The Catholic Professionals Society (CPS) of Papua New Guinea has marked a year of institutional growth, spiritual formation, and expanding national initiatives, while preparing for a leadership transition ahead of its 2027 elections.
Presenting the President's Report at the Society's 2026 Annual General Meeting, CPS President Paul Harricknen described the past year as one of renewal and succession, pointing out achievements in governance, membership growth, and faith-based leadership development.
"Over the past year we have strengthened our governance, commissioned our Rule of Life, expanded our membership, developed new formation programs, launched important national initiatives, and positioned the Society for sustainable growth.”
An important milestone reached was the commissioning of the Society's Rule of Life in February 2026, followed by induction workshops and a spiritual retreat.
The framework is designed to help members integrate Catholic faith, ethical leadership, and professional excellence into their daily lives.
The Society plans to extend the program to its diocesan chapters in Lae, Alotau, and Madang.
Membership has grown to 161 members across five chapters, with renewed interest from Lae and Alotau reflecting increasing support for the Society's mission of promoting servant leadership and professional integrity within the Church and the wider community.
The Society is also reviving its Catholic Platform Project ahead of the 2027 National General Election.
This project aims to provide Catholic-inspired values and principles to guide candidates, voters, and public discussion, while encouraging ethical leadership and informed civic participation.
Building on the canonisation of Saint Peter ToRot in 2025, CPS has launched a quarterly formation series to strengthen Catholic identity and encourage members to live out their faith in public life.
The Society has also expanded its communication efforts through its Voice of the Church program on Radio Maria and its monthly newsletter, The Catholic Professional.
Work is also underway to develop an official CPS website to improve communication and engagement with members.
Institutionally, CPS achieved incorporation and secured a Certificate of Good Standing under the amended IPA Act, strengthening its legal and governance framework.
Among its advocacy priorities, the Society continues to call for the establishment of a National Constitution Day to promote civic responsibility, constitutional awareness, and greater respect for Papua New Guinea's democratic institutions.
During the meeting, members endorsed Dame Jean Kekedo for honorary membership in recognition of her lifelong service to the Church and the people of Papua New Guinea.
Looking ahead, Harricknen announced he will not seek re-election when the current Board's term concludes in 2027, describing the coming year as an important period of succession planning.
"Leadership is a sacred trust entrusted to us for a season, and every season calls for renewal.”
“I am confident that God is already preparing new leaders who will continue to build upon the foundations we have laid together.”
As it prepares for its next chapter, the Catholic Professionals Society says it remains committed to forming professionals who embody integrity, competence, servant leadership, and a commitment to the common good, both within the Church and in workplaces, communities, and public life across Papua New Guinea.
