By Lucy Napitalai

Simbu, PNG 22 June 2024 -- Since its launch in July 2023, Corporate Bosco, an organization for local associations and informal groups of past pupils and friends of Don Bosco in PNG and Solomon Islands, has aimed to connect individuals who have experienced or are inspired by Don Bosco's formation in various contexts. From June 14th to 17th, the executive committee of Corporate Bosco carried out one of their planned activities for 2024: a retreat for the council members of the executive committee.

Members from Port Moresby flew into the nearest airport in Goroka to reach Don Bosco Simbu Technical College in Kumgi, where Fr. Clifford Morais, SDB, the Delegate for Past Pupils and the driving force behind the group's formation, warmly welcomed them for the long weekend.

After traveling from the airport in Goroka to Simbu on the first day, the participants toured the beautiful campus of the college before resting. The following activities included engaging dialogues with each other and the three Salesians - Fr. Clifford, Fr. Bernard Kaiau, SDB, and Br. Conrad Vamilat, SDB - as well as sightseeing. The main activity on the second day involved reviewing the group's draft statutes in preparation for submission to the World Confederation of Don Bosco by the end of the month. The past pupils also participated in the students' daily prayer activities. On the third day, following morning Mass, everyone embarked on a road trip, with the highlight being a visit to the miraculous National Shrine of Divine Mercy in Mt. Hagen. The serene exterior and interior of the shrine inspired moments of prayer and reflection. The fourth day had everyone travel back to Port Moresby.

The beautiful environment of Don Bosco Simbu, combined with the warm hospitality of the Salesians and students, made for a memorable weekend. It was a heartfelt time of bonding, camaraderie, and a true display of the Don Bosco family spirit for the six participants. Heartfelt gratitude to Fr. Clifford, Fr. Bernard, Br. Conrad, and their team of staff and students for all their efforts in making the program successful and memorable, and for rekindling the fire of the Salesian family spirit for the solidarity of the group.

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