Port Moresby, PNG, 10 July 2016 -- Fr Peter Baquero SDB, first superior of the new Vice-Province of Papua New Guinea and Solomon Islands (PGS) was installed at a solemn Eucharistic celebration in the Shrine of Mary Help of Christians, Boroko, Papua New Guinea on 9th July, 2016 at 5.30pm.
The Eucharist was presided over by the representative of the Rector Major Fr Klement Vaclav, Regional Councillor for the East Asia Oceania Region (EAO). Among the 28 concelebrants were Fr Paul Bicomong, Provincial of the Philippines North province, (FIN), Fr Nicolas Guidi, First secretary of the Apostolic Nuncio, Fr Victor Roche SVD, Secretary for the Catholic Bishops Conference of Papua New Guinea and Solomon Islands, Fr Mario Bacliq SDB, preacher for the spiritual retreat and all the priests of the PGS delegation.
Recalling the words of Christ, ‘Do Not be afraid, I am with you always’, Fr Klement reflected on the Lord’s concern to form his disciples by his own example. He stressed on ‘Witnessing as our first Mission’ and encouraged the new provincial to witness by his example and work together with his confreres, the young and the members of the Salesian family.
Dwelling on Blessed Philip Rinaldi, the patron of the new vice-province, he invited all to follow in the footsteps of this faithful disciple of Don Bosco, imitate his missionary zeal, be men of God, build up the Salesian Family groups and be filial Sons of Mary.
Fr Klement also paid tribute to the pioneers, especially Fr Valeriano Barbero and others who have sowed the Salesian seeds in Papua New Guinea 36 years ago. He recalled the memory of Bishop Francis Misobe Osamu SDB, who was instrumental in establishing the first Salesian presence in the Solomon Islands 22 years ago.
After the homily, Fr Peter professed his faith, signed the documents and was presented with an icon of the wine and the branches, amidst the applause of the entire congregation.
The liturgy was animated by the Don Bosco Technological Institute, Boroko students under the leadership of Fr Clifford Morais. Dances by the Sepik and West New Britain groups added a Melanesian flavour to the celebration.
A gathering of nearly 500 persons, representing the entire Salesian family joined in the festive dinner to congratulate the new Superior. Thanks go to Fr Louie Castañeda and his team of dedicated collaborators who coordinated the program. Lively items by different groups entertained the gathering at the celebration.
Earlier in the day, the confreres enjoyed themselves at the Taurama Aquatic and Indoor Sports complex. Thanks to Fr Pankaj Xalxo and the Savio Haus community for a well-organized outing. Before the liturgical celebration as a symbol of the growth of the new province, an avocado sapling was planted in the soon to be completed vice-provincial house. Bl. Philip Rinaldi. Pray for us!
