TAVUR 2011 October


TAVUR 2011 October

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The newsletter of the Salesian delegation of Papua New Guinea and the Solomon Islands
15th October, 2011
Dear friends,
Peace be with you!
Peace to all of you. Once again an
occasion of grace and blessings. I had
attended the installation of the new
Archbishop of Rabaul, our very own
Bishop Francesco Panfilo sdb. It was a
moving experienced to join with 80
clergy and eight bishops, without
counting the invited guests, the reli-
gious sisters and brothers, the semi-
narians and the faithful.
The last week of August was the Missionary course offered by
the Department of the Mission, with Fr. Klement, Fr. Alfred and
the FMAs. It was more a reflection and sharing of ideas and
reflections on the initial proclamation of the Gospel. I also
joined the region in coming together at Manila for the curato-
rium. Fr. Andy and some provincials were present. We had an
update of the status of the Seminaryo ng Don Bosco and the
DBCS. Time was also allotted to talk about the formation of
the lay brothers. Prior to the curatorium, I was privileged to
attend the Symposium on Youth Ministry. It was presented by
Fr. Fabio Attard sdb, our councilor for Youth Ministry, Fr.
Marty Macasaet who came here this year to preach our re-
treat; and a lay man who dedicated his life for Campus Minis-
try.
Since the month of October is dedicated for the missions, I
would like to share the beautiful message of our dear Rector
Major on the occasion of the 142nd Salesian Missionary Expe-
dition held on 25th September 2011 at Valdocco. I would like
to address this thought not mainly to the SDBs but to our Sale-
sian Family.
Fr. Pascual capsulizes the real meaning of „missio ad gentes’
in this words: “Going on to the mission ‘ad gentes’ means
emptying oneself of everything that can separate us from the
people to whom we are sent, of our presumptions, our
knowhow, our qualifications, our economic means, etc., and
to begin in humility like a child to learn their language, to
know their culture, to appreciate all that they have that is
good, true, beautiful, in a word to look at them as Christ has
loved them giving himself for them.”
Emptying of oneself is of equal meaning to giving of oneself
to others. A certain Geraldine Marchal narrates this true
story of her: „Birthday Memories‟ - not of her own but one of
her Dad‟s. One day her Dad gave her a beautiful stuffed
tiger. She jumped up and down with joy. „But Daddy it‟s
your birthday, not mine. Why are you giving me a birthday
present? I should give you one. Her Dad replied: „you have
given me a gift. It is being so happy‟. Geraldine still has
that stuffed tiger: but the most precious
gift her father gave that day was an in-
sight into the JOY of GIVING. The Lord
himself said: „There is more happiness
in giving than receiving‟.
I wish that all of us, salesians and mem-
bes of the salesian family would really
be happy in giving of our time, skills and
talents for the service of our young peo-
ple, to become a true missionary within
our country or outside our country; one
who is ready to empty oneself and capa-
ble of giving ones service with joy.
Let us entrust all our missionaries working abroad to our
Blessed Mother, Help of Christians. Being the month of the
Holy Rosary, may she be our constant guide and teacher in
all our undertakings. God bless all of you.
Affectionately,
- Fr. Raffy Galve sdb, Delegate PNG-SI
May He bless you abundantly
all the days of your life and grant you
grace, strength and wisdom to lead and
guide the Delegation the ‘Don Bosco Way’
Birthday Wishes
Fr. Raffy Galve sdb
PNG-SI Delegate
INSIDE:
2: EAO Mission Study Days
3: Youth Gathering at Kungi
4: Tetere News Bits
5: Alive and Growing
6 & 7: The Digital Image
8: Love the Church
9: An experience of Faith
10 & 11: The Prodigal Son
12: Alter Christus
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EAO
Mission Study
Days
- Fr. John Cabrido sdb
PORT MORESBY: 29th August 2011 -- The EAO set of Mis-
sion Study Days concluded on 25th August with the Oceania
group (Australia, Melanesia, Polynesia) in Port Moresby. It
was a preparation for the Missions Teams to meet in Rome,
then in Piedmont, and for the 142nd Annual Mission Send-off,
in September.
The Mission Study Days, which began in Sampran, Thailand,
and concluded in Port Moresby, PNG, focused on 'first procla-
mation' of the Gospel, and what it means in local contexts.
The same theme was repeated throughout the continents.
This deeper, contextual approach seeks to identify the real
challenges and also new insights and perspectives arising
from practice.
The situation for initial proclamation in Oceania is vastly differ-
ent than that for East Asia - and indeed within 'Oceania',
which includes at least Australia and New Zealand, Melanesia
and Polynesia, the situation is again a varying one. These
differences were reflected in the contents, contributions and
responses of participants at the Oceania meeting. Perhaps
the one similarity between East Asia and Oceania was the
value of storytelling as a way of visualising proclamation in
practice.
The Oceania group was helped by a number of scholarly and
practical reflections by experts in the field - such as the talk by
Fr. Franco Zocca on initial proclamation within the
Melanesian (and specifically PNG) context; Fr. David
WIllis OP reflecting on rapid secularisation especially
in societies (again largely in the Melanesian context)
where people have moved from Stone Age to Digital
Age over a relatively short period of time; Fr. Elio
Capra SDB, an expert from Australia on the Catechu-
menal model; Fr. John Cabrido SDB who looked at
the situation in the Melanesian context. But there
were no lack of questions and reflections either on the
situation for Polynesia. One of the very real questions
in a part of the world which adopted Christianity al-
most totally, but less than 200 years ago, and with the
exception of Fiji, has very few non-Christians, is what
precisely 'first proclamation' could mean in such a
context.
