By Mr. Narol Sapak, Pastoral Team

Gabutu, PNG, 25 June 2016 -- Time is a priceless commodity and runs fast for those who are busy with their ordinary daily duties. The annual retreat gave the ITC 2 students of 2016, a special opportunity to step back in time and reflect on how they lived their lives. The program, directed towards the spiritual development and character formation, enabled the student reflect on how they can live as a good Christians and honest citizens. For most of the ITC 2 students of 2016, this will probably be their last spiritual retreat as students of DBTS, Gabutu, Papua New Guinea. It was time spent well!

The two-day retreat was held in the Shrine of Mary Help of Christians and Emmaus Conference Centre at DBTI, East Boroko, on the 3rd-4th of June (MFM), 10-11th (ELEC A/MVM A) and 24-25th (ELEC B/MVM B).

The program commenced with a peculiar yet remarkable parable - The Pencil Parable. Many see the pencil as an ordinary instrument used for drawing and sketching. However, going through the parable, the story brought home a lot of important lessons for life. It opened a new way of perceiving life, being optimistic and caring for the environment around us. It dwelt on allowing the Lord, our maker, enable us leave a positive mark everywhere we go. “Life is a gift from God and as young men growing up, one must foster good and healthy relationships with oneself, others and God”, stressed the animators. There were video presentations, group sharing, individual prayer and reflection, bonding, fun games and actions songs. The retreat also strengthened the class brotherhood and kept hope alive for a better future and career ahead.

The spiritual retreat ended with a wonderful Eucharist celebrated by Fr. Ambrose. The Pastoral team, led by Fr. Ambrose, Ms. Donnabel, Ms. Rica and assisted by Mr. George, Mr. Ian, Mr. Dylan, Mr. Scott, Ms. Rexlyn and Mr. Narol were present to facilitate and animate the program.

After final remarks and acknowledgements, the students thoroughly cleaned the session halls and left the place spick and span. Best wishes to the ITC-2 students on their OJT and all that life holds for them! Make us proud by living fully your Bosconian virtues.

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