A shepherd finds his home: Fr. Praveen’s journey to the priesthood
On a day when the Church in Papua New Guinea celebrated the feast of its first saint, another beautiful chapter of faith unfolded in the Diocese of Vanimo.
Before a joyful congregation gathered at St. Luke Catholic Church, Bishop Francis Meli ordained Fr. Praveen S. Stanley, to the priesthood, marking a milestone not only in his life but also in the history of the local Church.
He is the first missionary of the Institute of the Incarnate Word [IVE] from outside Papua New Guinea to be ordained in the Diocese of Vanimo.
His path to the altar began far away in Sri Lanka, where God first planted the seed of a missionary vocation in his heart. That calling eventually led him across borders and cultures, bringing him to Papua New Guinea, where he discovered a people who would become more than those he served, they became his family.
Unlike many newly ordained priests, Fr. Praveen celebrated this sacred day without his immediate family by his side. Although his mother was unable to travel for the occasion, her absence did not overshadow the joy of the moment. The people of Vanimo embraced him with the warmth of parents, siblings, and lifelong friends, reminding everyone that the family of God reaches far beyond blood ties.
The celebration reflected the unity of the Church. Priests, religious, parishioners, and fellow missionaries came together in prayer, while traditional songs and cultural dances expressed the deep gratitude of a community welcoming one of its own into the priesthood.
In his homily, Bishop Francis Meli encouraged the new priest to remain close to Christ, serve with humility, and lead God's people with a joyful and generous heart. Inspired by the witness of Saint Peter To'Rot, Fr. Praveen now begins his ministry with the same missionary spirit that first led him from his homeland.
His story is a reminder that answering God's call often requires leaving familiar places behind. Yet those who give their lives in service to the Gospel discover that every sacrifice is met with an even greater gift, a new home, a new family, and countless hearts to love in Christ.
The Diocese of Vanimo rejoices with Fr. Praveen and prays that his priesthood will be a lasting sign of hope, faith, and God's enduring love for His people.
