Diocese of Aitape
Papua New Guinea
 
The Diocese of Aitape is home to more than 166,000 Catholics—about 75% of the population—spread across 33 parishes. Our mission territory extends over a vast area of approximately 13,117 km², from coastal regions to steep and forested mountains. Our 21 priests, religious and laity fulfil their duties in a spirit of shared responsibility. 
 
While the Church continues to grow, we face many challenges—difficult terrain, financial struggles, shortage of personnel, malaria, poor communication routes, etc. These hardships often prevent our faithful from receiving the sacraments regularly. At times, our priests must walk for days to reach remote communities.  
 
Our people are materially poor but rich in faith and love for the Church. They generously support the mission with what they have, mainly produce from their gardens, but they are not able to contribute financially. Many of our parish facilities are in very poor condition. In several communities, the Holy Mass is celebrated in simple structures made of bush materials with thatched roofs. There is an urgent need to build more safe and dignified places of worship where the faithful can gather and encounter the Lord. We also need more missionaries. Many young men are willing to discern their vocation to the diocesan priesthood, but we lack the financial means to support their formation.
 
Despite these challenges, the Diocese is engaged in education, healthcare, vocational training, care for school dropouts, and pastoral and evangelization programs. These ministries are vital signs of Christ’s presence among our people, and we seek your help to sustain and strengthen them. We have dedicated the years 2025 and 2026 as Years of Eucharistic Renewal in the diocese. We are called to give Jesus to others. As the people of the Eucharist, you too can be part of our humble effort to give Jesus to our people. We humbly ask for your prayers and financial support. Every gift, no matter how small, makes a real difference. “Acts of love and kindness never die, but in the lives of others they multiply”.
 
May God bless you abundantly and reward your generosity.
Yours in Jesus Christ
 
Most Rev. Siby Mathew Peedikayil, HGN
Bishop of Aitape