A Journey of Faith and Service: Br Dominic Tsibuen Celebrates 25 Years as a Marist Brother

On 8 November, Br Dominic Tsibuen marked a beautiful milestone - 25 years as a Marist Brother. His Silver Jubilee is a celebration not only of years, but of a life lived with faith, purpose, and a kindness that has touched many.

Brothers gathered with the two priests Fr Willy and Benjamin in front of the St Marcellin Chapel

As a young student at Hutjena High School, Dominic was taught by three Marist Brothers who left a lasting impression on him - Br Julian Hakumin, who was then Principal, Br Bernard McGrath, and Malcolm Hall. In 1995, they taught Religious Education, Science, and Mathematics, but what stayed with Br Dominic most was not just their lessons, but their gentleness, humility, and the quiet example of their lives.

Congratulations, Br Dominic!

Before graduating from Grade 10, Dominic gathered the courage to tell Br Julian that he wanted to join the Brothers. Br Julian smiled and said simply, “We will help you if you come back after some years when you are sure.”

Time passed, and Br Dominic thought that was the end of it.

Br Chris Wills presenting tribute from the Provincial

Three years later, as he was completing his matriculation studies, fate intervened. Br Julian happened to meet him again and asked, “Were you the one who came to see me a few years ago about joining us?” When Br Dominic said yes, Br Julian replied, “Are you still interested?” And true to the Marian spirit, Br Dominic said yes once again.

Soon after, Br Julian connected him with the Vocation Director, and Br Bernard McGrath visited Dominic’s home with a letter of inquiry - an invitation that Dominic eagerly accepted.

Br John Hazelman presenting a Samoan Ula, garland symbolising a Brotherhood in connection to community and communion with people in the mission

In 1999, he began his formation at the Tsiroge Formation Centre in Bougainville, starting with the aspirancy and postulancy programs. The following two years, 2000 and 2001, he continued his formation in Fiji, completing his novitiate and taking his first vows as a Marist Brother.

After his First Vows, Br Dominic spent six months at Divine Word University before continuing his studies at MAPAC (Marist Asia-Pacific Center). On returning to the District, he was appointed to St Joseph’s School, Mabiri. He later served at St Marcellin High School, Burui (East Sepik Province) for two years, and during that time also returned to Lomeri, Fiji, for a six-month period.

Br John thanking Br Dominic for his service and friendship

Br Finan Valei, the event host of the day!

In 2008, Br Dominic began his ministry at St Joseph’s Tenaru in the Solomon Islands - a place that would become a recurring home in his journey. After a year teaching at Arawa High School in Bougainville, he was again appointed to St Joseph’s Tenaru, and later to St Joseph’s Mabiri in 2014–2015. From 2016 to 2017, he served at St Dominic’s Rural Training Centre at Vanga Point and then assisted at the Laumanasa Postulancy for two years.

Br Mark Kenatsi giving the words of thanks of behalf of the Brothers

In 2020, he returned once more to St Joseph’s Tenaru, continuing his ministry in education and formation. Last year he was appointed the Principal of St Joseph's School in Mabiri. Today, Br Dominic is a valued member of the Port Moresby Community.

Br Simon Serero thanking Br Dominic for his 25 years of service

Twenty-five years on, Br Dominic looks back on his journey with gratitude - for the Brothers who inspired him, the faith that has sustained him, and the many lives he has touched with his gentleness and quiet strength.

Br Dominic, with his brother Paschal, thanking his family for their support

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