Subject: 'austraLasia' # 253

SOLOMON ISLANDS: SALESIANS FOR PRISON?

A. Pereira

HONIARA:15th Oct --Inmates told to reform in prison

ROVE Prison inmates were recently paid a good-will visit by the

representative of the Pope in Papua New Guinea and Solomon Islands,

Archbishop Hans Schwemmer. While there, Archbishop Schwemmer reminded the

prisoners to use the opportunity of life in prison to reform and reconstruct

their lives.

He reminded the inmates that "Year 2000 is to be a personal encounter and

communication with Jesus". "Personal conversion, which opens one's heart to

God. Restoration and Reconciliation with God as well as with neighbour as

well as Reconstruction are needed for a joyous life ahead", he emphasised to

the prisoners.

The Archbishop was accompanied by Archbishop Adrian Smith of Honiara, Fr.

Hooymayers, Fr. Luciano Capelli, Fr. Ambrose Pereira and Sr. John Patrick.

The group was shown round the prison compound by Commandant of Central

Prison, Tarion Ekee and other prison officers. Fr. Pereira said the

visitors were treated to a fine rendering of the Solomon Islands Anthem and

God Save the Queen. The Archbishop also paid a visit to the lone female

prisoner, who is housed in the staff officers due to lack of space. He was

also presented with a souvenir by Commandant Ekee.

Meanwhile, Fr. Capelli and Fr. Pereira, together with the prison authorities

are looking into possibilities for rehabilitation of the prisoners. Sr.

John Patrick and Fr. Hooymayers have been visiting and assisting the

prisoners for several years.

Solomon Star dated 13th October, 99

Dear friends,

The past month has been interesting - visits around Honiara and Guadalcanal

to see how best we as Salesians of Don Bosco can reach out to you. It was

in those awful jails that Don Bosco saw healthy, strong, intelligent wasting

their years. Perhaps this is where we will set up shop. The Government has

welcomed the idea. The prison authorities are delighted with our presence.

Discussions, plans, proposals are moving back and forth. We need your

prayerful support.

God bless you.

Ambrose sdb

Article - 21

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