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Tavur 2011 June

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Tavur 2011 June

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The newsletter of the Salesian delegation of Papua New Guinea and the Solomon Islands

June, 2011

Dear friends,

Viva Jesu! Jesus is raised from the

dead. We are nearly at the end of

the Easter celebration. It has been

a very good experience for me to

participate and be part of this won-

derful celebration in our communi-

ties.

The joy of Easter increased when I witnessed the priestly

Ordination in Manila of our two Salesians: Fr. Angel San-

chez and Fr. Joseph Phouc Tinh Tran, and a Deaconal or-

dination of Rev. Stephen Yu Ji Hun. The event took place

on the feast St. Dominic Savio. Without forgetting also the

ordination of another Indian confrere in India. Fr. Dominic

Kachira, the Rector of Gabutu and Fr. Albert Lenon, the

Rector of Kumgi represented our Delegation at the event.

It was an occasion of grace for Fr. Shoji Matthew together

with his family. He also has a brother who is a Priest.

Being the month of May we also have the feast of St. Mary

Dominica Mazarrello, who co-founded with Don Bosco, the

Daughters of Mary Help of Christians. We are also blessed

to have two new FMA missionaries that will be working in

Boroko. One is already around and the other one will soon

arrive.

The month of May concluded with a

greater festivity of the feast of Mary

Help of Christians, principal patron of

our Salesian family. The Nuncio,

Mons. Francisco Padilla graced the

occasion after which we had a simple

dinner with the members of the Sale-

sian family. It is also in the first week

of May that the canonization of our

dear Pope John Paul II occurred. He

championed the life of a faithful Shepherd, leading the

Universal church in the years of his pontificate.

As we dedicate the month of June to the festivity of the

Pentecost, we are praying that all of us may receive the

gifts and the power of the Holy Spirit. The gifts were

given to the first Church and the disciples. It is the same

Spirit that transforms and renews the face of the earth.

So be it with each and every one of us, may it bring about

renewal and conversion of heart and mind.

Let us continue praying and supporting the invitation of

the Rector Major to bring our young people, and mem-

bers of the Salesian Family to Jesus, the Lamb of God.

Continue inviting them in the words of our Lord Himself,

“COME AND SEE”.

God bless you all.

- Fr. Raffy Galve sdb, Delegate PNG-SI

Social Networking in our Digital Age

“Truth, proclamation and authenticity of life in the digital age” – is

the 45th World Day of Social Communications to be celebrated on 5th

June, 2011. The Pope invites young people to be present in the digital

world with the values of the Gospel.

"The Holy Father speaks about the technological and cultural

transformation taking place which is creating “new way of learning and

thinking, with unprecedented opportunities for establishing

relationships and building fellowship.”

The Pope makes special reference to social networks, saying: “To proclaim the Gospel

through the new media means not only to insert expressly religious content into different

media platforms, but also to witness consistently, in one‟s own digital profile and in the way one communicates choices,

preferences and judgements that are fully consistent with the Gospel, even when it is not spoken of specifically.”

45th World Day of Social Communications - celebrated on 5th June, 2011

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The more you GIVE,

The more you will RECEIVE

- Pedro SACHITULA sdb

reflects and shares his personal vocation story

I made my

First Religious

Profession, in

Luanda, on

the Feast of

Don Bosco –

31st January

2004. After 3

years of stud-

ies in Philoso-

phy and Sci-

ence of Edu-

cation, in 2006 I was sent to Papua New Guinea as a Missionary

where I did my Practical Training.

My desire to become a missionary „ad gentes‟ had matured

during the years of my Post-novitiate, when I put myself under

the guidance of a Spiritual Director whose long, sound experi-

ence and wisdom have helped me find out the true motivations

behind my desire.

Some questions have always invaded my mind: „Why should I

be a missionary „ad gentes‟ when there is so much to do in

Angola? Besides, the Salesians in Angola are so few in pro-

portion to the demands that await them. Is it not too early to

send missionaries when the salesians have been in Angola for

just 30 years? I believe it is fair enough to pose these ques-

tions from the human point of view, but the reality/nature of the

mission of the Church and of our Congregation at times is not

based on numbers or human calculations and effectiveness,

albeit important as they are. In God‟s logic, generosity, gener-

ates generosity; “the more you give, the more you receive”.

I spent 3 years unforgettable years in Papua New Guinea:

2007-2010. My experience has been arduous, challenging,

purifying, enriching and above all rewarding. My stay in PNG

made me encounter a new, very rich and diverse culture, in

fact “1000 cultures”! This was beautiful to me and

most of all transforming. At the beginning it was a real

challenge in the sense that, I had to learn to see the

world, not just from my Angolan/African perspectives

but, with a Melanesian one. This laborious process

became smother and smother thanks to the help of the

Salesians I had found, the communities that welcomed

and formed me.

I enjoyed very much my practical training experience.

Being among the boys, and with young people -

granted me the grace of living with enthusiasm- my

Salesian vocation as

an educator. As an

assistant in the school

or boarding house, I

did not have much to

offer. All I knew is that

those young people I

met had so much po-

tential for goodness,

had a real thirst for

knowledge and truth

and that, quite often,

sadly they cheap and

base solutions that

society offers. All I

had to share with the

young was my experi-

ence of being loved

gratuitously by the

Risen Lord; to bring

them to realize that

Jesus is the only one

who gives answer to our search for happiness, the rea-

son of our hoping for a confident future. Only when this

is achieved can we live the present to the full and with

sound joy. Young people and those who come to our

Salesian settings, know this. They want it to a great

degree. Only this means sacrifice, determination and

self- discipline – realities that contemporary man tends

to get rid of.