Despite the fact that there are always more ques-
tions than there are answers, the Oceania group has
drawn up a synthesis of insights based on 4 Cs: Con-
text, Culture, Community, Christ, with some ideas re-
lating also to post-initial proclamation (based on the
same themes).
If readers wish to follow up on any of the materials
for both groups (East Asia and Oceania), all documen-
Vunabosco Blessings - Fr. Roger Miranda sdb
The rains cleared for a bright day on the 1st October, Feast of
St. Theresa of the Child Jesus, Patroness of the Missions.
The boarders then began their work parade - planting kaukau,
singapur and cleaning the surrounding area. At 9.00am, Fr.
Heraldo celebrated the boarding house mass in honor of this
great saint - St. Therese. Fr. Roger then blessed the new
School Truck after the mass - bringing joy to the boarders and
all present.
Fr. Roger Miranda sdb, Rector gave the year-end recollection
to the Grade 12 graduands. He spoke to them about the Pre-
ventive System of Don Bosco and highlighted the Fruits of the
Preventive System. He proposed to them young
people who have been raised to the altar - awaiting
their moment of their beatification and canonization.
While they prayed the rosary, confessions were
heard.
At 1.30pm, the graduation of the Short-course stu-
Left:
dents was held in the school gymnasium. Mr. Rich-
The MFM ard Buanga, the Deputy for Technical, organized the
short programme. Mr. Aaron Gibson, the MFM instructor
course
students
served as the Master of Ceremonies. Fr. Rector and
Fr. Clifford gave inspirational talks and awarded
them their certificates. Ms. Daphnee, one of the
students spoke on behalf of all the students.
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Youth Gathering Highlands Regional
- Fr. Albert Lennon sdb
at Kungi
KUMGI (PNG): 1st October 2011 -- The 11th Highlands
Regional youth gathering took place at Don Bosco Tech
Kumgi from 26th to 30th September 2011. The theme for the
gathering was „The light of Mary lights up our way‟. Over
500 youth from the five dioceses of Kundiawa, Mount
Hagen, Wabek, Mendi and Goroka gathered together to
celebrate Youth and Culture. These five dioceses belong to
six provinces in PNG. They are Simbu, Eastern highlands,
Western Highlands, Southern Highlands and the new prov-
inces of Hela and Jiwaka. Once in two years the Highlands
Regional Bishops Conference organizes the gathering to
rejuvenate the life of young people. So this year Don Bosco
Tech, Kumgi, was chosen as the hosting place in Simbu
province. The young people arrived early on Sunday to
take their place in Don Bosco.
The youth gathering was inaugurated by Bishop Anton
Bal, bishop of Kundiawa Diocese on 26th September. In the
opening mass the Bishop challenged the young people to
be agents of change in Society. He spoke about the need
of transformation and the need to nurture a Christian cul-
ture in the life of young people. He wished them an enjoy-
able spiritual week.
The youth from different provinces had a cultural show
for two days. They sang and danced in various rhythms
and tunes and revitalized their sense of culture. One of the
young persons in his introduction to the show thanked the
missionaries for uplifting the culture of the place. He said
that Christianity had entered through the culture:
"We see that lots of western traditional practices are
creeping in through politicians and people. The Catholic
Church is revitalizing the existing culture of the place and
that is where we feel at home. This cultural show is the
expression of our faith and we thank Pappa God for the
creation of nature and all the birds and animals in it".
Young people never get tired of singing and dancing
(traditionally called Waipa). One of the Mammas from the
place remarked: “Usually I see old people participating in
the traditional cultural show. Now I see all young people
participating in it. I am happy that they are learning to do it
well. Thank you fathers, brothers, sisters".
On the second day the young people had health talks on
HIV/AIDS by Nurses from Mingende hospital. The nurses
explained in Tok-Pisin the danger of this epidemic devas-
tating the lives of young people. The youth had endless
questions and clarifications on the issue. While thanking
the nurses one of the youth thanked the Catholic Church
for giving importance to the gift of life, care and concern for
the young and implementing health programs in their dio-
ceses. In
the eve-
ning of
the
same
day
there
was the
talent
contest
and en-
tertainment by
young people from
different dioceses. It
was an opportunity
to bring out the tal-
ents of young peo-
ple.
Another attraction
of the gathering was
the Miss Highlands
beauty contest! The
theme for the contest was youth, environment and cul-
ture. 16 young girls in traditional dress spoke about the
environment and culture. There were no cosmetics or
western fashion materials involved; they used natural re-
sources from the environment as ornaments and dress.
Another attraction of the program was a hot debate on
Sanguma (evil spirit) in PNG and the Catholic point of
view. The debate was moderated by Fr. George Mondia,
Deputy Rector of the minor seminary, Banz. In PNG the
highlands region is notorious for many sunguma-related
deaths and murder cases. It was an opportunity for young
people to understand the view of the church from the Bi-
ble and the Catechism of the Catholic Church.
