Budoya Parish mothers benefit from CBC SOCOM Advocacy initiative on women empowerment

24th–26th May, Our Lady of the Sacred Heart ( OLSH) Budoya Parish (Diocese of Alotau) – With joyful hymns sung by the choirs, appreciation shining through the villagers’ warm smiles, and love expressed through heartfelt embraces, we knew: the Social Communications Commission’s project delivery was a great success.

Our Lady of the Sacred Heart mothers with their parish priest Fr Japhet Kemali (in black) with SOCOM Secretary Sr Daisy Anne Lisania Augustine MSC and the two seamstresses.

Despite the long journey—first by air, then by road to East Cape, and finally across the open sea on a 60-horsepower outboard motor—nothing could dampen the spirit of this mission. The sight of scattered islands along the way and the radiant smiles of the Sinagus (Mothers) on arrival made every mile worthwhile. Yes, it was breathtaking—not just the scenery, but the love that awaited us on the beautiful shores of Budoya.

The Commission’s project, led by its passionate and dedicated Secretary, Sister Daisy Anne Lisania, MSC, brought more than just eight sewing machines and a collection of sewing materials for the Waluma and Guiya Catholic Women’s Groups. It brought something far greater: ‘Hope’. Hope that now flourishes in the hearts of mothers who have struggled for years to restore purpose in their families. Hope that speaks of new beginnings and opportunities in these small, quiet villages on the island of Budoya.

This sewing empowerment initiative falls under the CBC PNGSI Social Communications Media Advocacy or Media for Development Programs and was made possible through generous funding support from the Diocese of Regensburg, Germany. It is a testament to what can be achieved when solidarity, compassion, and faith come together.

But it wasn’t just equipment that arrived. Along with the delivery came knowledge. And as the saying goes, knowledge is power. Accompanying the team were two expert ‘Meri blouse’ seamstresses—Sr. Adolpha MSC and Mrs. Florence Cheak; who generously offered their time and skill to mentor the Sinagus (Mothers).

The handover took place on Sunday, 25th May 2025, at OLSH Budoya Parish, following a joyful and angelic Mass celebrated by  diocesan  Parish Priest Fr. Japeth. The celebration included the blessing of the sewing machines and the commissioning of over 15 Communion Ministers, who were entrusted with renewed faith to shepherd their Small Christian Communities (SCC) and Basic Christian Communities.

SOCOM Secretary Sr Daisy Anne Lisania Augustine MSC handing over the sewing machine to the mothers with Parish Priest Fr Japhet Kemali as the witness.

In her address to the Sinagus of the island after the Eucharistic celebration, Sister Daisy said the project “will help to pay for school fees” and meet other future needs. While the benefits may not be immediately visible, “as time passes, the fruits will come.” Her words left the Sinagus with a powerful message of patience and trust in God’s timing.

Yet the day didn’t end there. The eager Sinagus quickly began with pattern cutting, material sizing, elastic fitting tutorials, and explanatory sessions led by Sr. Adolpha and Mrs. Cheak. These were followed by trial sewing sessions that lasted for hours. Despite trembling hands, aching backs, and sweaty palms, the experts saw growing potential taking form before their eyes.

Sunday night brought laughter and celebration as the Sinagus, youths, and fathers of the parish gathered in song and dances—showcasing a true display of unity, hope, and gratitude. Yet, beneath the joy lay a silent ‘Call For Help’. Yes, it can be said that, even though this day brought a spark of light, greater support is still needed.

Then came Monday, like a grey cloud sweeping across the islands. It was farewell day. As the team prepared to leave, tears touched the shores of Budoya. The Sinagus of Waluma and Guiya, along with the entire community, stood in tearful gratitude, waving and crying out their thanks as the team boarded the boat back to East Cape.