Ended the extraordinary visit to Papua New Guinea and Solomon Islands

By Fr Ariel Macatangay, SDB

Port Moresby, PNG, 16 May 2016 -- Fr Maria Arokiam Kanaga ended his extraordinary visit to Papua New Guinea and Solomon Islands (PGS). He commenced his visit on the 17th April and concluded it on the 16th May, 2016. He visited all the eight Salesian communities, interacted with Salesians, students and the lay collaborators and expressed sentiments of gratitude for the arrangements of care and travel. He was most appreciative of the piety of the people in this catholic country a key province of Oceania and one that is open to much development.

During the month long visitation, he facilitated the nomination of a new superior for the soon to be erected Vice-Province of PGS, hopefully sometime this July.

At the Emmaus Conference Center, Don Bosco Technological Institute Compound, Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea (PNG), he met the Delegation Council. He shared his observations and experiences with all the Salesians present, including Rectors from far-away communities of PNG. He challenged the Salesians to be more of leaders and animators, rather than managers and administrators. He is happy with the educational initiatives and development plans, particularly in the pastoral field catering to the young in the poorer areas. He has encouraged concrete youth programs to cater to a larger number of young people at both the local and church levels.

At the concelebrated Thanksgiving Eucharistic celebration participated in by all Salesians and aspirants, Fr. Arokiam focused on the figure of St. John the Evangelist as the Beloved apostle of Christ and as a model for all religious. He invited all Salesians and aspirants to be recognized by the people whom they serve not so much as builders, scholars, or organizers, as much as being known as beloved disciples of Jesus Christ.

A hearty family dinner capped the fruitful and fraternal visit of Fr. Arokiam as representing the Rector Major and Don Bosco.

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