The liturgical celebrations for all five days were well led
by youth from different dioceses. They also had an oppor-
tunity for a reconciliation service and many priests from
the dioceses were present to help the young people in
their spiritual needs.
On the final day Archbishop Douglas Young from
Mount Hagen highlighted the Church‟s vision for youth in
PNG. He reminded them of the vision-mission statement
for the youth which had been prepared by the Catholic
Bishops Conference and encouraged them to discover
their strength within to walk Christ‟s way. In the conclud-
ing mass he emphasized the need to build their own lives
as a beautiful gift to
God and the nation.
The youth enjoyed
the continuous Sale-
sian presence, hospi-
tality and the family
spirit. The Salesians
and Sisters of Charity
were available at all
times to make sure
the youth enjoy
their stay at
Don Bosco.
Within five days
the youth felt
they too were
'Bosconians'
belonging to
the family of
Don Bosco and
Church.
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Cl. Moise Paluku sdb
Tetere News Bits
especially the women committee for their industrial
contribution and excellent preparation to accommodate
that myriad of women, men and children. We admire
the patience and commitment of the women in joining
the program. We acknowledge the husbands and men
for their openness and support in allowing their wives
to happily enjoy the program. Everyone went back to
his home with new insight, giving a hope of being able
to give new life to her local church and community.
Fr. Micky and the Volunteers at a performance
Eight members of the Don Bosco Volunteer Group (DBVG)
arrived on the 15th August, 2011 together with Fr. Micky, sdb.
They spent three weeks with the DBRTC students - joining
happily in work, games and other school activities. Together
with the students they visited the Solomon Islands Parliament
House, the Solomon brewery and the Tenaru Waterfall. They
left on the 3rd September leaving an emptiness in the hearts
of all the staff and the students.
Inter-Parish Youth Camp. From an event to another,
the weekend of 16th to 19th September has also been
busy. These were youth from The Assumption of Mary
Parish-Ruavatu, Good Shepherd Parish-Red Beach,
and Christ the King Parish-Tetere. Tetere has hosted
more than 7 hundred young boys and girls for 4 days.
In reflect on the World Youth Day, all the invited speak-
ers have discussed on Planted and Built up in Jesus
Christ. Firm in the Faith as theme of the forum. Among
the orator, were invited Fr. Francis, sdb and Mr. Ber-
nard, former High Commissioner of SI to PNG. The
archbishop could not also leave his children away, He
said mass to them in which he blessed the soil the
youth have brought as symbol of Unity and oneness.
There were Taize‟s adoration, games, as well as voca-
Catholic Women’s Gathering. Over a thousand women,
gathered at Christ the King parish, Tetere for the five day
event. They hailed from 17 parishes of the three dioceses of
the Solomon Islands. The event commenced on 11th and
concluded on the 15th August, 2011 with the solemn celebra-
tion of the catholic women‟s patroness-Mary‟s Assumption.
Its only purpose was to unify and motivate the Solomon
Catholic women and give them an opportunity to learn from
each other‟s story through sharing and inputs. The theme for
the event was: Mary’s virtues empower women. This is the
fourth time that women come together. The first gathering
was in August 2005 in Ruavatu, this one encouraged women
to stand for their
rights and be-
come part of the
church activi-
ties, modeled on
Mary.
We
openly salute
the Christ the
King‟s parish
Priest, Fr. Mi-
chael Lap, sdb,
Right:
Participants
line up for
the Youth
Rally
tion promotion of all the congregations present in the
country, as reminded by the archbishop to all the
youths to join the consecrated life. On the sending out
mass, the parish priests have held to each youth coor-
dinator a plant growing in that mixed soil as memory of
the 2011 WYD. Briefly, we congratulate each of the
participants, the Salesian community of DonBosco
Tetere, the Salesians from DBTI Henderson, the FMA
sisters, the Sisters dela Pieta, DMI and other religious
congregation and lay people who have contributed for
the successful gathering of the inter-parish youth camp.
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- Maria Ivy Labradores, Lay Volunteer
Don Bosco:
ALIVE AND GROWING
It was a lovely day… not sunny and yet no dark clouds. God blessed us with a very fine
weather, festive and vibrant. Young and old were all excited and full of expectations as
seen in the faces of the students and their families for the event that will unfold on that
day.
The celebration started with a Holy Mass, officiated by Fr. Edwin Genovia, SDB the Prin-
cipal and Rector of the school. The Holy Mass was extraordinarily special since the stu-
dents prepared a traditional procession. In his homily, Fr. Edwin shared to the congrega-
tion mostly students and their family to live the spirit and ideals of St. John Bosco, mak-
ing them ALIVE AND GROWING in their midst that even if they will depart from the por-
tals of the school they will be a shining testament and a model of the teachings of Don
Bosco.
The day was marked with beautiful colors and resounding beats of the Kundu
since it was a day for the students to present their own cultures which was
handed on to them through the generations. It was a momentous occasion to
see parents and relatives of the students who went all the way to the school to
witness their children, dance and sing their well-respected cultures. Seeing the
students practice hard days before the event in the sweltering heat of the sun,
perfecting the songs and every step, made me realize how they value their cul-
ture and traditions, passed-on by their ancestors. Now was the moment for
them to show it to all the people. As they moved and sang with the beat of the
Kundu, pride and honor was written all over their faces.
