Catholic Professionals Society Retreat cum Workshop

By Cecilia Teliwa

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Sivarai Namona, Bomana: A retreat and planning workshop was held by the Catholic Professional Society (CPS) of Papua New Guinea from 9th to 11th March at Sivarai Namona, Bomana.  The purpose of the program was to spend time in reflection, prayer and discussion.  

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Sixteen participants attended the retreat and every participant had the opportunity to share their feelings, thoughts and experiences.  The participants emphasised how best they could bring about a change involving themselves, to reach out and promote the values of the Kingdom especially to the poor and needy world and promote their Catholic Faith by fully living it out in the reality of their lives.  

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The participants were led through meditation, reflections and spiritual exercises by Fr Ambrose Pereira sdb.  His message was very inspirational, moving and challenging.  Participants had the opportunity to celebrate the Sacraments and make their peace with God. The personal sharing was emotional and highlighted the commitment to one’s Catholic Faith and the struggle to live it out in their daily lives.

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Paul Harricken and Sam Kaipu guided the participants through discussions on the CPS vision, Mission, Core Values.  The participants discussed proposals and amendments to its Constitution.

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“The CPS has been mandated and established by the Catholic Bishops Conference of PNG and the Solomon Islands as a laity-based group of professionals in all walks of life not only to promote and defend the Catholic faith but also to be a voice for those who are not able to speak up or act on issues and matters which affect their everyday lives and livelihood based on Church teachings”, Mr. Harricknen said.

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Present for the concluding mass was Fr. Victor Roche svd, CBC General Secretary.  Fr. Bruce Kupi, Assistant Parish Priest at St. Joseph’s parish was also present for the second half of the program.

“CPS has to be the voice of the church witnessing to Catholic faith with boldness and courage in a secular world with the gifts and talents God has given us”, concluded Fr Victor Roche.

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Little crosses were presented to each participant as a symbol of initiation, incorporation and commissioning to return to their families and ensure that Christ is alive in their lives.

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The participants came out more energised, empowered and inspired. It was a very rewarding, productive and enjoyable weekend spent well in the company of one another. A sense of oneness and belonging was experienced. The quality, experience and talent shared together during the weekend retreat promises a grateful and refreshing experience. With faith, hope and love, the participants resolve to work through their personal resolutions.

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Special thanks to Paul Harricken, Sam Kaipu and Fr. Ambrose Pereira, sdb who spared no effort to prepare a fruitful and meaningful retreat-cum-workshop.

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Three major upcoming events:

• 13th April, 2018: Hosting of FCBCO Formal Dinner at Crown Plaza.  Present for the occasion will be Cardinal Pietro Parolin, Secretary of State, four Cardinals and sixty-five Bishops.

• 14th April, 2018: Cardinal Pietro Parolin will celebrate the Eucharist and speak to the laity at the Shrine of Mary Help of Christians at 7.30am.

• 28th April, 2018: CPS will conduct its AGM to finalise its Constitution and elect its executive members.  Catholic Professionals of different walks of life, including the youth who remain the future leaders of our world tomorrow are invited for the same.