A life of prayer and openness to the grace of the Sac-

raments are indispensable if we are to be what we are

meant to be and give meaning to our freedom.

I wish we young people put Jesus Christ first and dis-

cover His great love for us. And may they share His

love for others. This is the first and true vocation.

Photos:

Left: With a group of boys in PNG

Top Above: Presenting the Strenna

Top Right: In choir; Receiving Ministry

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SUB TUUM

PRAESIDIUM

On May 6, 2011, Feast of Saint Dominic Savio, I (a Filipino),

Fr. Joseph Tinh (a Vietnamese) and Rev. Stefano Yu (a Ko-

rean) were ordained at the National Shrine of Mary Help of

Christians. We chose as our motto "SUB TUUM PRAE-

SIDIUM" (Under Thy Protection) taken from the oldest Chris-

tian prayer to the Blessed Virgin Mary. We entrust our life and

ministry to Mama Mary. The three of us are bound for the mis-

sions in PNG-SI.

Ten days have passed since I was ordained a priest. Each

time I preside over the Eucharist, my hands tremble espe-

cially when we reach the Eucharistic Prayer, Consecration

and Elevation. My hands tremble not only because I am nerv-

ous, but more so because for me it is the most humbling ex-

perience. Unworthy as I am, the Lord called me and chose

me. In spite of who and what I am, the Lord makes use of me

to transform the bread and wine into His Body and Blood for

the salvation of the world. What a grace! Indeed, this treasure

we possess in "earthen vessels"! I feel very small especially

when even elderly priests who I knew were far advanced than

I in their life of holiness come to kiss my hands and ask for my

Under thy protection

- Fr. Savio Angelo S. Sanchez, SDB

blessing. The bishop who ordained me to the priesthood,

Most Rev. Roberto Mallari, DD, kissed my hands after the

ordination. An elderly bishop from another diocese, Most

Rev. Juan De Dios Pueblos, DD, upon learning that I am a

newly-ordained priest, in a Mass where I concelebrated,

kissed my hands too! Oh, the sacred hands of the priest! The

words of Mama Margaret are a constant reminder for me of

one aspect of priesthood which I have now began to experi-

ence in a more real and personal way: "To begin to say

Mass is to begin to suffer." I cannot be "detached" from the

Holy Sacrifice I offer. In the words of Bishop Fulton Sheen,

one becomes a "priest-victim" for "a priest is not His own."

As we rejoice in this great gift God has freely and gratui-

tously bestowed upon us, let us also continue praying for

more holy and zealous servants in the vineyard of the Lord.

God bless you bountifully!

Priests at the Ordination

In your SERVICE

Fr. Shoji Mathew was ordained on 7th

May, 2011 in a very solemn ceremony.

Fr. Albert Lenon sdb, Rector - Kumgi and

Fr. Dominic Kachira were present. The

vice Provincial of Bangalore province

along with over 20 Salesians from the

communities of Kerala and even from

Bangalore made the SDB presence con-

spicuous.

After the 90 minute long Ordination cere-

mony, Shoji celebrated his first Holy Mass

which also lasted 90 minutes. A sumptu-

ous midday meal in the Parish Hall was

preceded by a short and sweet reception

inside the Church itself.

TAVUR — The newsletter of the Salesian delegation of Papua New Guinea and the Solomon Islands

- Fr. Dominic Kachira sdb

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Cl. MOISE PALUKU

My Missionary life

is a journey of

HOPE

I am convinced that becoming a missionary is a route in

which dreams and realities meet. The fact that I am now

a missionary is a dream rooted in the past and it is ex-

plained by various reasons. First, the desire to be a mis-

sionary, for me, is like a burning bush whose source is

the family. Being the eldest son of my parents, my child-

hood was spent far from them. Their absence of over 6

years has made it easier for them to give me permission

when I decided to join a missionary congregation. Sec-

ondly, my belonging to the Parish of St Alloys run by Pa-

lottine fathers who consider missionary activity as one of

their priorities. My desire was strengthened during my

contact with the salesians who are actively working in my

hometown of Nord Kivu/Goma.

Similarly, I deepened and purified my motivations during

the different stages of my formation. During my Novitiate,

I was convinced that my Sequela Christi will be effective

only if I serve the youth away from my homeland. Every

dream, enlightened by right motivations becomes reality.

destined to serve the young among the peoples

of Papua New Guinea and Solomon Islands.

Certainly, my current stay in Solomon Islands is the result

of a distant hope. Although during the course for New Mis-

sionaries in Rome the community where I will be sent was

unknown to me, I had already a very strong desire to be

there. On the eve of my departure for this land after the

short time of English language course, I used to repeat to

myself Don Rua‟s words,”at Mirabello I shall be Don

Bosco”.

My first experience in this journey of hope to the Solomon

Islands was that everything was new to me: time, food, cli-

mate, language, and environment. I do remember that the

heat chocked me, and then I could not understand how I

could easily teach in a school with a British Education Sys-

tem which is so different from the French Education System

I was used to. On the other hand, being the only young

confrere and practical trainee with two priests from other

cultures and among students who gave the impression to

be inactive, “lifeless”, I have often immersed myself in soli-

tude.

In fact my dream became flesh when I learnt that I was

But I was really surprised when I discovered that my young

people have the ability to create things. Everything related

to art is perfectly applicable in this culture. It was the be-

ginning of my joy and my being rooted in this new culture.

