VOICE KATOLIKA

CATHOLIC COMMUNICATIONS SOLOMON ISLANDS

Peace for Solomons

Peace for our time

This year is the Great Jubilee of the Birth of Jesus Christ, The Prince of Peace. In our Nation of the Solomon Islands this year, instead of the GOOD NEWS OF PEACE, we have seen and experienced the BAD NEWS OF WAR and DIVISION.

We as Christians are called to be messengers of PEACE ON EARTH. This is the message ‘to people of good will’ with which the angels heralded the arrival of the Prince of Peace. Most good people in the Solomons desire and are seeking ways to bring the GOOD NEWS OF PEACE. This majority are being held hostage by those who force their will on the nation, with guns and intimidation causing burnt–out property, displaced people, young men with guns, fear and trouble, rumors and mistrust even between former friends; such are the bearers of the BAD NEWS.

I ask myself: Am I full of fear, sad news, confusion and a sense of powerlessness? Or rather do I feel a sense of hope, trust in God’s presence despite the murders, feelings of inner strength and desire for peace? Lets look at how the Bible speaks about peace. For the writers of Old Testament, peace means harmony, harmony within us, with the members of our family, within our village, beyond our village, beyond our island. It is a peace that comes from within, from the heart, from hearts filled with goodwill. If there is no good will, there can be no peace. The Bible presents a surprising picture of peace, where differences are lived in harmony, without danger to anyone, WITHOUT FEAR. Try reading Isaiah 6:9-11. Can we sit down with our enemies as the animals are pictured as doing?

The Prince of Peace presents Himself as the gift of peace, a peace that comes from His own heart. Jesus taught them all His Way of Peace. The Jews and Samaritans were enemies to one another. Jewish travellers generally avoided Samaritan towns. Jesus chose to go there, despite the risk. When they were rejected the disciples even suggested He destroy the village by using His power to burn the village, but Jesus rebuked them (Lk 9: 51 – 55).

Jesus always invited His disciples to look into their hearts and see what spirit was moving them. Was it a spirit of peace and goodwill to all? We too are disciples and messengers of Jesus’ GOOD NEWS OF PEACE. Question the paths of former times. (Jeremiah 6:16)

We stand at the crossroads and have to decide which path we will follow, which News do we prefer. Lord guide our feet into the way of peace.

Bishop Bernard O’Grady op, Bishop of Gizo

The difference of Christianity?

In an interview with Radio Australia, I was asked: "Has Christianity made any difference in the situation in Solomon Islands?" That is a challenging question. For me the answer is our Christian Faith has helped the vast majority of our people to choose peace. The majority of Solomon islanders want to love together in peace and harmony without killing and revenge.

These days are our Good Friday, The Prince of Peace, Jesus, is again standing before Pilot. The manipulators are encouraging the mob to reject peace. Unlike the first Good Friday they are not successful in making the crowd to demand his crucifixion. The majority are defending peace. Only a small minority of manipulated people have rejected peace and chosen violence.

Those of us who have chosen peace we must hold strong to our belief. The Prince of Peace will overcome violence and peace will be restored. I thank God for your steadfast trust in the Lord of Peace. Like the Apostles, after the resurrection, we too have to go out with energy proclaiming the kingdom of God. Let us with compassion and forgiveness build up our broken nation. The call to "be perfect as your Heavenly Father is perfect" (Mt. 5:48), demands that we reach out in love to our Fathers, brothers and sons who turned to violence. We will rejoice with them when they return to the home of their Father.

Archbishop Adrian Smith sm, Archbishop of Honiara, 17^th July, 2000

A New Heart for a New Solomon Islands

The Catholic Bishops of Solomon Islands, remind their Catholic people that the Holy Father, John Paul II, is asking all the Catholics to be faithful to the meaning of the Jubilee year as we find it in the Bible and in the Tradition of the Church.

One important task is to reflect on our lives as sons and daughters of our Nation, and as sons and daughters of God, and take positive decisions in order to improve our quality of life. From all corners of Solomon Islands we hear an anguished cry for Peace and Justice and Development. People are crying because they live in constant fear. They are crying for an honest and moral leadership. They are crying because their environment is being destroyed. There are also cries for better health, education, employment, respect for women and for their safety. The social, moral and ethical fabric that holds us together as a nation, a people longing for dignity and freedom seems to be at its lowest level, and to a certain extent, breaking apart. Moral values that guide our decisions seem to be non-existent. Respect and responsibility for life and property is lacking at all levels.

We Bishops call on Solomon Islands:

O arise! O children of this land and heave a new heart for a new Solomon Islands! There is an urgent need for all of us of this land to arise and join together for the good of all. Let us rediscover ourselves using the very words with which our Savior and teacher, Our Lord Jesus Christ, began His preaching: "Repent and believe in the Gospel" (Mk 1:15). That is to say, accept the good news of love, of our adoption as Children of God, and brother and sister of one another as Solomon Islanders. We, urge all, especially the Lay Catholic Professionals, to stand together as one and take the lead in facing this moral, ethical and social crisis that affects the life of our people at this time. Let us arise for our good. Let take a stand for what is just and right. Let us lead our people in the direction of a better life for all of us, together.

Archbishop Adrian Smith sm, Bishop Bernard O’Grady op, Bishop Gerard Loft sm

Many Voices

In our world today, many voices crave for our attention. And we listen and respond to them. At times they pull us in directions that will lead to our downfall. Let’s ask ourselves: Do they deepen our Christian values? Do they make a mockery of our Christian attitudes? Do we listen to the voice of the Gospel or do we allow other voices to dominate our lives?

Each one of us faces these pressures. There is always the temptation to rearrange our priorities in such a way that God does not figure on at the top, or perhaps God does not feature in that list at all. The temptation to a life of ease, to violence, to corruption, to dishonesty, to a life of laxity…. the rewards are short lived. Each one of us is pained by the lack of respect for life, the destruction, the cruelty that is robbing us of lasting PEACE. We need to cleanse our ears, our hearts, our minds, our lives. Let’s start with ourselves.

