By Adam Awape
KAGUA, Southern Highlands Province – June 24, 2026: Hundreds of Catholic youths from the districts of Ialibu-Pangia, Kagua-Erave and Imbongu marched peacefully through Kagua Station today, carrying a strong message of peace, unity and reconciliation during the ongoing Eastern Deanery Catholic Youth Convention.
The peaceful procession was led by Eastern Deanery Youth Chaplain Fr. Paul Leme and Eastern Deanery Youth Coordinator Adam Awape, with participants singing hymns, praying and calling for lasting peace across communities that have recently experienced conflict and division.
The week-long convention, running from June 22 to 26, commenced on Monday under the guidance of Fr. Onesmus Wambua OFM Cap, the Diocesan Youth Coordinator for the Mendi Diocese covering Southern Highlands and Hela Provinces.
The gathering has brought together young Catholics from across the Eastern Deanery to strengthen their faith while promoting unity, reconciliation and community healing.
Despite the challenges that have affected Kagua Central in recent months, youths from Ialibu-Pangia and Imbongu travelled to Kagua to stand in solidarity with their brothers and sisters, demonstrating that faith can unite communities beyond tribal, political and social differences.
Their participation has been widely praised by local residents, who described the convention as a timely reminder that young people can become ambassadors of peace and positive change.
Adding to the significance of the day, a heavy downpour soaked Kagua Station shortly after the peace march concluded.
Many participants and community members viewed the rain as a symbolic blessing, representing hope, renewal and God’s favour upon the people of Kagua as they continue to pursue lasting peace and reconciliation.
The convention will conclude on Friday, June 26, with a solemn closing Mass to be celebrated by The Most Rev. Bishop Donald Lippert OFM Cap, Bishop of the Mendi Diocese.
Church leaders have encouraged the youths to carry the spirit of the convention back to their respective communities by becoming instruments of peace, forgiveness and development, while continuing to promote harmony throughout the Eastern Deanery.
-Story and Pictures: Adam Awape, Eastern Deanery Youth Coordinator.