Aside from the cultural show, the school held a Raffle Draw with tantalizing
prizes at stake. The raffle was raised to help the staff of the school to acquire
funds to buy computers to aid the teachers in their lesson preparations. The
school is indeed grateful for all the people who in one way or another extend
their helping hand.
As the sun set and everyone dispersed home, the famous Parable of the Sower
from the Gospel of Mark 4:3-8 dawned on me: “Hear this! A sower went out to
sow. And as he sowed, some seed fell on the path, and the birds came and
ate it up. Other seed fell on rocky ground where it had little soil. It sprang up
at once because the soil was not deep. And when the sun rose, it was
scorched and it withered for lack or roots. Some seed fell among thorns, and
it produced no grain. And some seed fell on rich soil and produced fruit. It
came up and grew and yielded thirty, sixty, and a hundredfold.” For the
thirty-one years of existence of Don Bosco here in Papua New Guinea, see-
ing the faces of my students and experiencing their culture through them, St.
John Bosco has planted a seed through every Bosconian which is and will
always be ALIVE and GROWING for future generation to emulate.
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Understanding The Digital Image
- Fr. Ambrose Pereira sdb
Participants ready for a visit to EM TV, Port Moresby
Photos above:
Charmaine Kombeo, Sheryll Extra-
Isoaimo and Ricardo Jovellanos from
DBTS at video editing, while Jessica
Whiting looks on and Terrance Aisi,
engaged in his camera lesson
Students enter the Digital Age
- Jessica Whiting
Creative photographs, operating a camera and an introduction to social media
were just some of the topics covered during the first day of the „Digital Age‟ me-
dia course being held at the Don Bosco Technical Institute (DBTI), in Boroko,
Port Moresby. 32 participants from the Salesians of Don Bosco (sdb) congre-
gation, Catholic Bishops Conference, DBTI and Don Bosco Technical School
Gabutu commenced their 4 day course at the Emmaus Retreat Centre, which
started on Thursday, September 29.
Salesian delegate to Papua New Guinea and the Solomon Islands, Fr. Raffy
Galve sdb, welcomed the participants to the course with the message that all
must be open to learning about digital media so to be able to use it in a positive
way in their daily lives.
In the afternoon, participants formed small groups, and took turns taking imagi-
native photographs interpreting one of two themes, peace and the number 50.
Participant Moise Polaku says he enjoyed the dynamism of the sessions pre-
sented, and learning how to be creative when taking photographs.
Later in the day, the participants watched the documentary War Photographer,
about American James Nachtwey; whom for more than 20 years
has ventured into conflict zones to capture images of destruction
and devastation.
The media course was organised by Fr. Ambrose Periera sdb,
who hails from the Solomon Islands, and has been involved in
media education for over a decade. He was joined by two Aus-
tralian animators, Carol Labbad and Jessica Whiting, who have
previous experience in conducting media workshops in the Solo-
mon Islands and who have an interest in communications.
Chains of Appreciation
Photos above:
- Carol Labbad
Ricardo Jovellanos, DBTS student - facinated as he The final day of the „Digital Stories‟ short media course at Don
peers into the camera; Participants trying out their
Bosco Technical Institute started with a ZAP!! In fact that was the
new media skills, Trevor Ururu - into the video camera. name of the icebreaker that had participants in hysterics as they warmed up
Below: Carol Labbad, animates the group.
for the intense day ahead.
Participants then went straight into filming their short movies that were
themed around a positive message or current issue affecting youth. The
filming followed a carefully mapped out script using the guidelines learnt
from a Script Writing presentation by Jessica Whiting the previous day.
When finished filming, participants edited and added final touches to their
movies using specialized computer programs where they cut, added music
and applied special effects. To wind down before the celebrations, partici-
pants were asked to take part in an “appreciation” activity. This consisted of
a sheet of paper that was put on their backs and went around writing posi-
tive messages about one another. The activity turned into a „human chain of
appreciation‟ as participants lined up and wrote on each other‟s backs.
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Some very complimentary and encouraging messages were
shared.
The formal celebrations and appreciation commenced at 3pm
and included special guests Fr. Raffy Galve sdb, Fr. Dominic
Kachira sdb, Fr. John Cabrido sdb and Sr. Alice Fulgencio fma.
Participants proudly showed off a summary of their efforts that
included creative still shots, image stories and of course short
movies. Course facilitators, Jessica Whiting and Carol Labbad
were truly amazed by the standard of work produced by the
participants. “…we are so proud of the creativity and efforts of
each student, the output was of an extremely high level, a par-
ticularly impressive output given the length of the program”
said Carol Labbad. Fr. Ambrose Pereira sdb summed up the
efforts of the participants nicely when he said”, “If you ask
youth for a little, they will give you nothing but if you ask them
a lot, they will give you everything.” The latter was indeed true
for all the participants of the short course. Although the pro-
gram was very fast paced and intense, participants managed
to keep up and exceed all the expectations of the facilitators
and possibly even themselves! Well done to all involved, it
certainly was a great learning experience and a highly memo-
rable event. The participants do their best to ensure that the
„Good News‟ and their positive stories is shared through the
media.
The Media Course has been the initiative of the Salesians of
Don Bosco. SIGNIS, the World Catholic Association for Catho-
lic Communications stresses Media Education and has been
very supportive of the Programme.
