By Fr Moise Paluku SDB

Vanuatu, Port Vila, 26 December 2023 -- Early this year, during the third visit to Vanuatu by Fr. Gregorio Bicomong, SDB, PGS Provincial Superior, and Fr. Alfred Maravilla, General Councillor for Missions from February 22nd to 27th, 2023, a Memorandum of Agreement was signed on February 25th. This agreement stated that the first Salesians would arrive in 2025. As part of the preparation for this Salesian Mission, Bishop of Port Vila Bp. Jean Bosco, SM invited the provincial superior that the Salesians participate in the National Catholic Youth Gathering in December 2023. The provincial accepted and delegated two Salesians, Fr. Pedro Sachitula, SDB and Moise Paluku, SDB who are both members of the PGS provincial council, to attend the gathering and undertake possible administrative initiatives.

The Salesians arrived in Port Vila on the 9th and 11th of December, respectively, while the week-long camp commenced on December 10th, 2023, with the Eucharist presided over by Bishop Jean Bosco. Many civil authorities, including the Prime Minister, the Minister of Education, Youth and Sport, and other political representatives, were present. Although 1500 Catholic youths were expected from the six vicariates of the Diocese, some faced transportation difficulties due to a recent cyclone that hit the islands. The two Salesians were warmly introduced and welcomed by the camp participants. James, the chairman of the organizing committee, expressed his joy, stating, "We are glad to be joined by the sons of Don Bosco, who are soon to be or are already part of our diocese, inspiring our youngsters with their presence and sharing."

Furthermore, Bishop, in his welcoming remarks, stated, "We are now assured that many young people here and, in the islands, loved and created in the image of God, will also have the chance to experience the love of Jesus and Mary in the style of Don Bosco, like thousands more around the world."

The gathering had the theme: "Jeune Homme or Fille, Je te le dis, Leve toi" (Young man and girl, I say to you, rise up, Mark 5:4). Each subtopic for the six days included a catechism part accompanied by life integration talks on topics such as overseas workforce, climate change, small business, health, and common diseases in the country. The Saturday morning was dedicated to the presentation of the Salesians of Don Bosco, their work in the world, and in PGS. The day started with vibrant animation by Fr. Pedro and ended with an engaging Q&A session, revealing the eagerness of the youth of Vanuatu to start a new experience in the diocese with Don Bosco. "When precisely are you coming?" and "Who will have the opportunity to be part of your program?" were some of the questions.

The days in Vanuatu were adorned with visits to the upcoming Don Bosco compound and the ongoing renovation of St. Joseph, 2nd Lagoon, Catholic church. There was an opportunity to meet with the Vanuatu Labour Commissioner, who eagerly anticipates assisting the Salesians in any way possible. The team also met with the Minister of Youth and Sport and his Directeur General for possible liaison or collaboration in our youth center activities. They also met the Minister of Education and his DG, from whom they learned about the difficulties the country is facing in education and where the Salesian education system could contribute. For technical information, they met the Vanuatu Qualification Framework Registration Authority and the Principal of the Vanuatu Institute of Technology.

From this visit to the country of Vanuatu, "we hope the PGS provincial council will determine the next visit and the official date of our presence in Vanuatu." Fr. Pedro, who is also the vice-provincial, explained. The visit to Vanuatu has given a picture of the youth, the renewed expectation of the bishop and the possible challenges. "There is great hope for vocation and a successful mission for us. We entrust all to the Madonna, the Help of Christians, who guided and taught St. John Bosco, that she may bring this dream to reality," Fr. Pedro added.

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