1898 PNG-SI Delegation Day
austraLasia #1898

'Stay with me, son'!: PNG-SI Delegation Day

PORT MORESBY: 8th July 2007 -- The Salesian Delegation of Papua New Guinea and Solomon Islands celebrated their Delegation Day on 7th July, 2007 at the Delegation House, Port Moresby, PNG.
    “It’s a day of gratitude to the Father and to each other.  It is also a time of gratitude to Fr. Luciano Odorico, the delegate of Papua New Guinea and Solomon Islands and to all the members of the Delegation”, said Fr. Andrew Wong, Provincial, as he addressed the 40 Salesians and aspirants at a very lively and well animated Eucharistic celebration.  Reflecting on the readings and on the life of sacrifice of Blessed Peter To Rot (proto-martyr from PNG), he reminded the congregation that there is greater merit in being than in doing.  In recalling the words of the Rector Major, he said, “We run the risk of loosing our identity, if we only focus on our works of charity”.  He encouraged the Salesians to be role models and examples for the young concluding with a possible plea of the Lord - “Stay with me Son !”. 
    At the interaction amongst the confreres issues were clarified.  Fr. Luciano Odorico, reminded the confreres of the commitment to open a presence in the Diocese of Alatau in 2009 and the need to be open to cater to youth at risk.
    Enjoyable and entertaining songs, dance items and jokes by confreres and aspirants then followed.  Delicious ‘pizza’ and a host of tasty dishes filled the table.  Basketball, volleyball, soccer and tug-of-war were then organized by Bro. Emil Vake and his team. It was a delight to have Bishop Francesco Panfilo join in the games.  The Bosco team was declared the final winners at the end of a very enjoyable afternoon.
    “I have been struck by two aspects: one GC25: Return to Don Bosco and two: the Rome Letter of Don Bosco”, said Fr. Odorico as he addressed the confreres at the Good Night.  “It has been a day of joy and trust, of spirituality and Salesian growth”, he concluded.

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