VOICE KATOLIKA

March 2001

In this issue:

Ashes to Easter,

Our Lenten Challenge

Letters to the Editor,

The Christian in the Peace

Process; Fasting during Lent ;

We look to you our Priests;

Good Governance Vs

Business as Usual;

Those amazing beings Women;

Why do they come?

Voices on Women ;

Celebrating Women ;

God created Women;

Respect and Responsibility;

We look to you our Priests ;

For the Salvation of Souls;

‘Womb to Tomb’ apostolate; Persons are Gifts;

Director Praises Don Bosco; Personalities;

News Bits;

Rabbi, Where do you live ;

Beauty Tips.

Ashes to Easter

The Calendar of the Church is a great gift in our lives. It is like a wise mother. She takes time, regularly, to teach her children. As we grow through the various stages of life our wise mother shares with us her wisdom. During the 40 Days of Lent, we are asked to focus on prayer in our lives, penance, and almsgiving.

Prayer is about keeping alive our relationship with God. We enrich that relationship by listening to God in our hearts. The Word of God, which we read and hear during Lent speaks clearly of conversion. God calls us back to a lively encounter with him. We are asked to take up the challenge of God’s Plan for us. Because of the constant noise of the world around us, we tend to grow dull in our prayers. Lent asks for a renewed effort to give God a greater share of our attention.

By our human nature, we tend to slip back into selfish habits. We have around us those who love sport. The discipline they have and their faithfulness to their training sessions are an example for us. Walking in the way of Jesus demands obedience and discipline. Penance is another name for what we can call the discipline of the followers of Jesus. Fasting, saying ‘No’ to those things which seem to dominate our lives, and taking up again those good practices which identify us with Jesus, is what the Season of Lent calls us to do.

To walk with Jesus is to follow the road of LOVE. The love Jesus calls us to is two fold. We are to love God with all our being and to love our neighbour as ourselves. During Lent, we walk the road of love by helping to address the needs of those who have less than we have. This almsgiving is not only about giving the spare coins we find in our pocket. We are to give of our very selves, our time, and concern. We are to be eyes for the blind and ears for the deaf. As Christians, we are also to work for justice, to care for the homeless and share our clothes with those who have none.

In the time of Noah, God, after forty days and nights of rain, gave his sons and daughters a new start. Moses spent forty days and nights pleading on behalf of his people on Mount Sinai. For forty years with Moses as their leader, God brought his people out of slavery to freedom. Jonah gave Nineveh forty days to repent, the people responded and were saved. For forty days and nights, Jesus fasted in the desert in preparation for his years of teaching and training his followers. These were all powerful moments of GRACE in which God showed his special love for his people.

The forty days of Lent 2001 are once again a moment of GRACE God is offering us. It is a special time set aside for us so we may be better prepared to celebrate Easter, our hope and promise of Eternal Life in God the Father, the Son and Holy Spirit, the Triune God whose life is LOVE.

We are in the season of Lent, an occasion for each of us to re-examine our lives and accept the invitation to conversion. Perhaps this little story in our present context will help….

"As I was taking a walk along the sea shore, I saw an angel walking briskly with fire in one hand and a bucket of water in the other. I asked him, "Where are you going and why the fire and water?" The angel with a look of despair replied, "We are fed up with people wanting to live a good life for the love of rewards in heaven and the fear of punishment in hell. So we have decided to burn up the manions in heaven and put out the fire in hell. Then we will know how many truly love God and live the Gospel life."

Our beloved country Solomon Islands, struggles to rebuild itself. Perhaps we are living in the hope of heaven to come – not knowing that our heaven is here on earth. Perhaps our prayer and our action do not correspond. Perhaps we do not speak out as responsible Christians calling persons to truth and justice. Perhaps we are not respectful of our sisters and brothers. Our lives – yours and mine - as Christians must confront persons and challenge them to a life of honesty and genuine love. Thus we will be building up our country. This I believe is our heaven. This I believe is our Lenten challenge !

 

Dear Fr. Ambrose,

I just want to say that VOICE KATOLIKA is excellent. I enjoy reading it so much. I correspond with some of the priests in the Solomon Islands, now with the great age of computers, E-Mail. Over the years some of these wonderful men have visited at our home on their way to someplace else. What a blessing it is to meet them and share a little in their life. God has gifted my family so greatly and these friendships that have come about are one of his greatest gift to us. Of course there are some priests that I correspond with who I haven't met, and I am excited to meet them. Reading about their work and the people in Solomon Islands is indeed a joy.

Dennis and myself live in the state of New Jersey. While Dennis is a banker and works in New York City, I am coordinator of Religious Education at St. Veronica's Parish. We have 2,227 children in Kindergarten to grades 8. At the end of March we have 300 children receiving the Sacrament of Confirmation. In April & May 328 of our Children will receive their First Holy Communion. Dennis and myself are involved with the RCIA. We work with the teens as also with those yet to be baptized. I love every second of my work.  Again thank you for sending the VOICE. I truly enjoy every page.

God's Blessings, - Brenda Heffernan, USA.

Dear Fr. Ambrose,

I would like to extend my deepest gratitude for your ministry through the Voice Katolika. The articles are especially informative and reflects what is happening in our country today. I appreciate above all the article entitled, "An attribute to John Bosco". We are loosing our Melanesian culture. This in turn is contributing to inhuman and violent behavior. It is indeed a challenge for us to help in the development of our youth - in schools as well as in society. Self-discipline and Self-control need to be taught and practised by all. Parents and families should strive to inculcate these in their children. Perhaps, biblical texts could be introduced. I thank God for His divine guidance and for making your ministry effective and meaningful in my life. Keep up the good work. - Anthony Giro, West Bauro, Makira Ulawa Province.

