By Lucy Urban
Vice Parish Youth Coordinator

       Kokopo, Rabaul, PNG, 30 September 2022 -- The Salesians of Don Bosco in Kokopo East New Britain organized for the youth of Mary Help of Christians Rapolo Parish a three-day gathering, from 23 to 25 September. This event is under the coordination of the Salesian Youth Movement of the vice province (SYM) called Wantok Bosco. The participants were 306 youngsters coming from eight sub-parishes, as well as from Don Bosco school and St. Peter Chanel Catholic College. The theme for this year Wantok Bosco was taken from the Salesian Strenna of the Rector Major: “All through Love.”

       Upon arrival on Friday afternoon, the participants participated at a camp fire to remind them of the love that should burn within them. Around the fire, Fr Moise the parish Priest declared the Wantok Bosco 22 open and the participants with very vibrant war cries introduced their respective communities. A grand and beautiful Eucharistic Adoration was then led by Fr. Juna. During this time the participants had the possibility of making their peace with God through the Sacrament of Reconciliation. Sr. Pamela, FMA concluded the day with her goodnight talk in which she challenged the youngsters to love with commitment in all that they do.

       On Saturday, the Holy Eucharist was presided over by Fr. Moise Paluku, SDB, Parish Priest. In his homily, he highlighted the commemoration of Mary Help of Christians and invited the youth to savor their youthful time, in the presence of Don Bosco and one another loving what they do. During the day, there were a series of talks. Fr Rey Cagsoy, Carmelite challenged the participants to freedom and true love as stated by the church. He engaged the youth in discovering the true meaning of love and going beyond feeling. Mr. Kavanamur, principal of OLSH and his wife shared their experience of love in the family. In the evening, the cultural program gave the youth an opportunity to manifest their youthfulness in song and dance. In his goodnight talk Fr Moise invited the participants to share their talents and contribute to building up joy.

       On Sunday, the Holy Eucharist was the climax of the 3-day gathering. The mass was presided over by Fr Charles and concelebrated by Fr Juna and Fr Moise. He emphasized that love is the great meaning of life. After the mass certificates were awarded to the participants. In his closing remark, Fr Moise acknowledged the active participation and cooperation of the youth. Ms Margaret, college student and participant expressed her gratitude for the invitation extended to them and said that the experience they all went through will remain indelible. The parish youth coordinator, Mr Bernard Norbert, spoke on behalf of the youth and was thankful to the Salesians fathers and sisters for their support and love for the young. He also thanked his fellow community youth leaders for the wonderful collaboration to bring the event to an end. The participants enjoyed the program and are reminded to practice the experiences gained.

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