austraLasia 799
PAN-PACIFIC NOVITIATE IN 2004
APIA (Samoa): 2nd February '04 -- They call themselves the 'cradle of Polynesia' in Samoa. For this year at least they may also call themselves the cradle of Pacific Salesianity. In a striking example of regional cooperation, the 2004 novitiate has begun in Samoa with one Japanese, one Papua New Guinean and two Samoan candidates. This is the first time that the Pacific-based novitiate programme for the Australian Province has included candidates from other Provinces and, of course, if it is successful, it is unlikely to be the last.
The common language will be English, though it is almost certain that the two candidates from outside the South Pacific area will be exposed to a good deal of Samoan and, of course, the all-pervasive Samoan culture. The novitiate is located next to Don Bosco Technical Centre Alafua, catering for young men who have dropped out or not completed their normal secondary schooling processes. There are opportunities for the novices to mix with these young men and their teachers.
The Salesian presence in Samoa this year celebrates its 25th anniversary. It is fitting that the Jubilee year be marked by such an opening up to the wider region.
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