Powerful Tools in Teaching
- Josephine L. Sager, DBTI
Movie analysis adds spice to our day activities and it is
usually at 7.45pm in the evening. Early the next day it
becomes the springboard for comments and discussion
for the next session. It‟s quite good. It gives more time
for the participants to think and pick out ideas then ex-
press their own opinions and reactions.
This makes us, the viewers, become aware of the col-
ours, the dialogues and the reality of life. Mind you this
is not simply watching to fill our time, but we delve
deeper into incidents that lead to the plot development.
More than that, we learn lessons applicable when we
face similar situations in the future.
One homework that I enjoyed is
the two minute video. Before
came out with one, we brain-
stormed on dialogues and situa-
tions, where to shoot and I appre-
ciate also the members of my
group who suggested different
ideas. There is openness and
teamwork. At the outset, we
planned, argued and changed
until one idea was conceived.
Never did we know that the short
video we watched, the samples
shown to us before our task,
takes time to finish.
Just like arranging events in a storybook,
this paves the way for them to sequence
the shots and It‟s up for the viewer to link
one photo with another and get it across.
As the saying goes- A picture speaks a
thousand words.
Another one that caught my attention was
the modern texting that we do now. Even
before the media sessions, one thing that
worries me is the spelling. As a teacher, I
guess this will
not be good,
their words
will be erratic.
But we have to
go with the
times. This
will be a good
exercise for
kids to com-
municate and
pick out the
message im-
mediately.
This can also
servAenimasaJteaosrssi:cFarW. AhmitibnrgosaendPeFrre. iRraafsfdybG,aClvaerosldLbabbad,
mind-tickler. How fast a student answers depend
also on the information he has and connect it with texts and
photos.
I enjoy and learn from the sessions and with the influx of
modern gadgets children become more adept at their use
and more often than not, adults refer to them when things
won‟t work. Just with the cellular phone alone, they maxi-
mize the use of it.
While the short video picks have lesser dialogues and more
of actions, viewers easily work out what the message is.
Learners become creative, too on what to mix - location,
sound, facial expressions, focus to name a few. To add
up, video clips are a necessity for interpretation. Literature
states that there is no wrong interpretation as long as you
can support it.
Some are hesitant to talk, others are thinkers and the ma-
jority are doers, but this activity opened their minds to a
new horizon.
Thanks a lot to the organizers. I take my hat off to all of you.
DBTI Students
in Communications - Jessica Whiting
35 Don Bosco Technical School (DBTS) students spent their last
day of holidays in the „Digital Age‟ – learning about new technolo-
gies and how they are affecting communication.
A one-day media workshop covering the principals of news writ-
ing, creative photographs, plus reflec-
tion on the importance of sending posi-
tive messages in an era of increasingly
digital communication was held in the
DBTS conference room on Friday, 30th
September.
Course animator Jessica Whiting said
the students were able to write interest-
ing and creative news articles quickly.
“The students very capably embraced
the „5W and 1H‟ and „inverted pyramid‟
principals and produced news articles
of a high quality”, Jessica said.
During the workshop the students
also viewed a selection of short vid-
eos from the Plural+ 2010 Youth
Film Festival and reflected on the
messages contained within.
The workshop was initiated by
DBTS Rector Fr. Dominic Kachira
sdb, and organised and conducted
by Fr. Ambrose Pereira sdb, to-
gether Australian animators Jessica
Whiting and Carol Labbad who have
previous experience in coordinating
media seminars in the Solomon
Islands.
Above: Students prepare posters with a message
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Love the Church
MADRID, Spain, 21st AUGUST, 2011 (Zenit.org).-
You cannot live your faith alone, Benedict XVI
told the young people gathered at the Cuatro Vein-
tos Air Base in his homily during the closing Mass of
the 26th World Youth Day.
Benedict XVI greeted the 1.5 million young people -- according
to figures confirmed by the Spanish National Police -- who had
slept all night on the ground. His first remark was: "I thought a
lot about you; I hope you were able to get a little sleep."
The Pope stressed, "The world needs the witness of your faith, it
certainly needs God," exhorting the young people to be "disciples
and missionaries of Christ in other lands and countries where there
is a multitude of youth who aspire to great things and, glimpsing in
their hearts the possibility of the most authentic values, do not let
themselves be seduced be the false promises of a lifestyle without
God."
At the end of the celebration, Cardinal Stanisław Ryłko, president
of the Pontifical Council for the Laity, thanked the Pope on behalf
of the young people.
Accompanied by the Spanish royalty, the Pope made his way
to the altar to preside at the Eucharistic celebration in which the
sending of the young people out to evangelize their peers in the
world was also celebrated.
"Here before you, Your Holiness, there is a young Church, full of
the joy and enthusiasm of faith. They are young people who are
proud to belong to Christ and to his Church. It is truly a generation
that seeks God," he said.
The Pontiff, as he had also done in his address in the opening
ceremony of World Youth Day in Plaza de Cibeles, warned the
young pilgrims against the danger of individualism, one the of
the most significant threats that the new generations of Chris-
tians face.
"Following Jesus in faith is to walk with him in the communion
of the Church. You cannot follow Jesus alone," he explained.