Dear Voice Katolika,

I am happy to see you again after you disappeared for some years. I read every issue I can lay my hands on and shall support you with my prayers and articles. Voice Katolika is informative and encourages us to live good catholic lives. Our youth have a lot in it as well. I appreciate the sharing of the seminarians in the May 2000 issue as well as your many News Bits. May God bless you and your work. - Christopher T. Kiri, Dairana Village, Auki, Malaita Province

Christians! You are called to have the right balance in your lives. The need for you to witness is now. People are clambering for power and money. Are we any happier off if we spend all our time worrying about this world and it’s things, asks Jeremiah (17:5-8). The hearts of these people turn from the Lord – they are not at peace.

Christ tells us that the ones who are happy are those who seek and live out the truth. Our best contribution to peace is to be content with what we have at the moment and be working towards a better situation – not grabbing for ourselves. Our trust in God will reverse the situation in His good time !

Men and women are growing more anxious to establish closer ties of brotherhood and sisterhood; despite their ignorance, their mistakes, their offenses and even their lapses into barbarism and their wanderings from the path of salvation. Their struggle towards a more human way of life certainly calls for hard work and endurance that will help in human progress. (Pope Paul VI: Encyclical – Populorum Progressio).

We are called to submit to those in authority, exercise our co-responsibility for the common good, our obligation to pay taxes and the right to exercise the right to vote to defend one’s country.

Society is essential to the fulfillment of the human vocation. In it we share our knowledge, exercise our rights and fulfill obligations, seek spiritual values, pass on our cultural heritage, and eagerly strive to make the spiritual achievement of others our own. Thus persons develop economically, socially and politically. (Pope John XXIII; Encyclical pacem in Terris).

Charity is the greatest social commandment – love of God and of others. The constant need for inner conversion to obtain the social changes are necessary for the good of all – the ‘common good’. Charity is self-giving, ‘Whoever seeks to gain his life will loose it, but whoever looses his life will preserve it’. (Luke 17:33).

In summary:

The human person needs to live in society to develop. The human person ought to be the purpose of every social organization, including the family, the church and the government. It is holy and virtuous to take part in voluntary work to help others. Where sin has entered society, there is a call for conversion of hearts.

 

Fasting is an action common to all religions. But for the Christian, it is not a matter of giving up, but of giving for, of imitation of Christ in the desert, making God first in his heart. It is also imitation of Christ on the Cross, an act of worship and surrender, of saying for us, an act of love for us and for our salvation.

For Catholics, there is an obligation to fast on Ash Wednesday and on Good Friday – one main meal and two light meals in the course of the day – and to abstain from meat. The law of fasting obliges all Catholics, except the sick, between the ages of twenty one and fifty nine. The law of abstinence obliges all Catholics over the age of fourteen.

At other times, for example, all Fridays of the year, Catholics must practice self-denial either by continuing to abstain from meat if they wish or by any other act of self-denial such as attending Mass, making the Stations of the Cross, abstaining from cigarettes, alcohol or any other form of entertainment, making an extra effort in terms of family prayer, or by going to visit the sick and the lonely.

Jesus this Lent, invites us to experience and to enter ever more deeply into his own most personal and intimate moments: from the desert through prayer, fasting and almsgiving, into truth, freedom and love; and so on to Jerusalem through passion and death and into Life.

- adapted from Marist Messenger, March 2001

Fr. Julian Geaney was ordained priest on January 16^th and Fr. Daniel Lima was ordained on January 20^th, 2001. The week before their Ordination to the priesthood, as deacons, they spent their time reflecting on an important document in which Pope John Paul II set out his reflections on what the Priest for 2000 and onwards needs if he is to serve well God’s people.

There are four main points on which the Pope makes reflection. The man accepting to be a priest today must get good HUMAN FORMATION. He must be trained to relate with understanding to all the people he will serve in the various works he will do as a priest. His human behaviour must be Christ-like.

The priest for 2000 and onwards must have deep SPIRITUAL FORMATION. Because of a deep life of prayer, the priest of today must share with his people the quality of his relationship with God.

Today’s priest has to have the best possible INTELLECTUAL FORMATION. He has to be a shepherd to all the members of his congregation, those with higher education and those with less education.

The priest is a Pastor – one who cares for his people and so he has to have a good PASTORAL FORMATION. With their minds full of these important ideas, our two deacons set out for Avuavu Parish by outboard-powered canoe. The sea was very kind for the trip. God’s care was all around us.

The Ordination days were very festive. January 16^th, in his home village, Father Julian Geaney was ordained a priest. The preparations, the beautiful Liturgy, and the warm hospitality of the Laloato community was a clear sign of their joy in witnessing a son of their community being ordained.

On January 20^th in Malagheti village, Father Daniel Lima’s community shared the same joy. The enthusiasm of the youth, the reverence of the older people, and again the quality of the preparations told of the deep desire of both communities to have good priests.

Of course, Fr. Julian and Fr. Daniel were not ordained for the people of their home communities, they were ordained for the Archdiocese. All of us have that same joy as we congratulate our two new priests. We look to you to be men with good human qualities. We want you to be our spiritual guides. From your union with God, lead us to know and love God more and more.

We live in changing times. We look to you, our priests, to guide us by your intellectual training along the paths of justice and peace which are at the heart of the Church’s Social Teaching. Be good teachers for our times.

Our young people are sheep without shepherds. Please, in your pastoral care, care for all sections of our various communities.

It was a great honour and joy for me, as your bishop, to journey with you. I thank God for the privilege of Laying Hands on you and sharing with you the Ministerial Priesthood of Christ in the celebration of the Sacrament of Holy Orders.

 

Good Governance Vs Business as Usual

The Governor of the Central Bank, Rick Hou, has recently gone on an information and awareness blitz to publicly inform members of parliament, aid donors and the country at large on the seriousness of our economic tailspin. In his judgment the nation has about 6 weeks of external reserves. During this Easter period, if the $5 million weekly outflow continues without new money coming into the bank, then the nation's overseas money will dry up and it would be impossible to import fuel, food, medicine, etc.