As a young missionary, I have engraved in my mind that

living in an international community is a support especially

when all have the common goal of following Christ in the

footsteps of Don Bosco by serving young people. More-

over, the fact of sharing the gift of one‟s own life, one‟s

missionary vocation and one‟s own time help in learning ti

accept and appreciate the local culture. I admit openly

that patience, inner joy in every sense outweighs the dan-

ger of sickness.

Br Moise Paluku sdb with sisters in the parish of Tetere.

After my participation in the Orientation Course for expa-

triates missionaries of all denominations organized by the

Melanesian Institute, I am confident that my attitude to-

wards the mysteries of the culture of the Solomon Islands

will change. I am truly grateful for the tools they offered

me to help me purify my way relating with the culture of

the Solomon Islands where I live every day the mission as

a path to hope.

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TETERE News Bits

Cl. Moise Paluku sdb

Enactment of the Way of the Cross

22nd April: Parishioners form the 17 communities gath-

ered at Christ the King Parish. The recollection was

preached by Fr. Japhet Manebusa, while Parish Priest

Fr. Michael Laap sdb, Fr. Joseph Than and Fr. Pankaj

Xalxo celebrated the Sacrament of Confession. At 1pm

the parishioners commenced a creative and emotional

Way of the Cross. At 8pm there was the celebration of

„Good Friday Service‟.

21st May: The 2nd year students have had their last

school recollection, in Tanagai Marists‟ convent, ani-

mated by Fr. Joseph Thanh.

Fr. Michael Laap sdb, Rec-

tor presents the Rector’s

Cup trophy

Ground breaking ceremony

for the boy’s dormitory

24the May: The school honored Mary as the Help of

Christians. Flowers decorated the whole court before

the mass started at 4:30 PM in Parish. Yet the Eucha-

ristic celebration has started, the youngsters savored

the joy of a Salesian feast day which arises from Field

ground, Chapel and Dining hall. A beautiful Eucharistic

celebration the school has offered to our Mother Mary.

27th May: The Rector’s Cup was complete and the

flame extinguished by Fr. Michael Lap. Trophies were

awarded to the champions. Later the Ground Break-

ing Ceremony was held. Mr Benny Bacani and the

Don Bosco Mission, Bonn was thanked for their gener-

osity.

Sr Anna Maria fma

presents certificates

to Basic Computer

Learners

31st May: Certificates were awarded to Literacy Partici-

pants and Basic Computer learners. Sr. Anne Maria

fma, was thanked for her teaching them the Basics of

Computers. Mr. Lawry Joana, practical carpentry

teacher from Vanga College was thanked and the 2nd

year students were sent off on their six months practical

term.

- Mr. Remegio Harold A. Argante, Vunabosco

Thespians enact the Way of the Cross

For the first time ever, a

Way of the Cross via musi-

cale was shown at the

school gymnasium of

Vunabosco Agro- Technical

Secondary School, Kokopo, East New Britain Province,

PNG, on the 14th of April.

The emotional journey of Jesus was given justice by se-

lected Bosconians and staff who bring the Gospel alive in

an incredible way. Dramatically and musically powerful, the

presentation provides a great insight into the most influen-

tial person in world history through stirring images in com-

pelling and unique way.

Wonderfully narrated by Ignatius Ogobi, Red

House Captain, and with the sterling performances of Jor-

dan Latumahina, Red House Vice-Captain, and an ensem-

ble of Bosconian thespians, it was truly an inspirational

event especially shown to the Bosconians in observance

of the Lenten Season.

The musical Way of the Cross meticulously re-

creates the Biblical Era, from Maundy-Thursday to Jesus‟

Crucifixion and Resurrection.

With its richly-textured costume designs courtesy

of Ms. Annabelle Ortega, and its haunting musical accom-

paniment of different band instruments, the student body

and the entire staff were one in saying that the show was

indeed a faithful re-enactment that became truly senti-

mental and a beautiful experience to watch.

The Way of the Cross was directed by Fr. Clifford

Morais, SDB, Principal, and with the able support of the

Student Representative Council (SRC) officers.

“CONGRATULATIONS!!!”

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EAO Extracts from „mailnews‟ sent out by Fr. Julian Fox sdb

Communications Delegates move forward

ALABANG, MANILA: The EAO Delegates spent won-

derful days from 26th to 29th April, 2011, under the able

direction of Fr. Filberto González sdb, Councillor for So-

cial Communications and Fr. Julian Fox sdb, convinced

that the interaction will bring much benefit to the Region,

given that each participant has already gained individu-

ally.

A highlight of the four days together was the study of the

renewed SSCS or Salesian Social Communication Sys-

tem, a solid two year effort, involving broad participation

from the entire Salesian world. The first task of the Dele-

gates is to report back to their 'constituencies' and in par-

ticular to their Provincials, Delegates and their Councils,

their own Communications Team, and also to the Forma-

tion Delegate and his team. The SC Delegates resolved

to take up an ongoing dialogue with formation both in

their own provinces, but also to seek opportunity, if it

arises, to do so at the wider regional level. The Delegates

have set up an online group for exchange and to develop

ideas. They intend sharing materials on a regular basis.

Note was made of the extensive number of Salesian web-

sites to be found in the Region, and that these are, under-

standably, in the local language where that is not English.

Delegates will encourage webmasters to include just titles in

English, in addition to the local language, to enable the pos-

sibility of people identifying useful material which they could

subsequently ask for for. The group shared communications

protocols - everything from who should communicate with

whom about what and how, given the rapid development of

media, be they personal, social or by any other description;

normal communication and crisis communication.

