Fr Michael Nguyen SVD who has been teaching at the Good Shepherd Seminary in the Archdiocese of Mount Hagen, Papua New Guinea this year, has been appointed Dean of Studies for the next academic year, and says he’s enjoying the “vibrant tapestry” of PNG, a place he now calls home.

Fr Michael, originally from Vietnam, is a member of the SVD Australia Province, working in Mount Hagen Archdiocese at the request of Rev. Clement Papa, former Rector of Good Shepherd Seminary.

“My primary role in PNG involves teaching at the Good Shepherd Seminary,” he says. “The commitment to education among the seminarians is commendable. My weekends are dedicated to pastoral activities in PNG villages.”

Fr Michael says he has enjoyed getting to know the people and the culture over the last year.

He says PNG, nestled north of Australia and east of Indonesia, is a mosaic of diverse tribes, each with its own language, unique local religions, and distinct cultural practices encompassing food, attire, and arts.

“The Divine Word Missionaries established their presence on the island in 1896, and with the contributions of the Missionaries of the Sacred Heart (MSC), the Marist Brothers, and other Christian denominations, PNG evolved into a predominantly Christian nation,” he says.

A common thread connecting the varied tribes is Pidgin, the main language of PNG. Sweet potatoes and sago form the cornerstone of their diet, complemented by vegetables, taro, corn, bananas, pineapples, sugarcanes and papayas. Festivals often feature pork or chicken, with the value of pigs particularly significant in matrimonial negotiations. The wealthier the bride, the more pigs demanded in dowry.

Having endured colonisation by Germany, the Netherlands, the UK, and Japan, PNG found itself under Australian rule post-World War II. On September 16, 1975, PNG gained independence, marking the beginning of PNG's self-governance. While now part of the British Commonwealth, PNG retains a deep connection to tribal roots, influencing local sentiments.

“The people of PNG exude warmth and hospitality,” he says. “Encountering strangers prompts curious stares and genuine expressions of surprise. The majority reside in villages, with trips to town involving walking barefoot or in sandals, carrying necessities in woven bilums slung over shoulders, a common sight along PNG roads.”

Fr Michael says a distinctive aspect of PNG society is the sight of young people wielding long bush-knives while traversing streets.

“Though primarily tools for daily chores, to outsiders, the spectacle can be disconcerting. Even after nearly a year, I find myself not fully acclimated to this unique facet of PNG culture,” he says.

“Like any culture, PNG's way of life is intricately tied to its environment. Agriculture reigns supreme in this tropical haven, with gardens forming the backbone of PNG culture. These gardens yield corn, sweet potatoes, tomatoes, fruits, and staples for daily meals. Each tribe boasts unique clothing and language, coupled with distinct beliefs.

“For PNG inhabitants, life revolves around the present day. Tomorrow means tending to gardens, harvesting, and bringing home sustenance. In their simplicity, PNG people find joy in laughter, a standout trait of this island community. Despite limited material resources, there's an absence of homelessness throughout the country, a testament to the intrinsic kindness prevailing.”

Reflecting on his year in PNG, Fr Michael says he’s still captivated by its unique culture.

“Stepping into the PNG milieu is akin to entering a sacred garden. Learning the language, embracing cultural nuances, and adapting to a life of simplicity are part of this transformative journey,” he sais.

“For example, mi mas lainim kaikai kaokao/I must learn to enjoy sweet potatoes, the staple diet of the people in the highlands. Just as Moses removed his sandals on holy ground, I, too, shed preconceived notions to embrace the laughter-filled culture of PNG.

“In this land where material comforts are limited, I am called to integrate into the laughter-infused culture of PNG, all while leaving behind unnecessary baggage for a missionary life filled with joy alongside the people of PNG. Above all, I keep reminding myself of my mission in this land is to share the Good News with the people of Niugini.

“As always, missionaries require the support and prayers of all for resilience and humility in serving the faithful in unfamiliar territories.”

With the academic year now come to a close, Fr Michael is currently on a break after what he terms “a fruitful year filled with surprises”.

When the seminary resumes in January, Fr Michael will take up his new appointment as Dean of Studies.

“This significant responsibility arose from the departure of the former dean, who was leaving the office to pursue further studies in Rome,” he says.

“Initially hesitant about this new mission assignment, I found solace and guidance in the wisdom of the Holy Spirit and chose to embrace the challenge that lay ahead with a spirit of determination and commitment."

PHOTOS: Fr Michael Nguyen SVD pictured in Papua New Guinea, where he is engaged in seminary teaching and pastoral activities in the villages.