At the nation's recently convened Economic Summit, 26 February, all its major donors (World Bank, IMF, ADB, bi-lateral donors--Australia, New Zealand, UK, etc) were informed of this dire economic meltdown. Solomons' Central Bank Governor informed the gathering and yet even in that serious setting the government had not yet created its Peace Budget 2001 to spell out where donor monies would go. Donors are willing, no, anxious, to help but it seems government does not read the present situation with the same seriousness.

Rather than cutting back expenditure, introducing cost-saving measures, eliminating import remission concessions and placing the nation on an emergency footing, government runs its affairs as 'business as usual'. At this stage 6 major ministries are required, not the 18 that currently draw down funds on a bankrupt treasury. Creating posts for failed politicians and business cronies as well as funding an Office of the Caucus at the same level as a major ministry drain an already weakened economy. It failed recently, for instance, to collect import duties on cigarettes (more than $2 million).

Government behaves more like an insurance company paying out claims e.g. compensation demands, 'danger' allowances, etc. when its own institutions, e.g. SICHE, national secondary schools, the Central Hospital as well as many rural clinics are without critical and essential medical supplies.

When government finally does respond to a villagers’ desperate need to have copra bought by Commodity Export and Marketing Board (CEMA), it does not demand a full account of how, where and why CEMA claims to have lost $9.5 million during the Social Unrest period. Copra farmers don't ask compensation, they are nor seeking 'danger allowances' but only that their copra be purchased, the one product that the country can still export. Our oil palm, gold production and fish canning industries no longer work. Only round logs and copra generate any kind of overseas earnings.

Aid donors are ready and willing to help but not on government's terms. Taiwan, for instance, has not abandoned the Solomons in spite of its failed blackmail attempts with mainland China late last year. But it seems now that its aid is fine tuned, e. g. $3 million for printed text books, transportation for Solomons winning football team for the Formosa Cup, and not an open ended cheque book. UK has targeted primary education for its assistance to the country. Is this the wave of the future where donors focus tightly where their aid dollars will flow and less and less to open ended funding?

At present doing some thing positive to the deteriorating economy is essential to the continuance of the nation. Continued insistence on compensation payments, failure to understand the serious of the issue and lack of leadership converge to form a powerful weapon destroying Solomon Islands. Demanding compensation even legitimate claims at this time is akin to demanding lunch on a sinking ship. The government, church communities, Civil Society and especially the nation's women must pull together at this time of high crisis. Whether we do so will give a good indication how the nation will survive this time of great trail.

Dr. John Roughan is Advisor of the Solomon Islands Development Trust, a Non-Government Agency that caters to development at grass root levels

Those amazing beings - WOMEN

By the time the Lord made mothers, He was into his sixth day of working overtime. An angel appeared and said, "Why are you spending so much time on this one?"

The Lord answered, "She has to be completely washable, have 200 moveable parts, all replaceable; run on betel nut and leftovers; have a hug that can cure anything from a scraped knee to a broken heart; and six pairs of hands."

The angel was astounded at the requirements for this one. "Six pairs of hands! No way!" said the angel. The Lord replied, "Oh, it's not the hands that are the problem, it's the three pairs of eyes that mothers must have." "And that's just on the standard model?" the angel asked. The Lord nodded in agreement, "One pair of eyes are to see through closed doors as she asks her children what they are doing, even though she already knows. Another pair in the back of her head are to see what she needs to know even though no one thinks she can and the third pair are here in the front of her head. They are for looking at an errant child and saying that she understands and loves him or her without even saying a single word." The angel tried to stop the Lord. This is too much work for one day. Wait until tomorrow to finish."

"But I can't," the Lord protested. "I am so close to finishing this creation that is so close to my own heart. She already heals herself when she is sick and can feed a family of six on a basket of yam and can get a nine year old to wash in the stream."

The angel moved closer and touched the woman. "But you have made her so soft, Lord." "She is soft," the Lord agreed, "but I have also made her tough. You have no idea what she can endure or accomplish." "Will she be able to think?" asked the angel. The Lord replied, "Not only will she be able to think, she will be able to reason and negotiate."

The angel then noticed something and reached out and touched the woman's cheek. "Oops, it looks like you have a leak with this model. I told you that you were trying to put too much into this one." "That's not a leak," the Lord objected. "That's a tear!" "What's a tear for?" the angel asked. The Lord said, "The tear is her way of expressing her joy, her sorrow, her disappointment, her pain, her loneliness, her grief and her pride." The angel was impressed. "You are a genius, Lord.. You thought of everything. WOMEN are truly amazing."

Why do they come ?

---

Jerry Jones, Peace Corp Volunteer

Why do they come? It is always with their small children in their arms. The older children walk close behind watching every move. Long distances are covered, often during the hottest part of the day or in the rain. Yet they come. They all have family matters that must be attended to -

food must be planted, gathered, and cooked, children must be cared for, men must be dealt with. They meet in huts, old school buildings, sheds or under the trees.

It is not easy for these young women to get to reach their destinations. The meetings are on topics they know little about and don’t fully understand. Yet they come, with a big beautiful smile on their faces. They are safe in their group and no one wants to stand out. They smile and hide their happy faces.

Why do they come? They come because they want to make their lives better. They come to ask questions. They come to understand. Progress is slow and not even necessary and newcomers are always welcomed. Occasionally they grasp and understand a concept and then they are able to speak in their custom language, discuss and share issues with others and challenge them. They feel good about themselves as they grow.

Why not encourage them to be better and live happier? Why not take away some of their load and let them grow? When they grow, they see things differently. If we allow them to lead, we will be exposed to a different view of all the things around us. They will lead us to better health, better governments and a safer family life. When they are empowered, encouraged, and allowed to be their very best, we will find the true answer to "why they come?"

They come for the love they have for us – their family.