Thanks to Fr Eli Cruz, Provincial and Fr Noel Osial, the FIN

SC Delegate and his extended media team that have mde

the meeting a grand success.

New life from the Rock

'TULOY', ALABANG (Phil): 26 April 2011 -- "We

grow things on rock here" said Fr Rocky Evangelista

with a certain pride, and he proceeds to demonstrate

how! Tuloy, the outstanding Salesian work for the

truly poor amongst Manila's youngsters, has little

difficulty seeing a daily resurrection story at work

amongst these youngsters; but if you look hard around the

rocks and refuse, the hard ground and the rocky hill to one

side, you see another miracle at work - one which is very de-

liberately meant to coincide with the miracle of grace as well

and enhance the educational and Christian message in this

jewel of the Preventive System.

Hydroponics and ecological systems, are put into action. An

unserviceable 'dump‟ around Tuloy has now turned over to

growing anything you can imagine, feeding not just the bodies

but the very souls of the youngsters. Lettuce, tomatoes and

herbs on rocks, or charcoal, fed with water containing nutri-

ents starting with the cycle of chicken manure. And nothing is

burned or tossed away anymore at Tuloy. Cardboard boxes,

paper, anything biodegradable is worked over by the worms

and produces a unique organic and completely odourless fer-

tilizer fed back into ponds with fish - which have their work to

do as well - and in turn fed to the plants, and the plants feed

the people, and on it goes.

Kids who began growing

up in the midst of refuse,

knew only rock in the hardest

physical and human senses

of the word and the meta-

phor, learn something quite

different, about transforma-

tion. And the key has been

Raffy Avila, aged 18 is from Caloocan,

Manila. He has been at TULOY for 6

years and looks forward to being a fa-

mous chef and football player.

JOAN LARENGO, aged 22 is from Mun-

tin Lupa, Manila. A non-resident student

since 2006, she is now serving at TU-

not to leave it at that, not

LOY Don Bosco as General Clerk.nd

even at the 'miracle' of nature Anna, one of the many youngsters who

at work. In the midst of all

look forward to a happy life

this rock and water stands

the church, built of broken bricks, each brought, one by one, from

abandoned buildings and now offering a sacred place where the

real miracle of transformation is celebrated each morning. Grace

completes nature.

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CoGmosmpeluCnonicteantt iinons

New Caledonia: 3 May 2011 -- “The task of com-

municating the „Good News‟ is an important ministry

of the Church. And, while you use the modern

means of technology, ensure that the message is

filled with Gospel content.” said Apostolic Nuncio

Archbishop Daniel Balvo, as he addressed the

members of SIGNIS Pacific, on 3rd May, 2011

at Maison d‟Accueil, Mont Mou, New Caledo-

nia.

22 members attended the SIGNIS Pacific

meeting and workshop which commenced on

2 May, 2011. Several International SIGNIS

Board members were present for the meeting -

a sign that the Pacific forms an important region in the

church. Their insights and experience of communications

and their special areas of interest were shared at the various

presentations.

SIGNIS International president, Augustine Loorthusamy,

who hails from Malaysia, in a very lively and animated ses-

sion highlighted the need for members to ensure that they

witness to Gospel values in their lives. “As „digital immi-

grants‟ we need to ensure that the „digital natives‟ use the

digital media for the good of all”, he reminded the gathering.

Cuban national, Gustavo Andùjar, and International vice-

president, shared his keen interest in using Video Journalists

to convey powerful messages through the media. “There is

great potential for our young to express themselves through

images”, he said.

- Fr. Ambrose Pereira sdb

Inspiring presenta-

tions, personal reflec-

tions and lively discussions were part of every session. The

assembly formulated a Declaration calling for the church, gov-

ernments and other authorities to foster the growth of commu-

nications infrastructure that will assist with the development of

the region. “Increased capacity, particularly for remote and

outer islands and isolated villages are vital if people are to

share in the benefits these technologies bring to human de-

velopment”, it stated.

Freelance video producer, SIGNIS Vice-president and

SIGNIS Pacific Treasurer and Secretary for the past 20 years,

Peter Thomas was thanked for his dedication and commit-

ment to this vital task in the Pacific. “We will miss you im-

mensely”, said Fr. Ambrose Pereira sdb, President, as he

thanked Peter Thomas for his many years of joyful ser-

vice. Agatha Ferei, has been elected to fulfill the role.

SIGNIS Pacific calls for Broadband Expansion

Members of SIGNIS Pacific (World

Catholic Association for Communica-

tions) call upon the leaders of the Church in the Pacific to

encourage governments and other authorities to foster

growth of communications infrastructure that will assist

with the development of our region. Specifically that our

Bishops see the value of new communications services,

e.g. high-speed broadband and wireless applications as

„tools‟ of ministry to assist our people in the areas of

health, education, social welfare and a myriad of pastoral

outreach applications, e.g. relationship counseling, reli-

gious education etc. Increased capacity, particularly for

remote outer islands and isolated villages, is vital if our

people are to share in the considerable benefits these

technologies bring to human development.

We are painfully aware that there remain vast areas in our region

that have meagre electricity supply and in some cases none at all.

We acknowledge that internet services whilst developed in urban

areas remain under-developed or even non existent in rural areas

and outer islands. Not withstanding advances in technologies and

their availability to some parts of our nations and the fact that we

are linked to the rest-of-the-world through this communications

eco-system, we remain overwhelmed with major social problems,

e.g. governance, poverty, education, health, trade, culture, etc.

Communications can and does play a vital role in overcoming the

obstacles that prevent us from moving forward.

