By Sr Shanty Joseph, MSI

Araimiri, PNG, 8 May 2018 -- The entire campus of Don Bosco, Araimiri was filled with drizzles of joy and bubbling life as the long awaited day unfolded with its charming countenance on May 8th 2018. It was a fabulous day for MSIs as we started our new presence at Araimiri in Kerema Diocese. It is amazing to witness how MSI has grown step by step over the three decades in PNG and has reached another milestone in our journey by opening a new community in the remote area of Gulf Province.

As the celebration drew near the Parish Church at Araimiri stood shining with all its grandeur and hue. A euphoric melody saturated the entire milieu. The solemn Eucharistic celebration was presided over by Bishop of Kerema, Peter Baquero SDB along with the Salesian community Fr Shoji, Fr Heraldo, Fr Joseph and Fr Gilbert. They were led to the altar of God by our students with their spectacular cultural dances, followed by an apt introduction by Sr Bridgit Suvakeen on the significance of the day. His grace in his homily invited all to be charged with the power of the Holy Spirit and move the hearts of all people. He applauded the sisters for their willingness to work hand in hand with the Salesian community in caring for the girls of the boarding and in the pastoral apostolate. The melodious choir led by Br. Sylvester and diverse traditional dances added flavour and vitality to the Eucharistic celebration.

During the mass the newly formed community members Sr Elizabeth, Sr Shephali and Sr Shanty received special blessings from the bishop as he extended his hands and prayed over them. Later, he exhorted the local community to take care of the sisters and support them.

After the Holy Eucharist the priests, invited guests, sisters, staff and students were led by Simbu and Baimuru dancers with their rhythmic movements to the portal of Mother Dones Convent. After which the Shepherd of the Diocese Bp Peter, Sr Mary Cheekkanllel, the Delegate Superior and Sr Elizabeth, the community leader cut the multi-coloured ornate ribbons instantaneously followed by the blessings of the house. With a standing ovation the gathering welcomed the opening and blessing of the convent building.

The dream of Mother Dones, foundress of the congregation to open a new presence in the periphery of Kerema where only a handful of religious work has been realized.

Today we feel elated that our mission has grown in leaps and bounds in PNG with many local vocations and 8 communities. The very presence of the guests, our sisters from Port Moresby, Caritas sisters and MC Sisters added delight and pomp to the ceremony. The sumptuous meal enhanced the bond unity with the community and one another.

All rejoice and thank the Lord for His myriads of blessings on our family and mission.

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