Historic Priestly Ordination in Papua New Guinea

PORT MORESBY, Papua New Guinea - On June 27, 2025, a momentous occasion unfolded at Martin de Porres Parish in Morata, Port Moresby, as the Montfort Missionaries celebrated the priestly ordination of Fr. Bienvenu LUKINU OWANGA, SMM, and Fr. Majoric MANIRAMBOGOYE, SMM. This event marks the first time Montfort Missionaries have been ordained on Papua New Guinean soil—a significant milestone in the congregation’s missionary journey and the Catholic Church’s growth in the region.

The solemn Mass was presided over by His Eminence Cardinal John RIBAT, MSC, Archbishop of Port Moresby, who led a joyful assembly of clergy, religious, Montfort Associates, and faithful from across the Archdiocese. Also in attendance were Bishop Rozario MENEZES, SMM, of the Diocese of Lae; Fr. Robert PERIANAYAGAM, SMM, Delegation Superior of PNG; and Fr. Luigi GRITTI, SMM, Director for Safeguarding from Rome, among many others.

Fr. Bienvenu, from the Democratic Republic of Congo, and Fr. Majoric, from Burundi, received comprehensive formation and pastoral training in countries such as the DRC, France, Burundi, the Philippines and PNG. Their ordination in PNG reflects a deepening commitment to serving local communities with missionary zeal, pastoral love, and the spiritual charism of St. Louis-Marie de Montfort.

The Montfort Missionaries, known for their dedication to pastoral care, education, spiritual formation, and missionary outreach, regard this ordination as a pivotal moment in strengthening their mission in Papua New Guinea.

In his homily, Cardinal RIBAT highlighted the profound significance of the occasion for both the Montfortian family and the broader Church in PNG. He urged the newly ordained priests to embrace their vocation with courage, humility, and deep faith, emphasizing the life-giving and transformative nature of their priestly ministry.

The ordination of Fr. Bienvenu and Fr. Majoric opens a new chapter for the Montfort Missionaries in PNG, building deeper bonds with the local Church and reaffirming their commitment to evangelization and service. As these two priests begin their ministry, they do so with the prayers and blessings of the Montfortian Family and the wider Catholic community.

The Montfort Missionaries humbly request continued prayers for Fr. Bienvenu and Fr. Majoric, as well as for the ongoing growth and fruitfulness of their mission throughout Papua New Guinea.