We call upon the leaders of the Pacific Church

 to keep the challenge on governments and other agencies to

live up to their plans and promises.

 to demand that the implementation of these plans and policies

be done in a way that will be beneficial to all sectors of society.

 to demand that there be real civil society participation in the

processes by which broadband infrastructure develops.

 for the Church to commit to use such technologies in an exem-

plary way.

This Declaration was drawn up at the SIGNIS Pacific Assembly,

Noumea, New Caledonia on 2 - 5 May, 2011 by delegates from

Australia, Fiji Islands, Federated States

of Micronesia, French Polynesia,

Guam, Kiribati, Northern Marianas,

Palau, Papua

New Guinea,

Solomon Is-

lands, Tahiti,

Tonga, Vanuatu

and Wallis &

Futuna.

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- Fr. John Cabrido sdb

for a Cause

'Rot bilong Kruse'

Photos:

Enactment of the Way of the Cross

DBTI students participate prayerfully

A long line of coins

PORT MORESBY:

16 April 2011 -- A

much-loved Lenten

practice in Papua

New Guinea is the

Good Friday “Rot

bilong Kruse” (Way

of the Cross). In

many “priest-less”

villages, this devo-

tional practice is led

by lay people and

can wind through

mountainous paths

kilometres long! In

2009, I presided over

one such endless,

village Rot bilong

Kruse and I almost

fainted by the sixth

station (!) from ex-

haustion, thirst and

sun-stroke!

On 15 April, the

Salesians, FMA Sis-

ters, staff and stu-

dents of the Don

Bosco Technological Institute (Port Moresby, Papua New

Guinea) held its Lenten Rot bilong Kruse within the school

campus. Ms. Judith Kaidoga (3rd Yr. Student) was the

overall coordinator and adapted the devotional text with

contextualized, youthful prayers. Together with Mr. John

Viritia (2nd Yr.) and assisted by Sr. Pamela Vecina FMA,

Ms. Kaidoga organized a complete ensemble of passion

characters, musicians and readers to interpret Jesus‟ Pas-

sion in a moving, reflective way adapted to young people.

Mr. John Aribi (1st Yr.), who was cast as Jesus, internal-

ized his character so much, he instructed the “Roman sol-

diers” to act out their parts fully, and brought some of the

students to tears. The cast of actors was complete with an

ever ubiquitous “devil” who tested Jesus throughout, as

inspired by Gibson‟s “Passion of the Christ”.

The “Rot bilong Kruse” ended in the school gymnasium

with an appropriate social-awareness activity. As sug-

gested by newcomer Mr. Jacob Henry (1st Yr.), the Stu-

dent Representative Council organized a “Coin Trail for

Japan”. Students were encouraged to bring 20-Toea coins

which they lined up by class/technology groupings. It was

a fun-ending to the religious event and brought out the

lesson that Jesus‟ offering of self beckons one‟s own as

well. Oh, yes, Electrical Technology and Computer Tech-

nology students competed to a closely (and amicably)

fought finish as they led the school to raising a significant

amount for Japan.

– Word of God Camp

by Rexlyn Kibut, DBTI student

300 Youth for Mary

PORT MORESBY: 25 May

2011 -- From 20 - 22 May, a

very significant event of

prayer, fellowship and mission

took place in DBTI, Port Mo-

resby, participated in by close

to 300 young people from dif-

ferent secondary schools in-

cluding several colleges and

universities. This is the 4th

Marian camp for the 300 Youth for Mary.

The participants were fortunate to have Fr John

Cabrido, SDB, as the main resource person. He gave two

talks on becoming true prophets and disciples of Jesus,

exhorting the young to proclaim the Word of God by living

it daily. He gave them four words through which they can

test whether they are true disciples of Jesus: joy, charity,

doctrine and obedience.

A most awaited moment of the camp was the sending

off for mission. The participants, divided into four groups

of Matthew, Mark, Luke and John, were sent off for a few

hours of mission. Two groups went to visit the Port Mo-

resby General Hospital, one group went to the Bomana

Penitentiary and another visited an orphanage, We Care,

at Waigani.

The young people, with hearts of true disciples, shared

God‟s Word, prayed with the sick, the prisoners and the

orphans. They gave joy to those they visited, sang songs

for them and listened to their stories. They were happy to

see the children laugh, they were touched by the stories of

the sick and the prisoners. Even for just a short while, the

young people lighted up and “gave flavour” to the lives of

the people they visited and it was an enriching experience

for both.

In his homily at the concluding Mass, Fr. John Cabrido

left them a challenge – three words to live by so as to be

true prophets and disciples – True love, Life, Truth.

Fr. Valeriano Barbero, the spiritual adviser of the group,

also exhorted them to love Mary very much and to imitate

her example in their life. He invited them to be back for

next year‟s camp and hopefully, there will be more than

300 of them!

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Be with us

Mary

- Fr. Roger Miranda sdb

Students carry Our Lady in Procession

KOKOPO, EAST NEW BRITAIN: 22 May 2011 -- Vunabosco

Agro-Technical School in Kokopo, East New Britain, Papua New

Guinea celebrated the Solemnity of Mary Help of Christians in

advance last 20th of May 2011. The theme of the whole cele-

bration was “Be with us Mary”.

Students and staff participated well. It started with a Marian

Rally organised by the Marian Group of the school specifically,

Blue House. Everyone gathered at the soccer field for the first

station of the Luminous Mysteries. Some students from different

classes acted like a picture frame for each Luminous Mystery. A

Gospel reading depicting that mystery was read by Fr. Roger

Miranda, SDB, the Rector, and a short reflection was also read

by one of the students in that class. During the procession, eve-

ryone recited the rosary which was led by a sponsoring class

matched with Marian songs till the next station. Since the stu-

dents were divided by the house colours: Blue, Red, Yellow and

Green, the day became really very colourful. The Marian rally

ended at the gymnasium after the blessing of Mary Help of

Christians imparted by the Rector.