Fr. Ambrose Pereira sdb - Editor

Living in the Eye of a Cyclone

John Roughan

We're living in pockets of normalcy surrounded by acts of violence. This week Honiara's citizens experienced both but the weight is going ever more towards violence. Most of the world has by now heard about the double murder in our National Hospital but that was but one violent act in a cascade of others. Solomon Star, dated 14^th July, for instance, on its front page featured the picture of a bashed up woman who refused to give her niece up to a uniformed thug. Then followed details of wholesale theft of spirits, beer and cigarettes worth over $50,000 at the Yacht Club during curfew hours and a ten-picture story of mass looting of Public Works Department equipment and housing material. All happened in the centre of town. And that was only one day's reportage!

On Friday, 14^th July, the Catholic Church's Visale clinic in West Guadalcanal fell victim to a 20-strong Eagle commando raid before dawn. Two people - an old man and a secondary school boy from Tangarare Secondary - were shot dead as they ran from the clinic which the raiders proceeded to ransack, shoot up and loot. 15^th July another two people on the road near Kakabona, west of Honiara. were killed as they walked the road in early day light. One was a PNG national while, again, the second was a youth from the local village. This morning as I did our weekly shopping there were a group of young Eagles carrying M14s in the middle of the road.

The city daily witnesses an obvious rise in threats to shop keepers, out and out store robberies, hijacking of vehicles, beatings, etc. The government's strategy of paying out SBD $10 million compensation, on 7^th July, has utterly failed to dampen the current reign of terror. In fact the opposite has happened. It seems to have emboldened certain factions to work even more strongly to destabilize the nation. Now the governments banking that the peace conference between the warring groups - the Eagles and the Isatabu followers - will make a difference. But as with the compensation monies too much is expected from a fragile process. The basic problem that Honiara faces is a law and order one . . . there isn't any! Peace talks will be torturous, painful and open to frequent failure. In the meantime, Honiara's law and order issue will only grow more difficult and dangerous. A third militant force - thugs, thieves, opportunists - many times in Eagle uniforms - roam Honiara's streets and work their own agenda of stealing, looting and threatening. But they are not part of the peace process.

While government actively considers introducing legislation at parliament's next sitting in August, allowing amnesty to militant groups, it should as well insure that certain fragrant human rights abuses - cold-blooded murder, calculated invasion and destruction of safe sanctuaries - hospitals and church premises, execution of prisoners, systematic torture - must attract a judicial review as a first step. Crimes against human rights, just lower our own dignity as human beings and are so serious as to be ruled out in the blanket amnesty which government is currently contemplating. Without such a guarantee, Honiara's crime spree will certainly continue unabated and probably increase.

The Government is contemplating a defense academy – education of militants. It’s wonderful we have seen this need. Perhaps we can pull forces together – the church and the state and strive to give value based education to our people. There are many more possibilities. Perhaps the debate is just beginning.

Melanesian Institute in Goroka

Fr. Henry Paroi OP

What is the Melanesian Institute?

Perhaps many or most of the population in the Solomon Islands is not aware of the existence of such an institute. In 1969 the Melanesian Institute was established in Goroka, PNG by the Catholic Church to help with the cross-cultural understanding necessary for missionary and human development work. A few years later it became an ecumenical institute, joined by the Anglican, Evangelical Lutheran and the United Churches. Our aim is to study Melanesian culture in order to assist people to appreciate their cultural ways and values as enshrined in their National Constitutions, together with the values contained and presented in the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Representatives from each of the above churches form the basic team of the research and teaching staff.

What is our goal?

The primary goal of the Melanesian Institute is to help church communities in the process of making the gospel of Christ meaningful in Melanesian cultures. This is expressed in the symbol of the Institute: a snake climbing a cross. In many Melanesian traditions, the snake represents everlasting life. The cross stands for God’s gift of new life in Christ. By combining these two symbols, the Institute attempts to portray its primary aim: that the people of Melanesia may have abundant life in Christ, and give witness to that life within their own cultural context.

Activities of the Institute

The MI faculty offers information about Melanesian history, changes and development in the context of Christian theology and pastoral leadership of local churches.

Cultural Orientation Courses

Twice a year the Melanesian Institute offers courses for introduction to Melanesian cultures and religions for new expatriate missionaries and other church workers. There is a two-week course offered in January and the full four-week course in August each year. The deeper realities of human culture and religion are discussed, the significant differences between Melanesian Traditional Cultures and Industrial Developments are compared, personal accounts and sharing from the faculty – all help to gain better insight and appreciation for the people they work with. The participants are given ample opportunity in small group work to share their own experiences and ask questions to learn more about the present situation in Melanesia.

Other Courses and Seminars

Other courses dealing with Melanesian Cultural and Religious aspects are offered to various Melanesian groups, University students, Seminary students, Teacher’s in-services, Church leaders, National Volunteers, Government organizations and many others.

Research

In response to expressed needs of the Churches, the Melanesian Institute has undertaken several major research projects. These have been published under Point Series. The first of these publications was in 1972. Topics covered from then until now have been in the fields of theology, missiology, anthropology, sociology, law and order, economics, politics, ecology and arts. Apart from the Point Series, we also have two other publications namely the Catalyst and the Umben. The Catalyst was first published in 1971 and deals with a variety of issues. Issues published in the Catalyst are mainly to offer some points for further research and discussions. The Catalyst hopes to stir people to think and to be involved in discussing issues that are relevant to Melanesians. These materials deal with pastoral issues, community or leadership related issues etc. The other publication is the Umben which means, "net", is mainly for the grassroots and is written in Pidgin. Materials raised here also deal with current issues such as drug abuse, wife-bashing etc. At the end of each article, the author raises some questions and some possible answers. These questions are aimed at helping people to reflect more constructively on issues that confront them.

Should your like to know more about the Melanesian Institute, please write to:

The Melanesian Institute

P.O. Box 571) (675) 732 1777

Goroka, EHP 4412 (675) 732 1214

Papua New GuineaEmail: emmai@online.net.pg

Shell Money or Shilling

Sr. Margaret Tisch smsm

From the study of anthropology many years ago and from my experience of living amongst Melanesians for many years in Papua New Guinea and Solomon Islands, I am aware of the seriousness of swearing in this culture. I can accept this fully.

