Representatives of the Catholic Church in the Pacific Islands, led by the President of the Episcopal Conference of the Pacific (CEPAC), Archbishop Ryan Jimenez of Agaña, met with several Vatican Dicasteries in early June to present the findings of a comprehensive review of the Pacific Regional Seminary (PRS) and to seek guidance and support for its future development.

The Pacific Regional Seminary of St. Peter Chanel, located in Suva, Fiji, is the only regional seminary serving the Church across Polynesia, Melanesia, and Micronesia. Established in 1970 and opened to seminarians in 1972, it has played a vital role in the formation of local clergy in the region.

The visit to Rome, held on 9–10 June, brought together Archbishop Jimenez, Adjunct Professor Susan Pascoe, chair of the PRS Review Team, Fr. Friedrich Bechina, OSR, and Fr. Okusitino Ulupano, Rector of the Seminary. Their purpose was to present the recommendations of a review initiated by CEPAC in 2025 and to strengthen collaboration with the Holy See in the ongoing renewal of priestly formation in the Pacific.

 

Dialogue with the Dicastery for Evangelization

The delegation began its meetings at the Dicastery for Evangelization (formerly Propaganda Fide), where they met with Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle, Prefect. The group presented the review report, outlining both the strengths of the Seminary and areas identified for development.

Cardinal Tagle emphasized the importance of maintaining high standards in seminary formation while remaining attentive to cultural and historical contexts. He underlined the central role of spiritual formation and accompaniment in fostering the interior life of seminarians, noting that such formation is essential for the growth of authentic pastoral leaders.

The discussion also touched on practical considerations, including possible avenues of support for the Seminary through the Society of St. Peter the Apostle and other mission-related initiatives.

 

Support from the Pontifical Mission Societies

In a subsequent meeting with Fr. Tadeusz Nowak, Secretary General of the Pontifical Mission Societies, the delegation received encouragement for the mission of forming local clergy in the Pacific. Fr. Nowak expressed openness to supporting specific initiatives, particularly those that respond to concrete pastoral needs.

He highlighted the importance of well-prepared proposals, including detailed plans and local contributions, noting that collaborative efforts between local Churches and international partners are key to sustainable development.

A further meeting with Fr. Guy Bognon, Secretary of the Society of St. Peter the Apostle, provided practical guidance on funding opportunities. He encouraged the Seminary to renew its annual applications for support for seminarians and to consider carefully prioritized requests for extraordinary funding, such as infrastructure improvements.

 

Formation and governance discussed with the Dicastery for the Clergy

The delegation also met with officials of the Dicastery for the Clergy, including Msgr. Simone Renna. Discussions focused on the importance of formation as a lifelong journey, extending beyond ordination, and encompassing human, spiritual, intellectual, and pastoral dimensions.

Particular emphasis was placed on the formation of formators, the integration of cultural contexts into seminary life, and the need for clear governance structures. The Dicastery highlighted the value of synodal approaches, including discernment practices and broader participation in the life of the seminary.

The officials also encouraged ongoing formation opportunities in Rome and expressed openness to further collaboration, including possible on-site programs in the Pacific region.

 

Strengthening academic collaboration

During the visit, Fr. Ulupano also met with representatives of the Pontifical Urbaniana University to explore the possibility of formal affiliation with the Seminary. The discussions clarified key roles in academic governance and indicated that, with the required documentation, affiliation could be achieved within a relatively short timeframe.

 

A shared commitment to the future

The meetings were marked by a spirit of openness and mutual support. Vatican officials acknowledged the significant contribution of the Pacific Regional Seminary to the life of the Church in Oceania while encouraging continued development in response to contemporary challenges.

The visit reflects CEPAC’s commitment to strengthening local priestly formation and fostering a Church that is both rooted in its cultural context and fully engaged with the universal mission of the Church.

As Archbishop Jimenez and his delegation continue to guide the implementation of the review’s recommendations, the collaboration with the Holy See signals a renewed commitment to forming priests capable of serving the diverse and dynamic communities of the Pacific.