The Pope then cautioned them against the temptation of "going
it alone" and "of living the faith according to the individualistic
mentality that predominates in society" because in this way
there is "the risk of never meeting Jesus Christ, or of ending up
following a false image of him." "Having faith means leaning on
the faith of your brothers, and that your own faith in the same
way serves as a support for that of the others," he added. In
light of this the Bishop of Rome called on the young people to
"love the Church," concretely inserting themselves in "parishes,
communities and movements," and "to participate in the Eucha-
rist every Sunday, to approach the sacrament of Reconciliation
frequently and to cultivate prayer and meditate on the Word of
God."
In particular he thanked the Pope for the creation
of the Youcat, the youth catechism that was in-
cluded in each pilgrim‟s backpack, and the World
Youth Day cross, which the Pontiff blessed at the
conclusion of the Mass and symbolically entrusted
to five young people.
TAVUR Correspondents
Looking forward to receiving your reflections,
articles, photos and news bits for our
Christmas Special
The last issue of TAVUR for 2011
Articles and matter for print can be sent to:
Fr. Ambrose Pereira sdb
Mayette Carvajal or Fr. Edwin Genovia sdb
By 1st December, 2011.
Photos are to be sent in High Resolution (300Kb to 450Kb).
8
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Fr. Robinson Parappilly
FAITH A personal experience of
From Papua New Guinea we were 54 of us who joined the whole
world in the massive gathering of 2 million young people in the per-
sonal encounter with Christ and in the celebration of youthful joyful
life. Many times I have heard from priests and religious that
Europe is deteriorating in Christian faith. But in the words of Bene-
dict XVI: “I wish that all the young people, both those who share our
faith and those who hesitate, falter in belief or don‟t believe at all,
could live this experience, which may be a turning point in their
lives: the experience of Our Lord Jesus Christ, who resurrected and
is alive, and of his love for each and every one of us.” I strongly
believe and that is what I witnessed in Madrid. There were young
people all over Madrid from all walks of life both believers and non
believers singing, dancing and proclaiming their faith in Christ with
joyful hearts. This is the renewal of the church and for the young
people to build their roots of Christian faith in friendship and fellow-
ship with Christ, Church and Vicar of the Church the Pope. The
WYD programs began with the days in the Diocese where we had
integral experiences of faith, prayer, sight seeing, festive moments
and to cherish the culture of Spanish people who were very hospi-
table and may be the best experience in the life of every Papua
New Guinean.
The inter cultural family faith experience was exchanged with the
parishioners of St. Joseph the Worker in the Diocese of Cuenca,
approximately 300 miles from Madrid. Even though language was
a barrier in communication, since people in Spain speak only Span-
ish, many of our people made new friends with the language of the
heart which is more binding with Christian joy. We could notice the
vitality of Christian faith deep rooted in the families since Spain is
one of the greatest Catholic Countries. The country of Spain also is
called Land of Mary. After the WYD I could visit Zaragoza one of
the most popular shrines of Our Lady of Pillar. We also had oppor-
tunity to pilgrimage ourselves to the famous Cathedral of Madrid
which is dedicated to the Our Lady of Almudena. We could experi-
ence the deep rooted Marian devotion which was flowing in the
endless prayers and rosaries recited by the young and old all
throughout the day. The Marian devotion has profoundly manifested
in the sculpture, paintings and literatures in many places. The lives
and history of Saints who were patrons for the WYD were very
inspirational in our journey of faith. Lives and writings of Saints like
St. Francis Xavier, Ignatius of Loyola, Juan of Avila, Teresa of
Avila, John of the Cross, Rose of Lima, Rafael Arnaiz, and Blessed
John Paul II brought us more closer to God and once again re-
minded us of the words of Benedict XVI “The Church needs saints.
All of us are called to holiness, and only saints can renew mankind.”
On 16th August when the whole Salesian congregation was cele-
brating the birthday of Don Bosco, we young people gathered at
Plaza de Cibeles for the opening mass with the Cardinal of Madrid.
For the Papua New Guineas it was the first time to see a massive
crowd who were singing and praising God in the atmosphere of
prayer and devotion. I could noticed the real wonder and surprise
on the faces of all. We held the PNG flag high and many young
people rushed to us have a photograph. The whole evening we
spend posing for photos with other youth from different countries.
Of course we made
impression in the
crowd by singing na-
tional anthems and
Christian pidgin
songs.
On 17th August we
went to Don Bosco
School Atache to join
the gathering of the
Salesian
Youth
Movement.
We were
privileged
to meet
Rector Ma-
jor and
Mother
General.
15000 Bosconians from all over the world gathered together
to express the Salesian Joy and cheerfulness. There were
cultural exchange and entertainment by Bosconians from
different countries. We were taken up by the Salesian joy and
proud to be part of this great family get together. Three days
of Catechesis led by different bishops from Canada and
America were part of the faith formation of WYD. Topics like
Gifts of the Holy Spirit, Salvation in Christ, The Son made
flesh etc. were dialoged in the mornings of every day. On 18th
August was a memorable day for us when we had Mr. Tony
Melendes (with out hands) spoke to us about the issues of
Christian faith, marriage, abortion, premarital sex. He sur-
prised us by playing guitar with his legs and praising God for
the gift of life. Though he is handicapped he is not discour-
aged and disappointed. He used his gift of life for the glory of
God and inspiration of young people.
The young people gathered at plaza de Cebeles for events
like Opening Mass, Welcoming Pope, Way of the Cross.