What I find difficult to understand is that for something as serious as swearing I would have thought that only Traditional Cultural values could be used as compensation, e.g. 100 pigs and 100 strings of shell money – these were very valuable. But to be asking for compensation such as money which has to be given by foreign counties, what cultural value is this? Will this bring respect, trust and PEACE?

I am just so very, very sad at the situation in Solomon Islands and I pray that this non-cultural compensation that is being asked for will be the answer for obtaining true peace to this CHRISTIAN NATION.

There are just so many good Solomon Islands people hurting deeply and suffering greatly because of this apparent hatred and incredible violence. May the Spirit of God reign in each one of us. We may not forget, but let us FORGIVE..

Sr. Margaret Tisch smsm is the Deputy Principal at Bishop Epalle and is much appreciated and loved by her students. She takes a keen interest in various curricular and co-curricular activities.

Love is not so much in the big things we do ….

A reflection

Fr. Michael Wallace Cruickshank sm

I have been a missionary for forty-two years. I returned home because I was determined not to stay on if I was to become a burden to my confreres with advancing age and possible sickness. I also wanted to get back to my roots, to become again part of the people I had left so many years before. I wanted to know them, learn from them and share with them something of myself. My Provincial asked me if I was willing to take on parish life. I was happy to agree. I was interested in helping people deepen their faith. I realize that we cannot speak of parish renewal or any renewal, unless people are faith-filled and a praying people. Sanctity consists in complete openness to God’s will. "I am the servant of the Lord…. Let this chalice of suffering pass, but not my will but yours be done".

What happens when one’s deepest desires are all of a sudden turned upside down? One’s faith preached so glibly before, now takes on a new meaning. It is OK for others, but I’m different. My illness, pancreatic cancer, was picked up when I went to see the local doctor for another problem. When my situation was revealed to me via a catscan and I was rushed to hospital, the specialist confirmed the original diagnosis and explained the operation.

When I heard what the illness was I thought of my own father who died from this same kind of cancer nearly forty years earlier. So I thought that this is the road the Lord has marked out for me. But I still had hope in the surgeon’s skill. I came down from the Solomons to be with my father. I was asked to break the news to him. His reply was, "I will offer my suffering for you and for your mission". He lingered on for three months and died on the patron feast of my mission station. I took this as a clear indication that God had accepted his generous offering. When the surgeon told me after the operation that the cancer had spread to the other vital organs and there was nothing he could do, I was convinced that indeed the Lord was asking me to take this same road and that my offering could be redemptive. I have had many blessings in my missionary vocation and I ascribe many of the graces granted to this holy person who united his sufferings with those of Christ. I was rather calm and at peace with this awareness shining though the disappointment.

I entered into a ward with three other men. The one next to me was dying surrounded by his family. Two others were in intense pain. I did not want to enter. I had hardly known what it was to be sick. I had never been fitter in years. As I entered this new world so reluctantly it gradually dawned on me that I was now part of suffering humanity. I began to take an interest in the people around me. What touched me most was the fact that they had people who loved them, who sat by their sides for hours touching them and comforting them in whatever way they could.

I also came to know the suffering Christ. I was particularly drawn to the loneliness of Jesus. "Could you not watch one hour with me?" I was alone. I looked for the comfort of friends, relatives or other human persons. I began to appreciate what pain is. I had previously complained about slight pain and rushed to alleviate it. But here was something of a different order. And I was brought before the cross of Christ.

Then I was made aware that I was not alone. Some of my school friends had organized a novena of prayer to end on the feast of the Immaculate Conception. I received many letters and cards, people all over assuring me that they were with me in prayer. I received assurances of prayer from people of Star of the Sea parish where I had worked for only eight months. They also organized a holy hour followed by the Eucharistic for my healing. I joined them as I prayed in the Marist chapel at Ashgrove. I felt myself closely united with these people who shared my faith and were in reality my brothers and sisters in Christ and this has made me appreciate the richness of our common faith. How I grieve that some lose it. I was humbled that I should be remembered. People remind me of small gestures which cost me little, but which meant so much to them. I see now more clearly how love is at the center of our Christian faith, and that love is not so much in the big things we do, but rather in those tiny manifestations of concern for others.

Fr. Michael Wallace Cruickshank sm worked in Solomon Islands in 1957-76 and again in 1997-99. He was called to rest at Sydney on 11^th March, 2000. May his reflections in the evening of his life inspire us to live our lives.

The Lord is my rescue

A reminder that I am a child of God

Maria Patricia (Trish) Samodallu

I was born and raised by my parents of Maeana Village, Buma Parish, West Kwaio. At the age of 12 years when I left Buma. That turned out to be the beginning of a hardship to my life. Being raised by another family together with other children of different religions is not easy. Attending school with other students from different backgrounds and religions is even more difficult, as they will always pick on you, your religion and who you are for unnecessary reasons.

I turned to God and begged him to rescue me from my hardships. This has been my motto ever since. To this day, I continue to pray for what God wants me to be - to forgive the wrongs I have done, especially against his commandments and to help me keep firm to my motto always. I also ask him for grace and strength to help me support my sisters, brothers and their families as well as some of my unfortunate relatives and friends that need my moral and financial support.

Life for me has had it’s ups and downs and throughout all these I have worked my way up – educated myself and started on new initiatives that have brought out the best in me. I have a passion for studying, working, living overseas and flying and through it all, I believe that God has plans for me. But this discovery can only come through a deep faith and a constant contact with God through prayer. I believe that God is always listening and that he reveals his plan and releases his gift for each one of us at the right time. Looking back over my past life, I realize that I achieved what I was praying for and the achievement assisted me in supporting others who needed my help. There were hard times, but the Lord was always there for me.

The last time I received my Holy Communion was at the age of 13, though I attended church years later, I never went to confession as I had forgotten all the prayers. In 1997, I had dreams about a sickness that would affect me. And it happened in February, 1999, exactly as I had dreamt. This was the amazing turning point in my life. This was God’s way of speaking to me. I went through all the possible medical tests and examinations both locally and overseas and all the tests were negative. There was nothing wrong with me. I was totally cured. In February 2000, I went back to Buma to visit my relatives only to find out that my aunts and uncle had prayed for me, that I might consent to seek the assistance of Fr. Fred Osifelo. The day I went to see Fr. Osifelo, that was the day I was healed. I made my ‘First Confession’ and received my ‘First Holy Communion’. I was now free. My body, heart and soul were free. I have lived in darkness for so long. Since my Lord’s rescue, I am joyful and willing to assist others who are need help and assistance in opening themselves to being rescued by the Lord.