Voices on WOMEN

"…. Deep inside her unconscious being she holds the incorrect belief that she is unworthy. This belief was formed and reinforced in childhood every time she had to suppress her feelings, needs or wishes. A woman is particularly vulnerable to the negative and incorrect belief that she doesn’t deserve to be loved. If as a child she witnessed abuse or was directly abused, then she is even more vulnerable to feeling unworthy of love; it is then harder for her to determine her worth".

- John Gray, Men are from Mars, Women from Venus.

"As the women go, so does the nation. Whenever the women of a nation let down their moral barriers, and sacrifice their moral principles on a large scale just to satisfy the passion of men, then both men and women will become immoral. But whenever the women of a nation hold fast to their moral principles, in spite of all efforst to break them down, then the men have no choice but to respect the women – because they command and deserve respect. Both men and women, then, will lead better lives; will grow strong and free and they will be able to build up a great nation".

- Mahatma Gandhi, Father of the Indian Nation

"We in Solomon Islands possess different cultures depending on the area from which we come. In Guadalcanal, the Tathiboko people possess a different culture from those of the West Guadalcanal or Central Guadalcanal. A woman leads the tribe. Yet I wonder if a man understands this? Income, in cash or kind in the hands of the man is seldom used for the woman or the children in the family. We women, thus suffer greatly. It affects our lives. It affects our future generations. When will our men realize this ?"

- Lucy Kaua, Christ the King Parish, Tetere

"Our Women of Solomon Islands are beginning to see where they should be. Doors are opening to permit them to be exposed to learning and opportunities are involving them in areas of responsibility such as leadership, decision making and the like. And yes. They will benefit much from being literate."

- Anne M. Saenemia -Provincial President, Mothers Union, Church of Melanesia.

Women are finally emerging at higher levels of society. For the past 22 months they have involved themselves in peace conferences, Peace meetings, prayer services, delivery of food, relief work, etc. It’s nice to see them take the initative."

- Judith Siota, Women and Family Coordinator, Church of Melanesia.

During the recent tension the Catholic Women have reached out to all women in the rural areas and communities thus supporting them with their basic needs. We thus need to realize the importance of supporting and being together for the good of all."

- Martha Horiwapu, Coordinator

Catholic Womens Council

 Young women you have the capability and potential, so share your resources. Work together with your local women’s groups and address your local needs. That will be a big contribution to society."

- Andela Maria, youth

  "What does the word ‘culture’ mean to you? To me, Culture means Identity and it includes tribe, ancestors, custom stories, custom dances, the ‘kave’ (shell money) I wear around my neck…. The list goes on. Some are good – beautiful artifacts, custom dances, etc., and some are bad. Head-hunting is one of them. We live in a multicultural nation and no one culture is better than the other and I feel sad to see that our culture is dying fast. Attend an Annual Prize Day or any school function in town – and you see students flexing their bodies to a western beat. Would they know a custom dance or song?

The question I constantly ask myself is, "What can I do to help preserve my culture?". You do not need to be an historian but just do what you can - whether you are learning your genealogy, know how to weave a mat, bake in an earth oven, or whatever. You are thus preserving our culture and keeping it alive for future generations."

- Mary Anne, Holy Family Parish, Kukum

"Women must command and demand respect. It needs to start in the home, the family, among children and with your husband. Speak out if you are not happy with something. Share your ideas and discuss your problems. You will thus be helping with the peace process of Solomon Islands."

- Maureen Vovoza, Family Support Centre Training Officer

Celebrating WOMEN

Sr. Alice Nabata DMI

22 and 24 young girls and attended the Young Girls programme held on 9^th and 10^th February, 2001 and 23rd and 24th February, 2001, at Don Bosco House of Prayer, West Kola Ridge. The participants hailed from five parishes within the Archdiocese of Honiara - Tetere Parish, Kukum
Parish, Tangarare Parish, Visale Parish and Manivovo Parish. The girls aged from 15 to 27 years.  All were interested and participated fully in all the sessions. It was sad to see them express helplessness at the fact that they are unable to do much about their valuable culture and traditions which are being ‘run over’ today.

"The sessions dealt with topics that were very helpful to us young girls to discover ourselves - as persons and to accept our good and bad experiences in life", expressed Madalene Pilumate and Mariana Lui.  "It has encouraged me to live a good Christian life", said Matilda Raomae. "It helps me value my Culture, and shapes my life", stated Cynthia Samane.

The programme was conducted by the Salesians and the DMI Sisters.  The animators of the programme were Fr. Luiciano Capelli sdb, Fr. Ambrose Pereira sdb, Sr. Ceciliana Olilaeni, Sr. Madalena Maduka, Sr. Anna Ngosana, Sr.Alice Nabata, Sr.Nellie Arepuru and Sr. Bernadette
Maropo.  A deepening of this programme is to be held in the months ahead. The animators hope that it will help the participants become good leaders in their family and community as well as reach out to others in their Parishes and communities.

Guale women raise their voice for ‘No More Guns’

Fr. Ambrose Pereira sdb

Over 600 women, men and children joined in a very unique celebration of the International Women’s Day on 12^th March, 2001 at Tetere. The day was a mixture of reflection, sharing and celebration. Grinta Tome, Lucy Kaua, Evelyn Niumana, Sarah Manedethea and Catherine Kalea were over the past few weeks, guided and advised by IPMT member Robyn Ross and Jo Casta Sibbel stationed at Tetere, together with the other IPMT members. The women dressed in white and blue, had floral coloured scarves – a symbol of unity, joy and happiness - marched to panpipe music and the Solomon Islands National Anthem.

"Total Disarmament" was the theme on which revolved the entire day. "Making Guale – A gun Free Island"; "We young people, support our mothers, we can be useful without guns"; "Education First, Guns fo wat ia ?" were but a few of the banners that were carried by the participants as they marched into the Tetere Catholic Community Centre.

