The Papua New Guinea Working Group was established by National Council in Australia to strengthen and support the re-establishment of the Society in Papua New Guinea at the request of the International Territorial Vice President Oceania.

In August 2025, Papua New Guinea Working Group members Tim McKenna and Robin Osborne conducted a visit to Australia’s closest neighbouring country to gather first-hand information and renew relationships in Papua New Guinea’s Dioceses of Alotau and Kavieng.

When airstrip repairs in Alotau grounded flights, the visitors had to adapt their itinerary. Fortunately, they were able to connect with Alotau Vincentians via videoconference and, as they had arranged for two Vincentians from Manus and Kavieng to join them in Port Moresby, the change still allowed for opportunities to connect with Vincentians across the country. They heard stories of local Members’ works including one Conference that travels by boat to visit the sick and elderly. Although Alotau could not be reached in person, the Society clearly showed vitality, strong leadership, and genuine Vincentian spirit and the new Vincentian Bishop confirming he wishes the Vincentian Family to prosper in the Alotau Diocese.

A highlight for Tim was reconnecting with two local Members who are also Council Presidents, with Tim commenting, “their dedication demonstrated the commitment that sustains the Society across Papua New Guinea.” Both Tim and Robin are hopeful for the future of the Society in Papua New Guinea; Robin sharing that he is looking forward to “seeing how we can support local Members in furthering their work at the community level and moving towards establishing a National Council.”

While in Papua New Guinea, Tim and Robin also met with local Church leaders including the Archbishop of Madang, the Secretary General of the Catholic Bishops Conference, and the Acting Director of Caritas Papua New Guinea. These meetings confirmed a shared vision for collaboration in faith-based social outreach across the country. Through every encounter, one message stood out: Vincentian service in Papua New Guinea remains vibrant and deeply valued – even when travel, communication or distance make the work challenging.
The Papua New Guinea Working Group will continue to build these connections throughout 2026 and beyond, working alongside Church partners and local leaders to support training, communication and growth. What began as a week of disrupted plans became a story of renewed hope – a reminder that the Vincentian mission can thrive across any distance, powered by faith, friendship and service.