TAVUR 2011 October :: Newsletters

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TAVUR 2011 October

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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.

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).

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

1.9 Page 9

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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

1.10 Page 10

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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

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

2 Pages 11-20

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2.1 Page 11

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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

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

2.2 Page 12

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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

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