I will continue to pray for those who need peace in their heart and most of all that PEACE may be restored in our Solomon Islands.

Trish is a very successful, enterprising, cheerful and dynamic lady, who runs her own beauty parlor at Kings Solomon Hotel, gives courses on Personal Grooming and Commitment to Life and Duty and is always there to brighten up your day and your life with her infectious smile. She has shared her testimony with us. May her life help us as we struggle through our moments of trial and tension, pain and guilt that is part of our life. If any of you feel like sharing your testimony just write to: The Editor, Voice Katolika, P.O. Box 647, Honiara.

Pearl of the Pacific

Sukrutha Rozario

Sukrutha Rozario is based in Hong Kong and flies Cathay Pacific as a stewardess. She visited Solomon Islands in the middle of last year and is eager to return to share her time and talent with us. She writes about her experiences here in Solomon Islands.

Even to this day each time I slip into my moccasins fond and vivid memoirs rush to my grey cells and bring about a smile to my face as I am reminded of a short but exhilarating trip to the Pearl of the Pacific - Solomon Islands. It has recently made world news as it strives to make peace between its warring factions. If you have never been to Solomon Islands, frankly speaking, I was unaware of its very existence, despite being a flight attendant myself, until I heard of it from Fr. Ambrose, opting to work as a missionary there. Getting there needs to be carefully planned as connections to the country do not leave you with many options.

The people are a calm interesting lot. You could mistake them to be colored Africans, but take a closer look and there is indeed an immense difference. Pidgin English, to you may sound like 'broken English' is the spoken language but mind you has its own share of grammar. The English presence had to be left behind with the Queens English being spoken and understood.

As I reminisce this five day trip which was barely time enough for me to capture the capital city, Honiara, I also remembered distinctly the adopted Salesian village Tetere on the East side of Guadalcanal where I was privileged to witness the Baptisms of 6 children and Mass concelebrated by Fr. Luciano Capelli, former Provincial of Manila Province, and Fr. Ambrose Pereira, who formally belonged to the Mumbai province and was Director of DBYS, Matunga, not forgetting Bro Tanaka, from Japan who has a way of dealing with rebels from whom we had to get clearance.

An evening with the Youth of Panatina truly surprised me. Their participation and involvement in a small but meaningful Mass despite being the shy, soft spoken kind, amazed me. Their melodious high pitched voices put mine in the shade. The blessing of the roof was another occasion to have been able to meet and know the Who’s Who in the Solomon Islands Catholic Church. The Archbishop, Adrian Smith, Msgr. Bernard O’Donnell, Fr. Cor Hooyamayers… name them and they were there.

A detour from religious activity so to say got me to an ideal picnic location – the Catholic parish at Visale – the west side of Guadalcanal. The Daughters of Mary Immaculate sisters have a novitiate and Fr. Siebo Leppen, sm, took care to ensure that our ravenous appetite for food was catered to. If I said any spot in this country is ideal for meditation – Visale felt even stronger His Divine presence. Even at 35,000 ft high, I have never felt so close to Him and marveled at His work of creation.

En route to Visale we stopped at Aruligo, a vast plot of land that the Archbishop is keen that the Salesians take up and establish their presence and ministry there. Personally knowing the Salesians involvement with Youth, I categorized it as a "bad idea" especially after an earlier visit to the prison which is not otherwise open to public for obvious reasons. Heard of an 'eaglet' for a pet, Fr. Cappelli's passion for pets sent him bird hunting in Aruligo, literally speaking and left me dumbfounded to find him return home with one.

A first hand experience of the road block set up by the rebels added a glint of adventure to my trip and a fragment of the ethnic tensions that today has blown out of proportion and control.

A country where 98 % of the population are Christians only 19% are Roman Catholic. The Salesian presence being 5 years old is under the guardianship of the Japan province. Our prayers are one way to support the missionaries who are barely surviving the political coup. On the political front pressure on the Australian Government and the U.N. to ensure full involvement in restoration of peace to this land. So ironical, that land, blissfully at peace with mother nature, the disharmony amongst the people of the land threatens its very existence.

On a lighter note, on my return trip, being airline staff and always being subjected to load because of cheap tickets, I experienced the first hand efficiency and hospitality of the country's only airline Solomon Islands. To experience it yourself don't wait for a missionary call, though volunteers will warmly be received, but even the slightest inclination for water sports, or just sheer love for nature should be good enough for you to begin packing and start your journey east bound to the Pearl of the Pacific.......Solomon Islands!!

World Wide Marriage Encounter Vision

John and Maria Maefaididia

"Love one another as I have loved you"

Mission:

World Wide Marriage Encounter’s mission of renewal in the church and change in the world. It assists couples, priests and religious to live fully intimate and responsible relationships by providing them with a Catholic experience and ongoing community support for such a life style.

History of Marriage Encounter in the Solomon Islands

Marriage Encounter was brought to the Solomon Islands in 1995 by 3 Fijian couples and a priest. From 1998, Marriage Encounter Solomons took over the leadership in running Marriage Encounter work. From 1995, until today, there are approximately 600 couples, 5 priests and 15 sisters who have attended our weekend courses. One team priest and 8 team couples in the Archdiocese of Honiara and one team priest and 7 couples in the Diocese of Auki are responsible for organizing weekend courses and presenting the talks and animating the discussions at the weekends.

A testimony

"Since our first weekend of Marriage Encounter, many areas of our life as a couple – our finance, our future, our children’s future, in-laws, our own death, our prayer life, our sexuality and many more, are much more frank, deeper and wider. This is because of the deep communication we have with each other. Consequently our trust and love for each other has also grown. The results have benefited our entire family. We are able to sit together with our children as they share their problems of growing up with us. We also discuss and plan our future together. Even our prayer life has grown stronger. We are able to maintain our loving relationship by daily sharing our feelings of hurt, disappointment, anger and joy with each other and making the decision to love each other daily. It is in this that we find peace, joy and unity and strive to live God’s plan for us as we live an intimate and responsible love relationship with each other. This makes our church more attractive".