The occasion was witnessed by Eziekel Alebua, (Guadalcanal Premier), Martina Ului, (NCC President) and others who exhorted and implored all to surrender their weapons. The Family Support Centre through their skits – "Peace and Reconciliation", and "Who’s is my neighbour?" brought home powerful messages of respect, love and forgiveness. Annie Bosawai, Roslyn Nunuvia, Catherine Kalea and Rosemary Vutine summarized the views of the women on topics discussed.

A delicious lunch was followed by a Choir competition at which the Church of Melanesia Mothers emerged winners. Docas Society came second and the Catholic Mothers, third.

"Hopefully, this celebration of the International Women’s Day will bring about a sense of accomplishment and help them realize that they have amazing power and strength that if harnessed as a community can achieve tremendous results," says a smiling Jo Casta Sibbel, IPMT member, at the end of an tiring but enriching day. "We are hopeful that our women will now come together not just as a church but as a community – constantly working for Peace and reconciliation," adds Lucy Kaua.

-The roundness of the moon

-The swaying of the grass

-The softness of the young reeds

-The beauty of the flowers

-The brightness of the rising sun

-The nervous alertness of a cat

-The sweetness of honey

-The anger of a tiger

-The heat of the fire

-The coldness of ice

-The chatter of a bird

-The faithfulness of the lioness …

God mixed all of these, created woman, and gave her to the man seeing her beside him to be his mate.

After a week, the man came back and side: "Lord, the woman you gave me is not good for me. She makes me sad all the time, and with her chatter I have no time to rest. She wants my attention, she is too lazy and wastes my time. I have no time to rest. Would you please take her back?

The Lord said: "Thank you" and took her back. After another week, the man went back to God and said: "Lord, my life’s empty without the woman you gave me. I really miss her beautiful face, and with her smile she brightens my day. I cannot live any longer without her. "Would you please give her back to me?" So, the Lord gave her back to him.

Three days later the man came back and said, "Lord, I just cannot understand her. I can’t explain this to you. I think this woman gives me more problems and worries rather than peace and joys. It is better for you to take her back."

The Lord said: "And you cannot live without her either." He kept on working.

The man side to himself: "Yes, that is true, I cannot live with her easily, but I know I cannot live without her."

And the woman smiled and looked at the Lord and said: "We were made for each other and we will learn to accept our differences.

Respect and Responsibility

- Sr. Margaret Tisch smsm

Bishop Epalle Catholic School began as Holy Cross Kindy in 1982, under the directorship of Sr. Noela DMI and with the blessings of the then Bishop Kurungku, Bishop of Honiara.

 

"Respect and Responsibility" is the motto of Bishop Epalle Catholic School, a school situated on the western end of Honiara, that caters to nearly 1,100 students. Due to the recent ethnic tension, the school has increased its intake to give many extra students the possibility of continuing their education. The school, one of the best in the city caters to children just a few years old in their Early Childhood classes to adolescents in Form 5.

"A special characteristic of the Epalle school is that the girls and boys are taught in separate classes" stated Dr. John Roughan. "It has its advantages and disadvantages". "Above all it gives the girls the possibility to shine and the trend is that many girls do as well as and sometimes better than the boys," states Sr. Margaret Tisch smsm, deputy principal of the secondary divisions".

Mrs. Mary Laore, deputy principal of the primary is doing a great job with the help of a dedicated staff. The new coordinator of Early Childhood Education Mrs. Gwenneth Gulu is making good changes in her division for the good of the students.

Respect, honesty, dedication to duty, punctuality and several other values are stressed. Music, Fine Arts and Cultural activities also form part of the yearly programme. A Speech Day, Bishop Epalle Day, Graduation Day, etc. together with several other weekly occasions give the student the possibility of an all round development. Holy Cross Cathedral is privileged to have the different Forms and Standards animate the Sunday Liturgical Celebrations. Mr. Lucian Kopei, is in-charge of Christian Education and is striving to creatively bring out Christian values and attitudes.

"We strive to develop each child as a good Christian, build up sound values and create positive leadership in the students," states Mr. Collin B. Ruqebatu, Principal of the school. He is also hopeful that the school grows with an ethos, has continuity and direction and a dynamic healthy spirit of competition that is necessary for good growth. It is his wish that with an increase in facilities – Forms 6 and 7 will also be a possibility in the near future. He is happy with the very positive attitude and vibrant spirit present amongst the administrators and the staff. Regular meetings and in-service training programmes have fostered oneness of purpose. Sr. Vicki Wilson smsm, from SIDT, held a workshop on stress management and counseling. She is the student counselor and her efforts are already bearing fruit.

The Rotary club has chosen Bishop Epalle School for a pilot project of "The 4 Way Test" – aimed at being responsible for one’s actions. The Rotary Club last year also chose three Form 4 girls to spend 6 weeks in Australia early this year on an enhancement programme.

Peace, Law and Order must return to Solomon Islands, if the country is to grow and develop. Bishop Epalle Catholic School is doing its best to inspire every youngster to make that his or her way of life.

"My dream is that Bishop Epalle creates honest and positive leadership for the country". - Collin B. Ruqebatu, Principal

"We want our students to grow up as responsible Christian citizens of Solomon Islands. Punctuality, honesty, dedication to duty, respect, etc., are very essential for all of us." - Sr. Margaret Tisch smsm, Deputy Principal

"The school helps both – teachers and students to do things well. It’s wonderful to work when relationships are good." - Mrs. Emily Meke, Christian Education

As a leader, I strive to be responsible. This creates trust, which in turn builds up friendship. By this we are constructing the road to a better future. - Joseph Boso – Form 5, Head boy

I believe that the students have nominated me as their leader and I must make myself worthy of it at all times. I will always strive to develop my leadership skills, respect my teachers and help my companions develop themselves."- Rubina Tagana, Form 5, Head girl

"I strive to make the Liturgical celebrations lively and meaningful. The use of music and dance helps in worship. May prayer help us grow in respect for ourselves and for others."- Lucien Kopei, Christian Education

Bishop Louis Marie Raucaz was born in Savoy, France in 1878, and arrived in the Solomons in 1903 at the age of 24.  His first 7 years were at Tangarare. After au unsuccessful year on New Georgia, he was posted to Buma, where he founded the first mission in North Malaita.  At the age of 41, he was ordained Bishop for the Solomons.  He shifted his headquarters from Rua Sura to Visale and built a cathedral there.  A born engineer, he installed electricity and a communication system there.

