I am originally from Papua New Guinea, and I am currently taking part in my Overseas Training Program (OTP)—the cross-cultural formation experience of the Society of the Divine Word—in Kenya. Being here has deepened my desire to serve as an SVD missionary priest in the future.

I arrived in Kenya in June 2024, and right away I was struck by the lively and expressive faith of the people. I had many eye-opening moments, especially witnessing how dynamic cultural traditions are woven into the Church’s life. People sing, dance, shout, and the women make joyful ululations during Mass. I truly admire the people here because they are alive in Christ—the Church is alive in Christ.

My first months in Kenya brought both joys and challenges. The reality was different from what I had imagined, and at first I felt shocked—especially with the food and the social lifestyle, like how many people marry young. One of my biggest challenges has been adjusting to new foods and navigating the roads. I sometimes joke that driving in Kenya might be one of the hardest in the world! But what balances all this is the openness and warmth of the Kenyan people. I enjoy their ceremonies, celebrations, and the beauty of the land—the highlands, the nature, the animals.

The way people here live their faith inspires me every day. Their unique cultures enrich the Church through traditional songs, attire, drama, and dance. I am especially touched by their generosity in giving offerings, called sadaka, and by the deep respect they show to priests. Even as a seminarian leading Communion services in the outstations, I always find people waiting eagerly to hear the Word of God and to receive Communion. Bringing the Eucharist to those who need it most—this is one of my greatest joys.

I remember one Sunday when I traveled with a catechist to a community that had no church building. We held the service outside an old classroom. When I began preaching, I realized the people didn’t understand English, and I felt confused because everything I prepared was in English. The service went long because someone translated my homily—but it became a beautiful moment of connection across cultures.

Now I am assisting a priest in the rural highlands. I help with Communion services and visit Catholic communities during the week. Every Sunday, when I go for services, I feel motivated—I feel like a missionary. I have already visited communities in different areas, including Nairobi. I am grateful for our SVD confreres here, who openly share their experiences with me and accompany me in my formation.
I also take part in small parish projects: helping with parking, visiting students in schools, and tending the garden. I’m learning Kiswahili and enjoy interacting with children and parishioners. Through all this, I feel strongly that Jesus is appointing me for His project—to serve as an SVD priest. I feel grateful and happy for His call.

My missionary spirit began long before I came to Kenya. Back in Papua New Guinea, I had many pastoral experiences in villages, parishes, and outstations. I learned to live among people, prepare Sunday services, and walk with them in faith. That experience is helping me now, because pastoral life here also means going out, meeting people, and being with them. The most influential person in my formation has been my father, who is a catechist. Whenever people appreciate my preaching or the way I relate to them, I know it is because I have been well formed—first at home, then in my SVD formation.
Everything I am learning in Kenya will stay with me for the rest of my life. I will use these skills and experiences wherever I am sent for mission.

To others who are discerning their vocation, I say: be open to God’s call. Don’t rely only on what you see on the internet or hear in rumors. Come and see—experience the reality yourself, and be part of God’s loving people.