Fr. Donius Ninnen celebrates 25th anniversary mass at Moem barracks

The Catholic community of Moem Barracks and Moem Village gathered on Sunday to celebrate the Silver Jubilee of Fr. Donius Ninnen, marking 25 years of dedicated priesthood and service to the people of Papua New Guinea.

Fr. Ninnen, originally from Gasmata in Valanguo Parish, West New Britain Province, was ordained on December 8, 2001. He has served most of his priesthood in the Aitape Diocese before spending eight years as Chaplain at Taurama Barracks. On September 17, 2024, he was appointed Chaplain of the 2nd Royal Pacific Island Regiment [2RPIR] at Moem Barracks.

The Jubilee celebrations commenced with a Holy Mass at St. Peter’s Chapel in Moem Barracks, led by Fr. Ninnen. Soldiers, families, and members of the surrounding community attended the service to honor his steadfast commitment to pastoral care and spiritual leadership.

During the ceremony, Lt. Col. Francis Vitata, Commanding Officer of 2RPIR, expressed heartfelt gratitude on behalf of the battalion and the wider community.

“On behalf of the people of West New Britain, we sincerely thank you for the sacrifice you have made over the past 25 years. Although your brother priests could not be here today, I extend their gratitude through my words for your faithful service. On behalf of the PNG Defence Force, the Commander, officers, men, and soldiers of the 2nd Battalion, Royal Pacific Island Regiment, I offer our heartfelt appreciation for your dedication and commitment.”

The Silver Jubilee not only celebrated Fr. Ninnen’s personal journey of faith but also outlined the vital role chaplains play in supporting the spiritual and moral strength of the Papua New Guinea Defence Force.