Since the roads were not accommodating enough we had to
spend the evenings in frond of massive screens. The Bene-
dicto Claps were echoing in the air every now and then which
was very amusing for every Papua New Guinean as we
joined the young people in welcoming the Pope. On 20th
August we were already prepared ourselves to go to Cuatro
Vientos Madrid Airfield for the night vigil and Sunday closing
Mass. After two hours walk together with echoing melodies of
songs and praises in the burning heat we reached the Airfield.
Since the sun was too hot the fire engines were spraying cool
showers to keep ourselves from sun burn. The whole Airfield
was full of people and we were packed like fish in a box. The
young people welcomed the Pope, and as we began the vigil
service there was huge storm and rain. We could see the
breaking of thunder and lightening and the rain drops began
to fall down. The young people danced with joy singing
praises and clapping their hands and praying loud. Almost for
15 minutes the Pope has to remain in the shower drenched
together with the young people.
The act of self sacrificing attitude and courage of the Pope
thrilled the youth to echo more „Benedicto claps‟. Since the
weather was not that conducive for vigil, the benediction ser-
vice was very short. The young people spend the whole night
in the atmosphere of prayer. On Sunday I had the privilege of
concelebrating with the Pope. Thousands of Cardinals, Bish-
ops and Priests joined the Pope for the concluding thanks
giving mass. The Pope encouraged the young people to con-
tinue their faith experiences and living witnesses of Christ in
the world. The Pope thanked the young people by saying:
“Thank you young people, you rejuvenate the Pope, inspire
the Church & refresh a world thirsty for hope & courage. The
Pope thanks you for your affection and sends you out as am-
bassadors of the joy that our World needs.” I wish and pray
that many young salesians get an opportunity in the future to
be part of this WYD event.
Photo left: Among friends - Fr. Robinson Parappilly and Mayette Carvajal
at the WYD 2011, Madrid, Spain.
TAVUR The newsletter of the Salesian delegation of Papua New Guinea and the Solomon Islands
9

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Lawrence Waddy’s
Prodgal SON
I will rise an
He went into a far country
The Prodigal Son follows the scripture passage: Lk:
15: 11-31. It opens with a family household scene and
the demand of the younger son. A life of loose living
follows as the young man enticed by passing joy
strives to fulfill himself. He then realizes his folly and
says, „I will rise and go to my Father‟. The father and
mother eagerly wait for his return. It is joy and celebra-
tion as the young man returns back home. The elder
son is not too happy with all the fuss made over one
who has squandered his father‟s wealth on harlots and
thieves. The father and mother lovingly remind him that
they rejoice because their son and his brother has re-
turned. „He was lost and is found again, he was dead
and is alive again.‟
The main characters suited their roles and played their
parts well. Anguish was clearly portrayed by Rose Timi,
playing the part of the mother as she sang – „What ever
happened to love’. Choreographed excellently were the
dances on stage, backed by the choir led by Sr. Sialei
Puapuaga fma. Steven Maetora, the Prodigal son, put
in a lot of feeling and emotion as he sang ‘Who am I?
while the boys mimed and danced to the beat. The
temptresses played their part enticing the prodigal to a
life of vice and loose living. Lively singing by Delialah
Goutala, barmaid, Luciano Kii and John Mark are also
to be commended. Douglas Porokura played well the
Photos:
At the tavern - Shackles - Welcome back home - Reconciliation -
part of the barman. The villain Luke Houpere
leading all the evil made sure that the prodigal suc-
cumbed. He then strode into the audience and
drew fears and scares. ‘I will rise and go to my
Father’ sung by a repentant Prodigal, brought
tears to the eyes of many in the audience. The
loving embrace of Father played by Adrian Su-
damai, welcoming the Prodigal son brought hom
the ideals of repentance and forgiveness. He then
sang a powerfully „There was a good shepherd’.
Stanely Ulufa’alu portraying the hardworking, an-
gry and jealous elder son, expressed his confusion
and disappointment at the celebration of the feast
as he stated clearly ‘Why all this fuss’. All the
actors played their parts. There were some fine
moments of audience response as Moses Paipai
played his part.
As the Academic Year commenced the idea of a
musical was tossed around. Encouragement and
support from a number of persons flowed in. Law-
rence Waddy‟s „The Prodigal Son‟ was then cho-
sen and the audition began. It was then weeks
and months of practices - singing, dancing and
long hours of painstaking rehearsals. As the play
unfolded the right characters to fit the roles were
finalized. The final production was an excellent
entertainment with a powerful message of love,
forgiveness and reconciliation something most
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nd go to my Father!
- Fr. Ambrose Pereira sdb
Who am I?
Temptresses ...
Welcome embrace !!!
needed in the Solomon Islands today.
The musical was directed by Theresa Murphy, Ma-
hitahi Volunteer from Auckland. With patience and
firmness she brought out the very best in each of
the characters. “It has been a wonderful experi-
ence to watch the actors grow so much over the
past few weeks. It‟s an experience I will treasure”,
she said. Earlier, Chris Procter, ABV Volunteer
led the characters through the finer points of stage-
craft. Stage Managers, Hilda Anihoniara and
Tegan Sleap, together with Crew persons Paulus
Buna and Davis Mabolou ensured that the stage
was set for the next scene. Costumes were han-
dled creatively by Camari Bainivalu, Phillipa Ri‟i-
man together with the Life skills department. The
characters were delighted to be made up for the
play. Mary Porowai and her team, together with
Hams Theater persons were happy to do the same.
the sacrifice, dedication and commitment of the cast and
the crew. It has been a learning experience for all and I
do hope that all that has been learnt will be shared in the
different churches and communities”, said Fr. Ambrose
Pereira sdb, who has been coordinating the entire pro-
duction.