Tribute to John Bosco

Sr. Margaret Tisch smsm

John Bosco was a young man who wanted to help others and spread the Good News of Jesus.

He did his training with Sr. Therese Chaloux smsm at Tangarare before being appointed as a Pastoral worker at Holy Cross. He was often an altar server and read the Word of God at Mass. He trained our present Altar Boys and they are a credit to him. This year he was studying at Nazareth Apostolic Centre at Tenaru, but because of the danger St. Joseph’s, Holy Name of Mary Seminary and Nazareth Apostolic Centre had to send their students away.

I was very fond of John who was so kind and generous. Nothing was ever a trouble for him. He was also good at helping to keep Holy Cross clean. It seems his mother told him to be careful as the militants were after him. John replied, "Mum if they are after me, what is the use of hiding!" So on Sunday 25^th June the militants came for John. They very brutally bashed him and then it seems took him up a hill and decapitated him. All cultures respect their dead but that is not happening with those who are being murdered here. This is so very sad and this sort of behavior is undermining the culture of Solomon Islands as a CHRISTIAN NATION.

Let us continue to pray that this MADNESS will cease. May John Bosco’s soul rest in peace.

A glimmer of light

Ordination to Diaconate

Amidst the tense situation of Solomon Island – there is a glimmer of light. The 8.30am Eucharist at Holy Cross Cathedral, normally filled with people had just about 500 in the congregation. The choir loft was filled with DMI sisters and the altar was wired to broadcast the Eucharist to the nation. Last minute touches were added as Daniel Lima and Julian Geni prepared themselves for their ordination. Archbishop Adrian Smith, Archbishop of Honiara, ordained them deacons at the Concelebrated Eucharist. The two deacons in their mid thirties are committed to serve the church through their promises of poverty, chastity and obedience. The present situation has prevented family members being present, but they were united with them through the bond of prayer and through the SIBC network via radio. The Archbishop praised them for responding to God’s call to give up a family and love the wider people of God, to be content with just basic needs being met and to work for God’s kingdom with no political agenda. He challenged them to work for justice and peace especially in these troubled times. He stated that they can only do so by being charged with a strong and powerful prayer life. Julian Geni hails from Laloato village, and Daniel Lima comes from Malogeti. Both are parishioners of Avuavu parish have completed their seminary training at Bomana Seminary in PNG.

In recalling past years, a smiling Julian stated that he was taught to pray by his own family and he looks forward to serving the wider community through his priesthood. He is grateful for his training that has made him a more mature and confident person. The road he has chosen is not easy and he relies on the Lord to assist him through the difficulties he will encounter.

Daniel accepts that fact that the young Catholic Church needs priests to lead the people of God. Over the years of his seminary training he has interacted with many people and they in turn have supported and encouraged him. He strongly believes that his call is a call to service, not one of authority and power. CONGRATULATIONS AND GOD BE WITH YOU!

News Bits

Vatican

Pope John Paul II will be acknowledging thousands of Christians who died for their faith in the 20^th century. The list consisting of over 10,000 names also includes names of Orthodox, Anglicans and Protestants submitted by their churches. The Pope’s commemoration will include the publication of a document - A continent-by-continent description of the situations which led to their martyrdom. "The Church in every corner of the earth must remain anchored to the testimony of the martyrs", he stated as he officially proclaimed the Holy Year 2000.

New Delhi

Alan Basil de Lastic, Archbishop of Delhi, died in a car accident in Poland on 24^th June, 2000. The late Archbishop of New Delhi and President of the Indian Catholic Bishops Conference, will be remembered for his 'media savvy' leadership of the Indian Catholic Church. He was 71, and was always in the forefront protesting recent attacks against Christians in various parts of the country. He died of shock as his car swerved to save a cyclist, in the process it also killed the Archbishop.

WACC visit

Rev. Ming-Ya Tu’uholoaki, Secretary, World Association for Christian Communication, Pacific region visited the Solomon Islands. Her purpose was to look into possibilities of networking among the different churches.

Visitation of Salesian Provincial

Rev. Fr. Stefano Fujikawa sdb, Provincial of the Province of Japan, spent three days in Solomon Islands. During his stay he visited Christ the King parish, Tetere, and expressed words of gratitude and praise for the work of Fr. Pedro Balcazar and the Salesians in Tetere. He also visited the other Salesian works – Catholic Communications and the work at the central prison.

VOICE KATOLIKA revived

After a gap of over 5 years, Voice Katolika was revived on 10^th May, 2000. A very delighted and jubilant Archbishop Adrian Smith hoped that the newsletter would be a link between Catholics all over the Solomon Islands with news, articles and reflections.

Second Solomon Islander professes – Sr. Margaret Tisch smsm

Sr. Valeria Auolo smsm, after her novitiate in New Zealand spent 18 months as an untrained teacher at Bishop Epalle where she showed great skills as a teacher with excellent discipline. Then she went to Fiji for a three year teachers training course which was followed by one year teaching in Junior Secondary in Kiribati. In the company of other sisters she prepared for her final vows on 25^th April, 2000. Sr. Noreen Dunne, smsm accepted her final profession at Rufoki Village in Malaita, in the presence of Bishop Loft, priests, DMI and SMSM sisters. She has now left to work in Jamaica as a teacher.  She is the second Solomon Islander to be finally professed as an SMSM sister, the first being Sr. Cecilia Legani from Savo who is working in Colombia in South America.

Regional Leadership Youth Workshop – Albert Kinantee and Elise Katau

46 participants attended the regional youth workshop held from 4^th to 7^th May, 2000, at Naparoro, Makohigo region, Wainoni parish. Participants also included Catechists and leaders of the Mothers Union. The organizers were Noel Wêhi, Mathias Waisi, Eddie Hui, Tina Katawe and Emi Kamarupa. Albert K. Nantee animated the programme. A large group attended the concluding Eucharist celebrated by Fr. John Tahieu, the parish priest. He urged the other regions to organize similar leadership programmes. Noel Haga, Noxy Nêhi, Benedict Tahi, Moses Hiza, Eliza Manu, Angnes Katape and Severino Wêhi spoke in praise of the programme. A delightful feast of pigs, chickens and other eats followed. A tearful farewell bore witness to the well conducted programme. The next workshop is to be held at Nagau village in the month of November, 2000.