Bishop Racaz saw the needs of the people and was very much concerned to open schools, hospitals and assist in technical training.  He was interested in the people and did all he could to build up a healthy Christian community. Teaching the boys and girls how to read and write was his priority. He also strove to get rid of the high child mortality rate and to see that the people are strengthened in their family and village life.  To get started on these he was helped by the Society of Propagation of the Faith in 1925.

Another project that he was concerned about was the commencement of a pious sodality of girls that eventually became a religious congregation. NA DALENA KO MARIA originated at the request of a few girls in Wainoni Bay.  Veronika Malefo, adopted daughter of Alosio Alukwao, and Maria Kevasi of Makira ventured to ask Sr. Brigitte smsm, one day if they too might become sisters.  Why not?    A house for their training was built at Visale by Bishop Racaz, and Sr. Evangeline smsm was appointed as their instructress in the knowledge of prayer, the religious life and how to wear clothing.  Religious life was a novel option for young women, opening an avenue other than arranged marriage.  The first two made their promises and two more were received later as 'DALENA KO MARIA IMACULATA' (Daughters of Mary Immaculate) at Visale.

In 1932 the first Postulate began with five girls - Maria Kevasi and Susan Ngenge from Wainoni Bay, Stephanie and Pilomena from Tangarare and Paula Palebiti from Savo Island. In June 1934, Bishop Raucaz became ill and had to leave the mission for medical care in Sydney. He died on 22rd July 1934 and in April 1935 Father Aubin became Vicar Apostolic of the Solomons to continue his work .

Rev. Mother Reine smsm was the first Mother General and the second was Mother Assupta smsm (Sr. Marie Therese Douillord)..   Their mission was to help the Catholic church, by assisting in – the teaching of the children, care of babies, Dispensary work and visiting the sick, care of churches and sacristies, assisting the priests on their mission stations and any kind of work that would benefit the mission, according to the superior's decision.

Sr. Donasiana Kauhiri DMI, was the first local Mother General elected on 22^nd December, 1975 and re-elected in 1979. Second mother general Sr. Pauline Gobua, third, the late Sr. Senoveva Garo, fourth, Sr. Mary Rosaria until the present leadership Sr. Mary Ceciliana who was re-elected in 1999. 

The General Chaper in December 1999, facilitated by Srs. Etta and Cleofe ma, from the Philippines, broadened the focus, mission and apostolate of the Congregation.  The charism of our congregation is thus to minister to women and families in imitation of the spirit of Mary’s Visitation. We also named our Founder the late Bishop Raucaz. 

The new millennium calls them to work with women and families.  It has indeed been a century of growth, thanks to efforts of the smsm sisters.

The sisters today are engaged in teaching children, working in the hospital , helping families, training catechists, domestic work in the Rectory, and several other works.

For the Salvation of Souls

In the Solomon Islands and Papua New Guinea, they are involved in parish work, retreats, catechisis, teaching and research. Members of the Order make profession of vows to live in a community with prayer and constant concern for study. Community life, study and prayer are most important for the success of the work of preaching. At the moment we have five brothers who are studying to become priest and seven brothers of whom one or two are also pursuing to study for the priesthood. They are both from Papua New Guinea and the Solomon Islands.

If you think that you might be called to serve the Lord in this way, you can write to the following address:

Vocation Promoter

Dominican Friars

P.O. Box R91

Ranadi, Solomon Islands or

Tel: (677) 39509; Fax: (677) 38032

The Couples for Christ (CFC) is a "Womb-to-tomb" lay apostolate in the Catholic Church. It is a family ministry aimed to bring about renewal in individuals, family life, communities, parishes and the global community. It is fully involved in the church, working with clergy and religious striving to renew all levels of society. Apart from the programme for the Couples other ministries such as: Kids for Christ (KFC), Youth for Christ (YFC), Singles for Christ (SFC), Handmaids of the Lord (HOLD) and Servants of the Lord (SOLD).

Couples for Christ started in the Philippines in 1981 with just 16 families. Today it numbers more than 1,000,000 members in over 78 countries. Solomon Islands was the 35^th country and became a member in December, 1996. On 11^th March, 2000, the Vatican had granted Pontifical Recognition to Couples for Christ as a lay association of the faithful in the Church, with its mission: "To rise up in defense for God’s work, to bring back families to the plan of God and to bring the Lord’s strength and light to those who are struggling to be truly Christian families in the modern world."

An exciting area in the life and mission of Couples for Christ has been the establishment of a new clerical order called the Society of the Holy Family (SHF) for young men called to serve Him in the priesthood, and soon a religious order fro young single women will be established called the Sisters of the Holy Family. The challenge of this third millennium is thus to respond to God’s grace and work for total human liberation.

‘Persons are Gifts’ was the theme of the three-day retreat attended by the Don Bosco students and animated by Fr. Luciano Capelli sdb, Fr. Ambrose Pereira sdb, Mr. Atu Balekana, Mr. Waisea Baniwalla, Sr. Madalena Maduka DMI and Sr. Nellie Arepuru DMI. The programme held at the Don Bosco House of Prayer, from 2^nd to 4^th March, 2001, made the participants aware that they are gifts – gifts to themselves and gifts to others. They were led through animation, discussions and presentations to appreciate the wonderful persons that they are and to grow in respect and love for the persons around them. A powerful moment was the tangible presence of care and concern of their parents or guardians through a letter. Their replies back home were a sign of forgiveness, reconciliation and peace – so much needed in families, communities and in our country. A deep sense of relief was experienced by a majority of participants as they made their peace with God through the Sacrament of Reconciliation.