Photos: Right:
- 2 Trade boys
Below:
- Choir
The sets were designed and painted by Fr. Pankaj
Xalxo sdb, Fr. Srimal Priyanga sdb, Adrian Su-
damai and the Carpentry students. Ronualdo Mon-
dez handled the audio track and projected the
words of the songs. The lights were handled well
by Nelson Soke, John Ramo and Patrick Ramo to-
gether with the Electrical Students. “The entire pro-
duction was a learning experience for all the depart-
ments”, said a very contented principal, Casmari
Bainivalu. “The production has been the result of
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Alter Christus
- Fr. Albert Lenon sdb, Rector
4th of August has been marked in the Church
Liturgical Calendar as the DAY OF THE
PRIESTS, in remembrance of St. John Vianney
the Patron of all Priests.
This day too marked a very special and memora-
ble day for the Diocese of Kundiawa, Simbu
Province. Three young men vowed themselves
to be “ALTER CHRISTUS”. They are Fr. Christo-
pher Onguglo from Mingende, Fr. Joseph Tinake
from Bogo-Kawa and Fr. Otto Kupo from Nare-
gaima.
The celebration began with the three candidates
in their traditional dress culture while their family members
presented them to the church. The Bishop of Kundiawa
Diocese Bishop Anton Bal received the candidates for
the Sacrament of Holy Orders. The whole place was filled
with people family members, relatives and friends wish-
ing and praying for them. The presence of the priests, reli-
gious and the seminarians was an expression of joy and
oneness with the three newly ordained priests. The me-
lodic singing and voicing of the choir brought angelic ech-
oes to the beautiful panoramic mountain views of the high-
lands.
In his homily, Bishop Anton Bal reminded the newly or-
dained priests that catholic priests must become a beckon
of light to show the people the right path to God . They
should become true leaders in the church without seeking
Bishop Anton Bal, Bishop of Kundiawa ordaining the candidates
wealth or glory. He stressed that village leadership was
completely different from becoming a priest in the church.
Bishop Bal urged the priests to become servants of the
people and not to abuse their positions.
On this occasion, the Emeritus of Kundiawa Bishop Henk
te Maarssen concelebrated. He too played an important
role in the formation and spiritual growth of the three newly
ordained priests. For us Salesian as well, we are happy in
this occasion because the present Rector of Don Bosco
Kumgi Fr. Albert Lenon had a great role in the vocation
of Fr. Joseph Tinake when he was still a seminarian.
Fr. Christopher, Fr. Joseph and Fr. Otto we are always
praying for you. May the Sacred Heart of Jesus be your
inspiration as you journey in the footsteps of the Lord.
OCTOBER
19. Bp. CAPELLI, Luciano
20. Fr. GALVE, Raphael
25. Cl. MARAMUN, Isidore
NOVEMBER
3. Fr. GENOVIA, Edwin
5. Fr. THANH, Joseph
20. Fr. PARAPILLY, Robinson
21. Cl. MASWILI, Stephen
23. Bp. PANFILO, Francesco
27. Cl. SINGAN, Michael
DECEMBER
4. Cl. PALUKU, MOISE
6. Fr. FAJARDO, Fernando
7. Fr. PEREIRA, Ambrose
Fr. REVILLA, Eduardo
13. Fr. HARUYAMA, Mikaeraruppu
Fr. ODORICO, Luciano
Christmas Special
Please send in your articles, reflec-
tions, photos and comments by:
1st December, 2011
You can send articles and photos to:
Fr. Ambrose Pereira, sdb -
ambrose@donbosco.org.sb
Mayette Carvajal -
mayettebcarvajal@hotmail.com
Fr. Edwin Genovia
edge_png@yahoo.com
Last day for submissions: 1st December, 2011
TAVUR Edition October, 2011
Contributing authors:
Fr. Raffy Galve, Br. Moise Paluku sdb, Fr. Julian Fox, Fr. John
Cabrido, Fr. Roger Miranda, Fr. Albert Lennon, Fr. Edwin Genovia
sdb, Fr. Albert Lenon sdb, Fr. Ambrose Pereira.
Layout, proofreading and editing:
Fr. Ambrose Pereira sdb
Fr. Srimal Priyanga sdb, DB Communications
Fr. Rafael Galve: delpng_si@datec.net.pg / galve@dbti.ac.pg
Fr. Edwin Genovia:
edge_png@yahoo.com
Fr. Valeriano Barbero:
valerianob@gmail.com
Fr. Dominic Kachira:
dominickachira@gmail.com
Fr. Edward Revilla:
sdbed@gmail.com
Fr. John Cabrido:
keoni728vb@yahoo.com
Fr. Albert Lenon:
albertlenonsdb@yahoo.com
Fr. Ambrose Pereira:
ambrose@donbosco.org.sb
Br. Moise Palaku:
palman02@yahoo.fr
Br. Jess Gracia:
jgarcia@dbti.ac.pg
12
TAVUR - The newsletter of the Salesian delegation of Papua New Guinea and the Solomon Islands