This activity was followed by the Inter-house Sports Carnival

held at the soccer field of the school. Students competed with

the different activities organized by Mr Henry Baining, the Sports

Coordinator. All four colours presented an item each in march-

ing, fancy drill and yell/cheering competitions, followed by the

track and field events in the different categories: 100m., 200m,

Fr. Roger Miranda sdb, Rector speaks

400m, 800m and 1500m Junior, Intermediate and Senior divi-

sions. The statue of Mary Help of Christians was also placed in

a prominent place as if watching the boys in their competition.

After the 800m competition, it started drizzling. Fr Rector whis-

pered a little request to Mary and after a short while, the rain

stopped! Pelting rain came when everyone had finished eating

their lunch and all the competitions were over. Yes, Mary was

really with us during that day! Red House was the over-all

champion for the track and field events. Yellow House got sec-

ond place.

On 22 May, Sunday, the school also celebrated Parents/

Guardians Day. Everyone gathered at the school gymnasium for

the celebration of the Eucharist in honour of Mary Help of Chris-

tians. Fr Rector was the main celebrant and together with him

was Fr Clifford Morais, the Principal. A short program organised

by the students followed after Mass. Two parents gave their

responses after the program and they were very grateful for

what Don Bosco was doing for their children. They were very

appreciative of the formation these Bosconians receive from the

Salesians and their educators. Everyone then gathered into their

respective classrooms and enjoyed the agape together.

It was a wonderful moment for everybody to celebrate Mary's

feast day. All throughout these days, Mary‟s presence was really

felt. Yes, Mary our Mother, be with us and guide us always

along the right path!

WORD Proclaiming the

- Fr. John Cabrido sdb

in Kiriwina

I arrived in Kiriwina two years late!

Fr. Sonny Fajardo, our Salesian par-

ish priest for the Trobriand Islands,

popularly called the “Isles of Love” by

the Polish self-styled anthropologist

Bronislaw Malinowski, first invited me

to give a Bible seminar for his parish

leaders in early 2009. Unfortunately, heavy rains during that time

had caused a shortage of yam crops and the parish initiative had

to be scrapped. So when Fr. Sonny renewed the invitation late

last year, I speedily accepted it not only for a chance to explore

Kiriwina‟s coral paradise but also to help out a confrere.

My luggage was definitely overweight. I had to bring all my

teaching equipment including handouts, a laptop and even a pro-

jector! More than that, Fr. Timothy Choi took the occasion to beef

up Fr. Sonny‟s pantry with canned goods and other food stuffs.

To top it off, Fr. Albert Swer also sent an air pump for the parish

bicycle!

After an unusually pleasant (and punctual!) flight with Airlines

PNG, I landed in Losuia to an unforgettable sight. The airport was

a tiny structure whose perimeter fence was packed with people. It

seemed that half the island‟s population of 40,000 was there to

ogle the new arrivals or await the latest mail. Mercifully, Fr. Sonny

was already around to help retrieve my luggage once these were

flung with total disregard on the grassy ground.

The Bible seminar began the next day, 09 May (Monday) and

was attended by some 120 parish leaders. These came from the

island‟s six Catholic communities. Mixed with the predominantly

elderly crowd were some 15 “youths”. Apparently, in Kiriwina, to

be called “youth” meant that the young person was an “out-of-

school” drop out. When I inquired why there were not that many

young people (since the villages we passed by all seemed like

“children-factories”), the par-

ish elders gently explained to

me that now was their time,

and that the “time” of the

youth would have to wait for

the future.

For the next five days I

gave three lectures and/or

conducted workshops daily,

two in the morning and one in

the afternoon until 4:30 PM.

The 15 talks spanned the en-

tire Bible and included bible

sharing sessions, dances, drama and art. What struck me with

this latest venture was the eagerness and consistent number of

participants whop walked for an hour to an hour-and-a-half jour-

ney on foot. To commemorate the beatification of our dearly be-

loved John Paul II, we viewed a two-part Italian produced film on

his life (in English, of course). The community of sisters, Daugh-

ters of Mary Immaculate (PIME Sisters), generously cooked our

meals.

I flew out of Kiriwina the next Sunday, 15 May, deeply im-

pressed by the warmth of the people and the paucity of opportu-

nity and the dearth of hope for the island‟s youth. The valiant

efforts of missionaries past (MSC and PIME) and those present

(Reparation Sisters in Gusaweta; PIME Sisters in Wapipi; and Fr.

Sonny) are truly inspiring. I deeply pray that our “sharing of the

Word” may sustain the people of Kiriwina in their trials and nur-

ture their faith.

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1.10 Page 10

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Character and Work habits

essential for Industry

“Develop an honest

character and good

work habits that will

enable you complete

every job you are en-

trusted with”, said

Max Kilokilo, Electrical

In the Junior Electrical Laboratory and with

Instructors John Ramo and Silas Raymond

Supervisor, GPPOL,

Tetere, Solomon Is-

lands as he spoke to

the Electrical course students at Don Bosco

Technical Institute, Henderson on 11th May,

2011.

The Senior and Junior Electrical students

were happy to have Max Kilokilo examine

their practical work and ask them questions on the same. The

senior boys were questioned on their understanding of Industrial

diagrams and circuits as they went about their practical work,

while the junior boys were questioned on domestic wiring as they

made connections on their work panels.