Gratitude and thanks was evident on the faces of the participants as they completed a very enjoyable and meaningful retreat. "I enjoyed the coming together and sharing of ideas very much," stated Jeffrey Manu. "The place and the programme is well organized and I have benefited greatly through the understanding that I am a ‘gift’," was what Allen Saru had to say.

The Salesians strive to blend the material and the spiritual and hence setting aside time for a closer contact with God is very essential. "It is in a relaxed atmosphere away from the daily routine that the individual is able to take a closer look at himself and where he is heading to," commented Fr. Ambrose Pereira sdb. "A retreat touches each one at a deeper level and this is reflected in the different areas of their lives" stated Fr. Luciano Capelli sdb, Rector and Director of Don Bosco. It is hoped that several other youth will benefit from these and other programmes to be held in future.

 

Don Bosco students had their first informal visit from a High Education Department Official in the person of Mr. Bernard Rapasia, Director of Non-formal Education.

Mr. Rapasia was able to witness the Morning Prayer and the flag ceremony. He then addressed the students and made them aware of how fortunate they are in being able to pursue their dream of learning the skills needed to be a mechanic with the attitudes of a good Christian and Honest Citizen. This in spite of the difficult time we are in as a country.

Director Rapasia then thanked Don Bosco for having set up the training center at the most critical time at the height of the tension thus giving a message of faith in the youth and their capacity to dream and to build a better future for Solomon Islands. He then challenged Don Bosco to dream big and continue the good work. "The challenge has been well taken," stated Fr. Luciano Capelli sdb, Rector of the Salesians of Don Bosco and Director of the project. "Don Bosco is here to stay and is ready to work hand in hand with any one interested in the development of skills for industry or self-employment. This is a practical contribution to the reconstruction of the country by educating the youth through daily committed hard work and discipline."

The students, now in their 5^th month of training proceeded then to show the visitor their skills in welding and mechanics. Fr. Ambrose together with instructors Atu and Waisea were delighted to accompany the Visitor to see the students at work and the Centre’s Facilities.

Due to the many requests, Don Bosco plans to expand the present facilities to be able to accommodate more students. Don Bosco hopes to offer courses for girls too as soon as development partners are willing to share their resources.

Personalities

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A constant stream of personalities flow in and out of the Solomon Islands. We are enriched by their life and experience. We are grateful to have a few of them speak out.

Fr. Marek Owsiak cm, aged 39 years, hails from Krakow, Warsawa, Poland. He was ordained on 27^th May 1989 and is in-charge of the Spiritual Year of the candidates. He forms part of the community of the Vincentians and resides at the Holy Name Seminary, Tenaru. "I am happy to be part of the growth of the future priests here in Solomon Islands. Our focus at this moment is the human formation of the candidate and that is of prior importance. We know that a good man will be a good priest".

Fr. Cor Hooyamayers sm, a self-made man has been the one to set up the Chancery of the Archdiocese of Honiara, Solomon Islands. His dedicated and hard work has set the church on a firm foundation. His financial side also had the apostolic dimension; seen very visibly in his care for Prisoners at the Central Prison, Rove. "I have been able to achieve so much due to the support of many missionaries in and out of Solomon Islands. I am immensely grateful to the staff of the Chancery, for their regularity and commitment to the task entrusted to them". He leaves us a message of self-discipline – very much needed in our society today."

Sr. Anna Nuariki smsm, made her first profession on 2^nd February, 2001 at Sydney, Australia. She hails from Marakei Islands, Kiribati, Central Pacific, and teaches at Bishop Epalle Primary School, Honiara. She is enthusiastic about her work here in Solomon Islands. "It is my wish to help students to know and deepen their faith in Jesus Christ. I want my life to be one of service to people. I believe that it is in helping and reaching out to others that they benefit while I learn from them too."

Fr. Anton Everwin sm, is hospital Chaplin in Loningen, Germany and will spend a few weeks here in Solomon Islands. "I love Solomon Islands, the place and the people. Having spent 18 happy years here, in Marau and Manivovo – I find myself in a strange land with strange people. Tensions and wars, in families or in countries always bring about destruction. I am filled with sorrow and sadness. History often tells us that the one who starts the war always looses it. I hope our loving, peaceful, happy people of Solomon Islands will always realize this".

Br. Valeriano Kwany fms, aged 30 years is from Kusuba Village, Tangarare Parish. He made his first profession on 25^th November, 2000. While at NAC for his Pastoral Year, he taught Pastoral Theology, Liturgy and Human Development. "I see my life as a response to God’s love for me and I show this in reaching out to the youth of today".

News Bits

John Paul II has as the theme for the next World Youth Day chosen "If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself, take up his cross and follow me." It will be held on Palm Sunday, April 8. He has encouraged bishops around the world to hold similar programmes in their dioceses.

World Communications Day will be held on 27^th May, 2001. The Pope appeals to all to make an active commitment to the field of media. "The reality of the media has grown more intricate. On one hand, it can blur the distinction between truth and reality, but on the other, it can open up unprecedented opportunities for making the truth more accessible to many more people. The task of the Church is to ensure that it is the latter that actually happens", affirmed Pope John Paul II.

Catholic Mothers Thanksgiving

About 500 catholic women, men and children gathered to thank the Lord for breaking down the barriers of division and the coming together of all people. In his homily, Fr. Bernard O’Donnell, stated that mothers ought to be givers of life, good educators and god homemakers. Present for the celebration were women from Ruavatu, Tetere, Tenaru, Kukum, Honiara, Tanagai and Visale. The afternoon brought in various groups who entertained the gathering. Foremost among them were groups from Tetere and Tenaru with their panpipes and lively dances. Archbishop Adrian Smith and Aloysious Wagi also spoke to the gathering.

