Boroko, Port Moresby, PNG, 17 July 2022 -- The Vice-Province of Papua New Guinea and Solomon Islands celebrated their Province Day commemorating the Jubilarians of the vice-province with a solemn Eucharistic celebration in the Shrine of Mary Help of Christians on 9 July 2022. On that occasion the perpetual profession of Cl Jöel Attisio was also held.
Fr. Gregorio Bicomong, Provincial Superior, was the main celebrant at the celebration. Joining him were Salesians, Salesian sisters, Caritas sisters, MSMHC, Salesian Co-operators, students and past pupils.
The Jubilarians celebrated were: Fr Eduardo Revilla, 60 years of Ordination, Fr Dominic Kachira, 40 years of Ordination, Fr Roger Miranda and Fr Ariel Macatangay, 30 years of Ordination and Fr Albert Swer, 25 years of Perpetual Profession.
“Today is a celebration of commitment and fidelity”, said Fr Bicomong as he congratulated the jubilarians. In addressing Cl Jöel, he said that his profession is the fulfilment of our “Baptismal Consecration, a full conformity to Christ through the Special Covenant”. Dwelling on the Jewish and Christian tradition in the canticle (Song of songs), as inspired by St Francis de Sales the preacher reminded Cl Jöel of the bond between Christ, the bridegroom and himself as the bride.
At the conclusion of the Eucharistic celebration, Cl Joel expressed words of thanks and gratitude to God for His call, His love and faithfulness and consecrating him to be instruments of love, joy and peace among his people. He thanked his parents, family members, wantoks, and all those who have supported him spiritually and materially. He made a special mention of his formators and all those in the West-Africa Province. His invitation to the young people was: “Do not be afraid to give your life to Christ. Together let us bring the joy of the Risen Christ to all those in need”.
An entertaining celebration with songs and dances from the different houses and congregations then followed, together with a sumptuous lunch for the entire Salesian Family.