Max Kilokilo, a Papua New

Guinea National, has been

working for New Britain Palm Oil

for the past 17 years and has

been here in the Solomon Is-

lands for the past 6 years.

Max Kilokilo examines the

work of Loutero Rosalio,

Senior Electrical student.

Teaching is a VOCATION

“Teaching

is a voca-

tion, that

demands

total dedi-

cation and

commit-

ment to

my ca-

reer”, said

Philippa

Riimanu,

Life Skills

Instructor

for the past 3 years at Dion Bosco Technical Institute, Henderson.

“It is not just about completing the curriculum, but about enabling

every student reach his or her destination and goal in life, she

continued.

22 teachers, instructors and staff attended a weekend re-

treat at Don Bosco House of Prayer, Kola Ridge on 20th

and 21st May, 2011. The retreat gave an opportunity for

the teachers to pick out their weaknesses, reflect on them

and has challenged them to find solutions to help the

young. Inspiring talks, prayerful moments, group sharing,

reflective discussions formed part of the programme at the

weekend. The participants also had the opportunity to

make their confession and make their peace with God,

thus enabling them reach out to others in peace. Value

Education classes and Retreats for staff and students are

extracurricular activities, necessary to develop spirituality

and good attitudes in persons.

“Return to Don Bosco” as envisaged by Fr. Pascal

Chavez sdb, Rector Major, was the theme of the Retreat.

“Knowing Don Bosco, understanding his Spirit and put-

ting it into practice is necessary as we deal with young-

sters who are struggling to find a meaning in Life”, said

Fr. Ambrose Pereira sdb Rector as he animated the

group. “There is much more to every person”, said Ms

Camari Bainivalu, Principal as she dwelt on „Who are

you? What do you do?‟ – a very interactive and reflective

session. “We all form part of the body of Christ, and we

need to constantly

witness to Christ in

our lives”, encour-

aged Fr. Tom

Cassidy op as he

celebrated the

Thanksgiving

Eucharist at the

end of the retreat.

Builders for Life ! Field Trip for Carpentry students - Patrick Pasikafoa, Sr. Carpentry student

On Thursday, 19th May, 2011, the

„suspended beam‟”, said Stanley Ulufa‟alu, a junior Carpentry

Carpentry students had a field trip

student.

to Lee Kwok Kuen company. It

The students were able to ask questions of the supervisors Neil

gave the students the opportunity to Buendia and Leo Villariano, who took them around the site and

learn many new things necessary

explaining the different structures. Finally they were told, “The

for the Industry. It has enabled the way you behave at Don Bosco Technical Institute, will determine

students expand their knowledge

the way you succeed in the Industry. You need to be punctual

and practical skills and given them and committed to your task and you will

insights to be “Builders for Life”.

succeed in your work”, said Mr. Neil Buen-

dia emphatically.

Lensly Kio excitedly shared his ex-

perience with his school mates.

Inspired and motivated the students show it

“The visit has given us openings for in their work as they give of their best in

our On-the-job training next year”, he said. “The visit has been

their class and work at the Institute.

very instructive. It has given me a clearer understanding of the

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2 Pages 11-20

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2.1 Page 11

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CSohmpautreir nShogrt

Course

with

the

Disabled

- Fr. Ambrose Pereira

HENDERSON (SI): 8 June 2011 --

Don Bosco Technical Institute, Hen-

derson, had an enriching weekend

last weekend (4-5 June) for all who

Paulus Buna assisting

participated in the pro-

gramme. “Every year the students

look forward to this opportunity to sit behind a computer and

learn”, said Br George Van der Zant sm, Director, San Isidro, as

he expressed his thanks for the possibility of having the stu-

dents there on the weekend programme. “They like coming

here to Don Bosco, because you are so very warm, welcoming

and accepting of them”, continued an emotional Br George.

31 students from the San Isidro Care Centre, Aruligo, West

Guadalcanal spent an enriching weekend at Don Bosco. The

programme organized by Ms Mana Utsunomiya, JICA Volunteer

and Mr Paulus Buna, PNG had 4 computer sessions, each of

which concluded with an assignment that brought smiles to the

faces of the students. Ms Mary Maneka sign language Teacher

interpreted the instructions for the students while 15 DBTI stu-

dents leaders and teachers personally assisted and ensured

that the disabled were able to understand and perform as re-

quired.

A collection of SBD 226.30 was made by the students of Don

Bosco Technical Institute, while the TVET section gave cartoons

of noodles, biscuits and cold drinks for the programme.

“In our changing world, we need to constantly update our-

selves. It is wonderful that we can give our disabled friends an

opportunity to learn computers as well”, Paulus Buna, Electrical

and Computer Instructor.

“If I am motivated, I can motivate others. If I

am confused, I confuse as well”, said Ms Mana

Utsunomiya, Computer Instructor. “It is up to

me to give them simple instructions, so that

they are able to follow”, she said.

Melerlyn Supa, Peter Nima and Patrick Pasikola

at a computer

“I am indeed proud that

the students, some of

whom are using a mouse

and a keyboard for the first

time have done so well at

the programme‟, said Ronu-

aldo Mondez, Automotive Kalista Damkisa delighted

and Computer Instructor.

“The students have been very interested in all that they

have learnt in computers”, said Mary Maneka, sign lan-

guage teacher.

“Thank you for the programme, it really helps our stu-

dents. It has proved to them that they are not bad, but can

do something. Providing this computer programme to

them has been a great boost to them, for which I am grate-

ful”, Peter Woria, Principal of San Isidro Centre, Aruligo.

