PNG-SDB TURNS 21
F. Panfilo sdb
PORT MORESBY: 14th June -- Today, 14 June 2001, our Salesian presence in Papua New Guinea becomes 21 years old.
It is a day of rejoicing because of the marvelous achievements being accomplished.
Truly we have to say that the Blessed Virgin has been the wonder worker in this God’s plan. We are the witnesses of Her maternal presence from that very day - feast of the Immaculate Heart of Mary-, when the first three Salesians reached the shore of Araimiri.
Today the Salesians are working in six centres, catering to hundreds of young people in schools, in parishes and in the frontier line. They are involved in several diocesan pastoral projects and Bishops and Government officials continually request their services.
Three young Papuans have already made their first profession as Salesians and another four are now in the novitiate. The formation house (Savio Haus), has fourteen eager youthful men wanting to know more about the Salesian way of life.
A lot has been accomplished but there are many dreams still to be brought to reality.
One of them: for the 25th anniversary, as a sign of gratitude to Mary, we wish to make Her visibly present by building a Church in Her honour. This will also be a point of reference for the youth of Papua New Guinea who, during these difficult times, need so much to feel the presence of a mother.
I know it is a challenge, but we who have started this work in this Country realize that our presence in Papua New Guinea will not be complete unless She will have a place from which Her glory can go forth.
Yes it is a challenge, but miracles still do happen.
