By Dephney Pukai

       Rabaul, New Britain, PNG, 20 February 2021 -- The 2021 Pastoral Year for the Mary Help of Christians Parish, Rapolo was officially launched on Saturday 6th, February with a day of formation and prayer.

       Participants in the formation included the Parish Pastoral Counsel Members, catechists from various sub parishes, the youth leaders, the communion ministers, finance committee members and the liturgy coordinators.

       The meeting was opened by Father Möise who introduced the Strenna of the Rector Major 2021 to the participants. He later explained the Salesian Culture to the participants since many of them were new to the Salesian environment and reminded the participants that they are valuable to Don Bosco and are members of the Don Bosco EPC-Kokopo.

       The participants were also urged by Father Möise, that moved by hope in Christ they are to commit themselves this year by extending their hands to their fellow brothers and sisters in their respective parishes and sub-parishes.

       Being the third year of the laity in PNG-SI, Head Catechist Nicholas Kukup reminded the laity of their ‘vocation’, in imitation of Blessed Peter ToRot.

       The participants ended the formation with the celebration of the Holy Eucharist and professed their faith as a sign of commitment to God in their ministries.

       Speaking on behalf of the participants, chairlady of Ramale and a member of the Parish Pastoral Council Mrs. Rumu Pukai said this was a new experience to all of them and they felt challenged to be true lay missionaries as they reach out to their communities.

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