80^th Birthday of Pope John Paul II

The birthday of the Holy Father was celebrated by a simple fellowship meal arranged by Archbishop Smith, at Holy Cross on 18^th May, 2000. The Holy Father has been a symbol of Peace and Forgiveness for the entire world, in this the bloodiest century of all time. It was also the jubilee celebration for Seminarians. Among others present on the occasion was Fr. John Espagne sm, who has been confined to his home due to illness.

Tangarare Easter Celebrations – Alphonse Syky

Crowds came from Grove, Kosuba, Weragavai, QoiQoi to join in the Easter Celebrations at Tangarare. The Adoration after the Lords’ Supper concluded at 3 in the morning with each group imploring the Lord for Peace. The Pastoral students dramatized the Stations of the Cross which concluded with meditations by the Pastoral center students, Tangarare Local Church and Veragavai Community. A well prepared Easter Vigil commenced at 7.30pm – imploring the Lord of Light to be master of our darkened lives.

Ecumenical Service – Msgr. Bernard O’Donnell

The Couples for Christ conducted an Ecumenical Fellowship Programme for Officers of the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force and their families on 7^th May, 2000 at the Rove Police Headquarters. Superintendent Lapo welcomed the gathering and Msgr. Bernard O’Donnell invited all to bring peace within themselves. This Peace would then in turn spread to ones family and the community. Chief Justice, Sir John Muria praised the Police and Prison Force for their excellent work despite the very trying conditions. Testimonies of Mr. Steve Aumanu and Mr. Namo bore witness to the presence of the Spirit alive and active. Leading the singing were the Rove Youth, Youth for Christ and Rove Women’s Fellowship. Peace needs to be renewed at every level and in every part of the country.

God’s Word challenges leaders – Ben Duva

Koela Village, Savo Island was privileged to have Fr. Simon Suvenava op, together with Moses Poqeava from Choisuel lead the Leaders and Catechists of Savo in a 4 day Leadership Course. The course commenced on 17^th May and concluded on 21^st May. It challenged every participant to bear witness to God’s Word in their local Church. It was an interesting mix of instructions, prayer sessions, action songs, bible sharing and quizzes. Hon. Alan Kimakesa in his concluding speech after the Sunday Eucharist stressed the need to do what the Lord wants us to do.

Jubilee Celebrations – Ambrose J Raraifiu

St. John’s Catholic Church, Dala parish celebrated a dual event – Confirmation of 155 candidates and the Golden Jubilee of the Parish. The Concelebrated Eucharist was led by Bishop Gerry Loft sm, together with Frs. Joachim Basini, Augustine Tarappel, John Adai, Fred Osifelo and James Angisia. To join in the celebrations were DMI Srs. Concilia, Nellie and Elizabeth and Br. Severino Lausao FMS all parishioners of the parish. The celebrations included Gospel singing, a Video Show, Volley ball games and enactments of the First Arrival of the pioneers. The Jubilee song sung by the Falake Choir opened the Eucharist. Bishop Loft encouraged the newly confirmed candidates to be open to the Gifts of the Spirit and use them everyday. Jubilee Appreciation Gifts were presented at the concluding ceremony to prominent personnel, visiting dignitaries and guests.

Feast of Mary Help of Christians – Br. Tanaka Youkihro sdb

The Salesians of Don Bosco celebrated the Feast of Mary Help of Christians on May 24^th, with the blessing of the Rove Vocational Training Centre, in the Rove Prison Complex, the Catholic Communications Religious Articles and Bookstore and the Don Bosco Youth Centre and at West Kola Ridge. Fr. Luciano Capelli, Rector of Don Bosco, stressed that we are here to give abandoned youth the key to their life, by providing them with opportunities to learn and grow. Mr. Atu Balekana is the one In-charge of co-coordinating the training programme.

Social Communications Day

The 34^th World Communications Day, the Jubilee of Journalists and People in Communication was celebrated on 4^th June, 2000 right around the globe. It had as its theme: Proclaiming Christ in the Media at the Dawn of the new Millennium.

Self-Development Seminar

260 young men and women attended a Self-Development Seminar, held at Buma. Fr. John Adai, Sr. Lucy, Lawrence and Nazaniel also led the participants reflect on issues of Integration and Relationships with God and each other. A similar seminar was held at Kwarieka, which was attended by 280 participants including those of Su’u National Secondary School. The Seminars involved the participants and were much appreciated by all.

Catholic Mothers Workshop – Martha Horiwapu

Catholic Mothers celebrated a four day workshop at Wararai village, Nariaoa, in zone 5 of Tarapaina parish, in the month of May. The workshop was animated by Fr. Pius and William Haomae and highlighted the role of a Catholic Mother today. Elections resulted in Eremina as president, Christiana as secretary and Magdalane and Vitaline as councillors. Earlier Mothers Day was celebrated at Kukum parish. Programmes and prayers to thank our mothers for bringing up their children with human and Christian values were celebrated. A special celebration was organized by the SICA women’s occasion. The talks were centered around women, the fathers saw to the catering and the set-up while the youth entertained the entire gathering.

Laity in the Church today

50 participants attended a regional meeting held on 14^th May, 2000, for the Northern Region held at Kwalakwala parish. It highlighted the role of lay people in the Church today. Among the participants were Frs. Joseph McKoy, James and Lawrence.

Good Shepherd Feast – Joe Vidiki

800 parishioners from 7 local churches attended the feast of the Good Shepherd held at Makile local church on 14^th May, 2000. The programme included the Eucharist celebrated by Fr. Alvin the parish priest and Frs. Marcelo and Jack from Holy Name Seminary. The gathering concluded with an entertainment.

Feast of the Visitation – Sr. Evangelina Koudi DMI

The Daughters of Mary Immaculate celebrated the feast of the Visitation on 31^st May, 2000 at Rosary Convent. Archbishop Adrian Smith celebrated the Eucharist and encouraged them to bear witness to Mary’s life in action and one of the ways would be to visit and interact with the militants. They have commenced their plan of action and hope to continue.

