Vanimo Catholic Youths celebrating Faith and Culture

More than 500 youths from bush parishes including Maka, Fas, Utai, Amanab, Kembie, Moi, Kasai, Imonda, and Wasengla gathered at Wasengla Catholic Mission Station for the Youth Rally hosted by the Catholic Diocese of Vanimo.

The week-long event, which started on Monday, September 8th, concludes today, Friday, September 12th.

The rally was held alongside celebrations marking Papua New Guinea’s 50th Independence Anniversary, offering a unique blend of spiritual growth and cultural appreciation.

The program aimed to help young people connect with God while recognizing and celebrating the rich cultural heritage of West Sepik and the nation.

Fr. Solomon Kulo, Parish Priest of Wasengla, emphasized that the week’s activities, which included spiritual talks and various programs, were designed to support youths from remote areas of the Vanimo Green District.

“We aim to spread God’s love and kindness to these young people,” he said.

“Even when the government may have forgotten them, God never forgets. He cares for them and provides for them in His mercy.”

Fr. Kulo also highlighted the Church’s long-standing role in these communities, noting that while PNG marks 50 years of nationhood, many rural communities continue to face challenges.

“The Church has always been with these people, living among them, spreading God’s love and word,” he added.

The Vanimo Diocese emphasized that the Youth Rally was not only about spiritual growth but also about teaching youths to live good lives, spread God’s love, and appreciate the nation’s history and diverse cultural heritage.

As the rally concludes today, participants leave inspired, spiritually nourished, and ready to share God’s love within their communities.