Catholic Diocese of Aitape

08/07/2026

08/07/2026

Aitape Diocese, Papua New Guinea – 7 July 2026

With hearts full of gratitude and faith, Catholics throughout the Diocese of Aitape came together on 7 July to celebrate the Feast of St. Peter To Rot, Papua New Guinea's first saint, a courageous catechist, devoted husband, and faithful martyr.

Across the diocese, parishes marked this special occasion with joyful Eucharistic celebrations, processions, prayers, cultural performances, and moments of reflection on the inspiring witness of St. Peter To Rot. His unwavering commitment to Christ, the Gospel, and the sanctity of marriage continues to encourage Catholics to remain faithful in their daily lives despite challenges.

Throughout the Diocese of Aitape, priests reminded the faithful that St. Peter To Rot's life remains a powerful example for today's Church. His courage to defend the Catholic faith, uphold Christian marriage, and remain loyal to Christ even unto death continues to inspire every believer to live the Gospel with conviction.

The Diocese of Aitape gives thanks to God for the gift of St. Peter To Rot and expresses sincere appreciation to all priests, religious, catechists, parish leaders, choirs, youth groups, and the faithful who contributed to the joyful celebrations in every parish.

May the intercession of St. Peter To Rot strengthen our faith, deepen our love for the Eucharist, and inspire us to become courageous missionary disciples, bringing the light of Christ to every family and community.

"St. Peter To Rot, pray for us."

*Photos: Celebrations from St. Ignatius Cathedral Parish, Ali Parish, Romei Parish, and Leming Parish.*

02/07/2026

Aitape Deanery Youth Rally 2026: Candle Night.
Photos by

01/07/2026

Romei, 1 July 2026 – Holy Cross Parish Romei held a joyful gathering for the Little Missionary Children (LPM), bringing together the parish ministers and youth in a spirit of faith, learning, and fellowship.

During the activity, the ministers and youth taught the children several basic Catholic prayers, helping them grow in their relationship with God. The gathering continued with moments of prayer, joyful songs, and lively dances, creating a warm and faith-filled atmosphere for everyone.

The event highlighted the importance of nurturing children's faith from an early age while strengthening the bond between the younger generation, parish ministers, and youth. It was a meaningful day of prayer, learning, and Christian community.

By Fr. Todi Manek CMF.

26/06/2026

Closing Mass Marks the Conclusion of Aitape Deanery Youth Rally 2026

The Aitape Deanery Youth Rally 2026 concluded joyfully with the Closing Mass on the morning of 26 June, celebrated by Bishop Siby Mathew together with the priests of the Aitape Deanery.

More than 700 young people gathered in faith and unity to give thanks to God after several days of prayer, formation, fellowship, and joyful celebration. In his homily, Bishop Siby encouraged the young people to remain steadfast in their faith, become witnesses of Christ in their families and communities, and continue living the spirit of the rally in their daily lives.

The celebration ended with hearts filled with gratitude, renewed hope, and a strong commitment to walk together as missionary disciples, bringing the light of Christ wherever they go.

Diocese of Aitape SOCOM

25/06/2026

In Photos. DYR in Aitape Day 3.

24/06/2026

Day 2 DYR in Aitape.
Diocese of Aitape Socom

23/06/2026

AITAPE,
The Aitape Deanery Youth Rally 2026 was officially opened with great joy and enthusiasm at Cathedral Parish, bringing together hundreds of young people from across the deanery under the theme of faith, unity, and missionary discipleship.

The opening ceremony began with a vibrant procession as youth groups proudly carried their parish banners into the cathedral grounds. The atmosphere was filled with songs, cultural performances, prayer, and the spirit of fellowship as participants gathered to celebrate their shared faith and commitment to Christ.
The Holy Mass marked the highlight of the opening program, with young people actively participating through singing, liturgical ministries, and prayers. Church leaders encouraged the youth to deepen their relationship with Jesus, strengthen their Catholic identity, and become witnesses of hope in their communities.
Photo: Youth participants during the Opening Ceremony of the Aitape Deanery Youth Rally 2026 at Cathedral Parish.

Diocese of Aitape Social Communications (DOA SOCOM)

22/06/2026

Aitape Deanery Youth Rally 2026.

21/06/2026

PES Parish, Sunday, 21 June 2026
The faithful of PES Parish gathered joyfully on Sunday, 21 June, for the blessing of the newly renovated priest's residence, followed by a Thanksgiving Mass presided over by Bishop and concelebrated by several priests of the Diocese.

Before the Eucharistic celebration, Bishop Siby blessed the parish priest's house after the completion of renovation works. The blessing marked an important milestone for the parish community, providing a renewed and comfortable residence for the priests serving the faithful.

The Holy Mass followed immediately after the blessing ceremony. During the celebration,Rev. Fr. Mathew Kallikatt, HGN, delivered the homily, reflecting on God's faithfulness and the importance of gratitude, service, and commitment in the life of the Church.

At the conclusion of the Mass, Bishop Siby expressed his heartfelt gratitude to all those who contributed to the successful renovation of the priest's residence. He also extended his warm congratulations to the parish priest, Fr. Terene, on the occasion of his Silver Jubilee of Priesthood, celebrating 25 years of faithful service to God and His people.

The celebration was attended by parishioners, religious, and guests who joined in thanking God for His many blessings upon the parish and for the dedicated ministry of Fr. Terene.

Diocese of Aitape Socom
In photos.