Sabama, Port Moresby: Nestled between two roads, the little parish of Mary Help of Christians, Sabama, came alive on Sunday, 10 August 2025, as newly ordained priest Fr. Francis Mallol SDB celebrated his First Mass at 8:30am. The celebration was centered on the theme: Forming Youth through the Preventive System of Don Bosco, Realizing God’s Call to Religious and Christian Family Vocations.
Concelebrating with Fr. Francis were Fr. Ambrose Pereira SDB, Parish Priest, and Fr. Silvester Kuli SDB. The Eucharistic celebration was enhanced by the parish choir’s lively and harmonious singing, which created a solemn and uplifting spiritual atmosphere. Local cultural dances added a vibrant touch. The entrance procession was led by the St. Francis Xavier Community, the offertory procession by the St. Dominic Savio Community from Kirakira, and the recessional procession by the St. John the Baptist Engan Community.
Reflecting on the Gospel, Fr. Francis urged the faithful to seek their true treasure in God. He emphasized three key points:
- Always be ready.
- Your Baptism calls you to witness to Christ.
- Faith is an essential element of life.
He encouraged parishioners to live good Catholic lives and to regularize their marriages so they could receive God’s blessings. 'Remine in my Love' was the Ordination motto of Fr Francis and he reminded the people that the love of God is constant and unending.
The liturgical celebration was broadcast live on 103.5 FM and livestreamed by the Radio Maria Papua New Guinea team.
Fr. Francis grew up in the parish of Mary Help of Christians, Sabama. He attended St. Therese Primary School, Badili, De La Salle Secondary School, Bomana, Don Bosco Technical School, Gabutu, and Don Bosco Technological Institute, Boroko. As a youth, he was active in the Knights of the Altar, the parish youth club, and the music ministry. His Salesian formation took him to the Philippines and later to the Holy Land in Jerusalem. He was ordained a priest on 6 August 2025 at the Shrine of Mary Help of Christians, Boroko.
A festive celebration followed, featuring cultural dances from West New Britain and Morobe, as well as performances from a variety of other groups. The colorful program was warmly appreciated by the community.
Addressing Fr. Francis, Mrs. Louisa Wambon said, “You are a strong person. You have not looked back. God bless you and your mission.”
Preparations for the event began several months ago. “Besides the external arrangements, parishioners also prepared themselves spiritually through prayer, recollections, and the Sacrament of Reconciliation, disposing themselves to receive God’s grace during this unique event,” said Fr. Ambrose Pereira SDB, Parish Priest.
Despite the violence and the abuse, the addiction and the domination, the parish of Sabama has given a priest to the church, a Salesian to the Congregation and a man of God to the people. May his example enable other men and women say ‘Yes’ to the call of God. We pray that our Catholic men and women will shine out as little lights amidst the darkness that surrounds them. Keep us in your prayers.