Couples for Christ – 4^th Anniversary

CFC celebrated their 4^th Anniversary, on 9^th December, 2000 at the Eucharistic Celebration animated by them. Reports about their activities were later presented by Sir john Muria, Dr. Steve Aumanu and Br. Joseph Nelson. The YFC and the KFC then staged a programme entitled, "Womb to Tomb".

Christmas at Tangarare

The parishioners of Tangarare enjoyed preparing for Christmas. With brooms and ladders, buckets and rags – they came to wash their church. The activity – a yearly feature brought together young and old, men and women, boys and girls. The spirit of joy reigned high as just a few days before the Christmas preparations Fr. Apolonare Tique arrived as Parish priest of Tangarare.

Peace Programme at Christ the King Parish, Tetere

The Christ the King Youth animated the Eucharistic Celebration on Sunday 28^th January, 2001. Under the direction of Lucy and Maureen the six villages then organized a "Bring and Buy" programme at which they collected SBD 965.00. The IPMT of Tetere then organized an interactive Peace Programme. 300 youth, men and women were present for the programme conducted by Peter Lockey and Robyn Ross of the IPMT. Discussions revolved around Peace and its implications. It was encouraging to have the people voice out their fears and their concerns. The people look forward to many more such interactions.

Tangarare Pastoral Centre reopens

The programme of the Tangarare pastoral center commences with only boys from the different parishes of Guadalcanal and Makira. The center trains young people for Pastoral Leadership. The center was privileged to have Archbishop Adrian Smith in January as he made his way for the ordinations at AvuAvu.

Leadership Training programme

60 young boys and girls commenced their Leadership programme at the Buma Pastoral Centre. Bishop Gerard Loft sm, Bishop of Auki, presided at that Eucharistic Celebration and encouraged all the participants to imbibe values and attitudes of truth, honesty and justice – so much needed for leaders today. Sr. Clerita, Director of the center is indeed happy that programmes at the center have got off to a good start. Together with the other animators - Sr. Danielle DMI, Sr. Lucy, Fr. Francis Maka, Fr. John Adai and Mr. Mathew Iroga – they look forward to look forward to many programmes in the year ahead.

"Great Dreams, Come True" was the theme of the celebration of the Feast of St. John Bosco held on 31^st January, 2001 at Don Bosco Henderson, Solomon Islands. It brought together 66 priests, brothers, sisters and close collaborators of the Salesians who gathered to celebrate the occasion, an event to remember with songs and games and a lot of interaction among the guests. All were very happy to visit the shops and move around the plantation of the school. Fr. Luciano Capelli thanked the Bishop and the church for the criteria and his challenge – to be faithful to the founder in a very dynamic way. In recounting the progress during the past few months – he stated that as Salesians we are interested in giving persons a vision and a hope. It is in an atmosphere of trust that a person grows. He was happy that the 16 students have made steady progress – despite the current situation we are in. May Don Bosco bless our youth of Solomon Islands.

Hello ! It’s God Calling !

33 students of Form 6 from St. Joseph’s, Tenaru attended a one-day Retreat at the Don Bosco - House of Prayer, on 7^th March, 2001. The Retreat organized as part of catering to the spiritual needs of the students dealt with topics such as Prayer, Lent - a time for Renewal, Self-acceptance, etc. All were grateful to the animators - Fr. Ambrose Pereira sdb, Sr. Madalena Maduka and Sr.Nellie Arepuru for an excellent day. "I am indeed impressed by the atmosphere and the clean and neat setting of the House of Prayer. It has contributed much to setting the tone of the entire day," commented Br. Joe Huges fms, Director of St. Joseph’s, Tenaru. Several expressed the need for these and other value based programmes for themselves, their companions in other schools. They are also hopeful that it will help the Peace Process and Progress of the country.

The School reopened on 21^st January, for the Academic Year 2001. Ms. Placida Pita, Principal of the school is delighted to be back to the familiar surroundings after eight months. "We are grateful to the many people – priests, religious, parents, students, ex-students and overseas aid donors, who have looked after the site and the school, whilst they were away and prepared it for the reopening", said the contented Principal. Telephonic or Fax contact has not been possible due to the break-down of the Telekom exchange, but messages could be sent through the Solomon Post: Post Box 11, Honiara. Alternatively a message for the principal could be left at the Archdiocesan Office, Tel: 22387, or messages could reach through "wontoks".

Beauty Tips

Audrey Hepburn

For attractive lips,

Speak words of kindness.
For lovely eyes,

Seek out the good in people.
For a slim figure,

Share your food with the hungry.
For beautiful hair,

Let a child run his fingers through it once a day.
For poise,

Walk with the knowledge you'll never walk alone.

People, even more than things, have to be restored, renewed,
revived, reclaimed and redeemed. Never throw out anybody.

Remember:

If you ever need a helping hand, you'll find One at the end of your arm.

As you grow older you will discover that you have two hands.

One for helping yourself, the other for helping others.

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FOR PRIVATE CIRCULATION ONLY

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

Voice Katolika: Quarterly Newsletter of the Catholic Church

Produced by: Catholic Church Solomon Islands, for the Archdiocese of Honiara, Diocese of Auki and Diocese of Gizo

Published by: Catholic Communications Solomon Islands

Editor: Fr. Ambrose Pereira sdb

Co-editors: Fr. Luciano Capelli sdb, Sr. Margaret Tisch smsm, Sr. Vicki Wilson smsm

Printed at: Solomon Islands Printers Limited, Honiara

Office address: Catholic Communications Solomons, P.O. Box 647, Honiara, Solomon Islands

) 6 77-22125 (O) 677– 36222 (R) 2 677– 36333, E-mail: ambrose@donbosco.org.sb