Young people celebrate Wantok Bosco in Solomon Islands

By Fr. Robinson Parappilly, SDB

       Tetere, Solomon Islands, 19 October 2022 -- Young people of Solomon Islands celebrated Colors of Joy through Wantok Bosco celebrations with the theme 'Do all through Love ' the strenna of the Rector Major.

       250 young Bosconians from Don Bosco Henderson, Mary Mazzarello Development Centre, Kukum Holy Family Parish, Don Bosco RTC, and Christ the King Parish came together from October 14th to 16th for the annual event.

       The program began with a meditative sung Rosary service animated by Fr. Robinson Parappilly that set the mood of prayer and reflection. They watched the movie 'For the Greater Glory ' the life of Miguel Pro, a Jesuit priest from Mexico who sacrificed his life for Christ by proclaiming ‘Viva Cristo Rey!’ ‘Long live Christ the King!’ imprinted the marks of becoming a witness of Christ in this world.

       The second day began with the Holy Eucharist celebration presided by Fr. Gregory Bicomong, the Provincial of PGS province. He emphasized the importance of devotion to Our Blessed Mother and praying the Holy Rosary.

       This was followed by a warming up session conducted by Sr. Ememma FMA. Then they were divided into groups for the planning for the talent night.

       Fr. Gregory Bicomong then gave the first input talk on 'the challenges of young people in the modern world'where he emphasized the importance of the need to cultivate Character based on Jesus' values. Jesus stood for Character.

       The program continued with sports and games, moments of prayer and interaction.

       Ms. Philisters Afuna from Kukum Holy Family Parish who is also a current student in Bachelor of Science from the University of South Pacific (USP) attending the program for the first time commended: "Meeting with young people from different DB centers is a very good experience. The Don Bosco environment is very healthy and conducive for young people and for this kind of gathering. Activities were exciting and it builds up our confidence. It was full of fun-filled activities and kept us alive.”

       “We are grateful to the Salesians for organizing the Wantok Bosco and the lives of young people are so alive and active. We felt the family spirit and joy of being together. The Salesian Family and ADMA accompanied us with their selfless service and provided us with very sumptuous meals. God bless them all,” stated Mr. Wilson Lobo, the youth coordinator of Tetere Parish who is also an Agri Business student at DBRTC.

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