Tavur 2011 June


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
TAVUR The newsletter of the Salesian delegation of Papua New Guinea and the Solomon Islands
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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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9

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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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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
11

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