Archbishop calls for People’s Power – Fr. Luciano Capelli sdb

Archbishop Adrian Smith member of SICA, in his homily at Holy Cross Cathedral, broadcast to the nation, praised the people present for the manifestation of their faith in God. He stressed unity and appealed to all to uphold it. "There is but a small minority who are destroying the peace and unity of this diverse country", he said. He emphasized that, dialogue with arms was not possible and stressed that there can be no proper decision made under fear and duress. Many eyes were moist with tears as they sang the National Anthem – God bless our Solomon Islands - at the end of the prayer of the faithful during the Eucharistic Celebration of 11^th June, 2000.

Special Issue of Voice Katolika

The Archbishop congratulated Fr. Ambrose Pereira, SDB for the timely publishing of the second "Special Issue" of Voice Katolika, reporting on the recent events as they objectively happened and the various reactions they provoked through out the nation and international community.

 

Bishop of Auki

Bishop Gerry Loft, sm, Bishop of Auki together with his clergy acknowledge the seriousness of the issues involved and courageously condemn the perpetrators of the coup. As Christians we need to make the needed options. While he expresses his sentiments of oneness with each in the loss, he appeals to them not to retaliate and demand a compensation that is far beyond individual means and the state. Bishop Gerard Loft confirmed several candidates and blessed the cross and parishioners at Buma on Pentecost Sunday. Zone 7 organized the event.

DMI Sisters praised

On 10^th June, 2000, 18 DMI sisters together with 6 women, exchanged food and other household items just outside the MEF check point. This action has been praised by all, as the women and children have been deprived of basic food items and medical supplies for several days.

Prayer Meeting held

An Ecumenical prayer meeting was held on Sunday 18^th June, 2000 at Holy Cross Cathedral at 2.00pm. This meeting brought together about 70 people including several clergy and religious to join and pray for unity and peace. The theme of the service was, ‘The Power of healing: the way to PEACE’. The programme was led by the Couples for Christ Family Ministry.

DMI Sisters work together with Women – Sr. Jennifer Vatukumbona DMI

The DMI sisters together with women have been visiting both the east and west of Honiara, exchanged food and other household items with the MEF and IFM militants and praying with them. Women wearing scarves of yellow, blue and green - the colours of the national flag - approached the two groups of warring islanders with a simple message: Stop fighting and talk peace. "We think as mothers, they are our sons. We brought them here in our wombs and we love them and we want them to lay down their guns," said Margaret Aihunu, a teacher who joined the women at a rally at the YWCA in Honiara.

Don Bosco acquires site - Fr. Luciano Capelli sdb

Don Bosco has acquired a site near the Henderson Airport for a Technical Training center to help abandoned Solomon Islands youth become good Christians and honest citizens. The land agreement was struck on May 24, the feast day of Mary Help of Christians with Mr. John Lee, the owner of the property.

Jubilee Cross – Joe Vidiki

The Jubilee Cross, which was blessed by Archbishop Adrian Smith at the opening of the Jubilee Year has been making its rounds of the Archdiocese. It has traveled from Visale to Tangarare, Avu Avu, Makina and Ruavatu. In June it was at Christ the King Parish Tetere and made its rounds of the villages of Talaura, Komporo, Sali and Swagi. People prayed for long hours, imploring the Lord who suffered and died for us for a respite from the present ethnic crisis. The cross has moved from Makile – the Eastern end of the Good Shepherd Parish NAC Tenaru. It was heartening to see communities, families and individuals pray before the Jubilee Cross. Special prayers for Peace were said every evening during the Eucharistic celebration. It awaits the possibility of moving over to Tulagi and Makira.

Jubilee Celebrations – Sr. Therese Chaloux smsm

The 46 students from Tangarare Pastoral Centre, half of its usual number due to the current situation, will return to the center on 29^th June, 2000, to continue their studies. During the month of June they have been visiting the villages armed with copies of the Latin Mass and the music on a cassette tape. This is in preparation for the 100 years of Christianity. Sr. Therese Chaloux smsm, Director of the centre looks forward to welcome them on their return.

Awards received – Joe Vidiki

On 16^th June, 2000, Fr. Michael Aike received the Queen’s birthday award at Rohinair parish, while Fr. Donasiano Hiteé received an award at Tarapaina parish. Both were awarded on their long service in the church. Congratulations. You are indeed an example of hardwork and dedication to all of us.

 

Feast of Sts. Peter and Paul – Timothy Alaha & Hilda Vaurou

Rokera Parish commenced the celebration with the arrival and unveiling of the Jubilee Cross on 27^th June, 2000. The Eucharistic Celebration was celebrated by Fr. John Tapa. The entertainment and feast continued till the early hours of the morning. 28^th June was a day of Recollection. Peter Takina and Ernest Waria coordinated Zone 2 and prepared a heartwarming and touching liturgical drama. The theme of the Eucharist on 29^th June was Thanksgiving. The panpipe procession organized by zone 1 set the mood for the Eucharist. The offertory custom dance included 3 pigs and shell money. The last day of the liturgy, 30^th June, was organized by zone 3. Little children, youth as well as the old had a chance to fully participate in the Eucharist celebrated by Fr. Moses Ouau. Margaret Paoó took great pains to prepare the little children for the custom dance. The entire celebration was organized and coordinated by Morris Hororea and Emmanuel Aopuru.

The 12 families from Moe island celebrated the feast of their patron with the Sunday Liturgy led by Benjamin Novale the catechist and a sermon by Baddley Vanrou. The feasting and dancing at the celebrations concluded with Rosary in the evening.

Feast of the Immaculate Heart of Mary – Thomas Taino

Over 100 Catholic mothers came together from Mwakonukonu, Tawaroga, Wanahata, Mami, Manigagosi, Bagarai and Na’ana at the Manivovo center on 1^st July, 2000. They extolled the virtues of Mary and discussed ways to imitate her. Discussions also revolved around what prevents mothers from actively carrying out their responsibilities successfully in their families, villages and parish. The entire programme was coordinated by Anna Rone together with the Catechists. Celetina Makana has been elected as the new Parish President.

