heart of Jesus remain committed to serving not only Catholics but the general population. Their work in the health sector, in particular, has been a testament to their dedication to Gospel values and their mission to provide care to those in need. The upcoming visit of Pope Francis to Papua New Guinea is seen as a source of hope and optimism for the Missionaries and the communities they serve.
Father Warwakai expressed gratitude for the support they receive from the Catholic Bishops‘ Conference of Papua New Guinea and the Solomon Islands, as well as from other religious congregations and missionaries in the country. The presence of Pope Francis is expected to bring a sense of unity and hope to the Papuan communities, especially the younger generations who will have the opportunity to experience the Holy Father’s closeness firsthand.
In conclusion, the Catholic Church’s involvement in Papua New Guinea’s education and health sectors has been crucial in providing essential services to communities in need. Despite the challenges they face, the Missionaries of the Sacred Heart of Jesus continue to work tirelessly to support the people of Papua New Guinea and bring hope for a better future.