WENO, Chuuk State — December 4, 2025 — His Excellency Wesley W. Simina, President of the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM), together with First Lady Ancelly Simina, attended the ordination ceremony of Reverend DJ Martin, held on December 3, 2025, at St. Francis Xavier Church in Kuttu, Mortlock Islands.
Accompanying the President were Congressman Fabian Nimea, Special Advisor Kandhi A. Elieisar, and the Secretary of Health and Social Affairs, Marcus Samo.
The ceremony began with a solemn church service led by Bishop Julio Angkel, joined by Vicar General Kelly Yalmadau, seminarians, and members of the Chuuk church clergy. The service was further enriched by beautiful church hymns offered by parish and community groups, creating a deeply meaningful and prayerful atmosphere.
Following the ordination ritual, the celebration continued with traditional island songs dedicated to the newly ordained priest, Father DJ Martin. Communities from Chuuk and the Mortlock Islands delivered special performances that showcased unity, cultural pride, and shared joy across the region. The Honorable Istaro Mwarike, Mayor of Moch and President of the Mortlocks Parish, delivered the opening statement, warmly welcoming guests and offering a heartfelt reflection on Father DJ’s calling and spiritual journey—recounting how his dedication to faith and service had been evident since his early years. His remarks set a meaningful and uplifting tone for the celebration that followed.
President Simina and his delegation joined the festivities, participating in lively songs, traditional entertainment, and the presentation of gifts in honor of Father DJ and the Kuttu community.
In his remarks, President Simina congratulated Father DJ, wished him success in his spiritual mission, and reflected on their past encounters during Father DJ’s years of seminary formation. President Simina concluded by pledging monetary assistance to the singing groups from the sub-parishes in Chuuk and Weno that participated in the celebrations.
Congressman Fabian S.Nimea extended his congratulations to Father DJ and the Kuttu community and announced a donation of 500 sacks of rice to assist the community following the recent sea inundation. He also affirmed that his office stands ready to provide further support.
Also in attendance were the Vice Speaker of Congress, the Honorable Robson Romolow; Floor Leader, the Honorable Julio Marar; Governor of Chuuk State, the Honorable Alexander R. Narruhn, and First Lady; Floor Leader of the Chuuk State Legislature, the Honorable Wayne Olap; as well as traditional leaders, church leaders, and community representatives who gathered to witness and celebrate this significant spiritual milestone.
The Office of the President extends its heartfelt congratulations to Father DJ Martin and expresses deep appreciation to Bishop Angkel, the clergy, and the people of Kuttu for their warm hospitality and steadfast commitment to faith and service. The Office also offers its warm congratulations to Bishop Angkel on the anniversary of his own ordination—celebrated on the Feast of St. Francis Xavier on December 3, marking his ordination on December 3, 1983—and commemorating his 42 years of enduring leadership and dedicated service to the Catholic community across the FSM.
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