Feast of the Sacred Heart of Jesus – Sharon Buto

Loun , Russell Islands celebrated the Feast of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, their patron saint on 2^nd June, 2000. The theme "Love is Commitment" in this jubilee year was amply brought out by Fr. Ambrose Pereira in his homily at the Eucharistic Celebration. Loun was also joined by the other churches of Alokan, Moe and Yandina. The Eucharist also witnessed the baptism of 2 children and commitment of 37 children who received their First Holy Communion. This joyful celebration brought together over 800 people from the various islands. A festive meal together with singing, dancing and various items brought the festivities to a close. We trust and pray that this celebration of love and commitment to Christ and to each other will bless us and keep us always united in his love.

Pot-tu-Pot – Peter Togovi

The Anglican community of Sau island and the Catholic community of Alokan raised SBD $ 900 in a Pot tu pot day on 2^nd April, 2000. This amount is to be used for the building up of the Anglican community. A similar celebration is to be held on 16^th July to help the Catholic Community build up their church.

 

Ordination to Diaconate – Fr. Ambrose Pereira sdb

Daniel Lima and Julian Geni were ordained deacons by Archbishop Adrian Smith, Archbishop of Honiara, this morning at a Concelebrated Eucharist at Holy Cross Cathedral. He congratulated the deacons and challenged them to work for justice and peace in these troubled times, stating that they can only do so by being charged with a strong and powerful prayer life.

Youth Rally

Russell Islands Catholic Youth Rally is to be held from 25^th to 27^th August, 2000. Its theme is: "The Glory of God is a person fully alive". The programme is to be coordinated by Robert from Loun, Russell Islands.

Guadalcanal – a journey through time

Sam Alasia

This article has been written by Sam Alasia in March, 2000. I had promised to continue it in the next issue of Voice Katolika and so here it is. - Editor

 

Now after 22 years of independence where do we go from here? We are scattered islands, fragmented geographically and culturally and we have talked about Unity without appreciating our diversity. A closer look at Guadalcanal reveals that it is divided unfairly into two – rich alluvial plains and the weather-coast with its rugged mountains and steep cliffs, prone to cyclones, rough seas and earthquakes. During the two disasters of 1977 and 1986 which struck Guadalcanal the Nation felt one with the people of Guadalcanal and many displayed acts of brotherliness including several Malaitans.

With the capital Honiara, here on Guadalcanal many have benefited by way of health, education and economic spin offs. The Weather Coast however have not been able to enjoy these benefits. This disparity has resulted in social ethnic tension. Such tensions have existed in varying degrees in our own tribes and different regions over several centuries. Cold-blooded killings and lawlessness was the rule. People lived in fear and life was not easy. It was not until Christianity and the colonial government arrived that law and order was established and peace achieved. However the current social unrest is a new phenomenon in character, scope and degree. It is also new because not only those on Guadalcanal and Malaita are suffering, but the entire country is affected one way or the other. What we all want now is an end to the tension that we may rightly claim ourselves again as a Christian country – the peaceful Hapi Isles.

In the past few months we have seen citizens killing each other at a rate never seen before. Many members of the militant groups are Catholics. My feeling as being a Catholic was put to the test on several occasions as I occasionally heard people mention that the Catholic Church is supporting those involved in the ethnic tension. I was pleased when Archbishop Adrian Smith, Archbishop of Honiara, stated that the Catholic Church condemns all violence. I have been pondering over a few possibilities to help our Catholic faithful, both of Honiara as well as those of Auki, to come together to break this barrier of enmity that still exists in some quarters. Despite the fact that Catholicism is over a hundred years old we need to reach out as the catholic missionaries did in Avuavu and Marau in the last century. Outreach and exchange visits of youth and women could be a good way to start. While the government draws up peace plans and proposals, the church needs to write it in the hearts of all men and women.

I would also suggest that the leaders of Guadalcanal and Malaita, sit down and talk more frankly and address the problems which arise within their own localities or regions. They should demand that the militants lay down their arms and surrender themselves for the law to take its course and justice be done. Respect for the law and those who administer justice is of paramount importance at this point of time, that confidence in the law and order system be restored. Fr. Geve had planned to organize workshops on leadership, spiritual growth and the effects of the tension.

This brief article is about Guadalcanal and its important place in Solomon Islands and that is the reason why the tension must end. We are all doing something in our own individual ways to see a quick end to this tension. I do hope that through Tina Mauri, Guadalcanal, of wounds and scars, the wounds of pain and suffering will be healed and forgiven, ad the scars of hatred and enmity understood and forgotten. May God bless Solomone and Solomon Islands.

10 Little Christians

Author Unknown

10 Little Christians standing in line, 1 disliked the preacher, then there were 9

9 little Christians stayed up very late, 1 overslept on Sunday, then there were 8

8 little Christians climbing up to Heaven, 1 took the low road home and then there were 7

7 little Christians chirping like chicks, 1 disliked music, then there were 6

6 little Christians seemed very much alive, but one lost his interest then there were 5

5 little Christians pulling for Heaven's Shore, 1 stopped to rest, then there were 4

4 little Christians each busy as a bee, 1 got his feelings hurt, then there were 3

3 little Christians knew not what to do, 1 joined the sporty crowd, then there were 2

2 little Christians, our rhyme is nearly done, differed with each other,

then there was 1.

1 little Christian can't do much 'tis true, brought his friend to Bible study-then there were 2.

2 earnest Christians, each won one more, that doubled the number, then there were 4.

4 sincere Christians worked early and late, each won another then there were 8.

8 splendid Christians if they doubled as before, In just so many Sundays, we'd have 1,024 !!!

 

In this little jingle, there is a lesson true, You belong either to the building or to the wrecking crew!

Share your experience and faith with everyone else. Get your pen and paper together and send in your News items, Testimonies, Articles, Reflections, Letters to the editor, Questions on faith, moral and church issues, etc. And don’t forget to include photographs.

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Voice Katolika is produced by Catholic Communications Solomons, P.O. Box 647, Honiara, Solomon Islands

for the Catholic Church of Solomon Islands - Archdiocese of Honiara, Diocese of Auki and Diocese of Gizo