By Fr. Ambrose Pereira sdb and Jubbillian Ilai
DBTS Salesian Educator
Kean Zuasula, Salesian Educator
Gabutu, Port Moresby, PNG, 1 March 2022 -- Don Bosco Technical School, Gabutu (DBTS) celebrated the Mass of the Holy Spirit on 25 February 2022. The Provincial Superior for Papua New Guinea and Solomon Islands, Fr. Gregorio Bicomong, SDB presided at the Holy Eucharist. Fr. Pedro Sachitula, SDB, Rector and Fr. Ambrose Pereira, SDB, Spiritual Moderator were the concelebrants. Over a thousand staff and students joined in a well animated Eucharistic celebration.
Before the Eucharistic celebration, Fr Angelo Fazzini SDB, vice Rector and Fr Ambrose offered the students an opportunity to make their peace with God. Several students both Catholic and non-Catholic had the opportunity to hear the words, ‘Go in Peace!’ or to receive words of encouragement and a blessing.
The stage was beautifully decorated with fresh flowers and had a beautiful backdrop of the Strenna 2022. ‘Do all through love, nothing through constraint’ our theme for the year was depicted with vibrant images of young Melanesian people from the DBTS institution.
In his homily, Fr. Gregorio proposed Saints Saint Aloysius Versiglia and Callistus Caravario as models of commitment to protect the life, dignity, and faith of three young women. “Life is holy and sacred”, said Fr Gregorio as he invited the congregation to pray for peace in the world especially in war-torn Ukraine.
Dwelling on the gifts of the Holy Spirit, he highlighted ‘Knowledge’ inviting all to aim at intellectual maturity. He then dwelt on ‘Fear of the Lord’ and highlighted character and the virtues of integrity, selfishness, and responsibility.
After the Eucharistic celebration the school, which had already commenced three weeks ago, had a Solemn Opening. The presentation of the Salesians (3), Salesians Educators (51), Ground Staff (22) and the Student Representative Council members were presented to the staff and students. Each took the Pledge of commitment for the Academic Year 2022.
Then followed the presentation of Special Awards, Academic Awards and Technical Awards to those students who had excelled in 2021.
Finally, everyone enjoyed their delicious lunch to conclude the celebration and a wonderful day.