“Despite the fact that I have been here at Don Bosco for

just a few months, I am very happy and proud to share my

gifts and talents and what I have learnt in computers with

our deaf and dumb friends”, Stephen Maetora, Junior Auto

student. “It encourages me to give of my best to those in

need”, he said.

“The weekend has been very interesting. The deaf and

dumb students use their eyes as their ears to listen and

their hands as their mouth to speak and communicate”,

said Brenda Nina, Form 3 student.

The students enjoyed every moment of their stay at Don

Bosco. The Eucharist was a lively

one which gave the opportunity for

the students to pray and sing to-

gether. They also enjoyed the

screening of a very powerful and

thought provoking film “Vertical Limit‟.

Mana Utsunomiya

assisting a participant

June 14: 31st anniversary of SDB's presence in PNG

July 6 : Spiritual Moderatos' Meeting

July 7-9: Quinnquennial meeting

July 9 - 15: 1st Batch SDB Annual Retreat

July 15 : Delegation Day

July 16 : Forum on Mass Media for Salesian Family

July 17 : Salesians Family Day

July 17 - 23: 2nd Batch SDB Annual Retreat (Rectors)

July 24 :Rectors' meeting

TAVUR — The newsletter of the Salesian delegation of Papua New Guinea and the Solomon Islands

2.2 Page 12

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- austraLasia, Brother Hilario Seo

Thanks to: Fr. Julian Fox and Sr. Anna Maria fma

Heart-warming interview with

Mother Apollinaris SCJ

Here are extracts from an interview with Mother Apollinaris, the Mother General of the

Sisters of the Charity of Jesus (SCJ) also known in English as the Caritas Sisters, or the

Caritas Sisters of Jesus. They were formally known as the CSM or Caritas Sisters of

Miyazaki, but that name altered officially several years back.

The SCJ have spread widely throughout the world. They are cur-

rently in 13 countries, about to extend to a 14th (the entirely new

national of South Sudan) and have many vocations from a 15th

(Vietnam). They are currently in Japan, Korea, Brazil, Peru, Bo-

livia, Argentina, Philippines, PNG, China, Australia, the US, Ger-

many and Italy; in fact the Generalate is now in Rome. This

month the Sisters gain their first PNG-born Sister - a blessing

after 25 years working in PNG, in Port Moresby, nearby the Sale-

sian administrative centre.

Mother Apollinaris warmed especially to the question regarding

challenges and opportunities for the SCJ in the world today. She

speaks especially of the drama of loss of hope represented by

suicide, the incidence of which is so high in Japan and Korea that

the Bishops' Conferences of both nations have addressed it as a

central theme. Mother Apollinaris says the Sisters wish to project

a culture of Love, Life and Vocation in

these two nations, particularly where

young people are beset by a materialistic

culture of success which is ultimately

doomed to failure. The Sisters confront

this problem in many ways through their

Fr. Valeriano Barbero sdb, photographed to-

gether with the CARITAS Sisters of PNG, 2005

work with families and the poor and suffering.

Asked about the Salesian Family, Mother Apollinaris marvels

at the fruitfulness of the Salesian charism as represented by its

28 official groups, and highlights the importance of the annual

Strenna from the Rector Major as an inspiration and plan of

action. Recently she brought all of her superiors together in

Rome and brought them to the Rector Major so they could hear

his words as Don Bosco's successor. It is through their belong-

ing to the Salesian Family and also by their being located now

in Rome that they gain a sense of the Church's universality and

can think and breathe with the Church. Mother Apollinaris took

part in the Synod on the Word of God and found this very en-

riching for the same reasons.

She noted the cooperation that is especially evident in Latin

America (she cited Bolivia and Brazil) amongst member groups

of the Salesian Family, and in the same breath mentioned the

close work between the SCJs and SDBs in Japan.

Now the Sisters are looking forward to their new presence

next year in South Sudan. They have asked their entire Congre-

gation to be part of this venture, to form an international com-

munity. They will commence by drawing five sisters from vari-

ous countries, and will work side by side with other member

groups of the Salesian Family already established in Southern

Sudan.

JUNE

5. Cl. SACHITULA Pedro

12. Cl. LE Mac Khai

Cl. OHOAU Jefferson

18. Fr. COLOMA Redentor

Fr. SWER Albert

JULY

28. Fr. CABRIDO John

31. Fr. DEC Wieslaw

Fr. MARAVILLA Alfred

AUGUST

10. Dn. VERGOUW Peter

17. Fr. MIRANDA Roger

18. Fr. XALXO Pankaj

26. Cl. PANO Gilbert

31. Fr. BARBERO Valeriano

Faith in God doesn’t exempt

you from life’s trials;

it sustains you in them and

you grow stronger as a result of them.

MEDIA COURSE

for Salesians, youth animators and teachers

26th to 30th September, 2011

Emmaus Retreat Centre, Port Moresby, PNG

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 August, 2011

TAVUR Edition June, 2011

Contributing authors:

Fr. Raffy Galve, Br. Moise Paluku sdb, Pedro Sachitula sdb, Fr.

Angelo Sanchez sdb, Fr. Dominic Kachira sdb, Mr Harold Argante,

Fr. Julian Fox, Fr. John Cabrido, Rexlyn Kibut, Fr. Roger Miranda,

Patrick Pasikafoa, Fr. Ambrose Pereira.

Layout and editing:

Fr. Ambrose Pereira 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

TAVUR—TAVUR - The newsletter of the Salesian delegation of Papua New Guinea and the Solomon Islands