Pilgrims to Where It All Began: Living the Charism of Don Bosco through Wantok Bosco 2025

Araimiri, Gulf Province, Papua New Guinea: From the 20th to 22nd of June, ‘Wantok Bosco 2025’, a camp gathering participants from various Don Bosco settings, was held at Don Bosco Araimiri in the Gulf Province. A total of two hundred and nine (209) participants attended, including Salesian priests, Sisters, young people, and their animators from the following Don Bosco institutions and parishes: Don Bosco Technological Institute, Boroko; Don Bosco Technical School, Gabutu; Mary Help of Christians, Herehere; Mary Help of Christians Parish, Sabama; and the host, Don Bosco Araimiri. Participants travelled over six hours by truck from Port Moresby to the Gulf Province, to be part of this youthful experience.

The program began on Saturday morning with registration under ten (10) group names: Barbero, Savina, Kramar, Carbonell, Fernandez, De la Cruz, Cordon, Lanaria, Villasanta, and Genovia. These groups were named in honor of the ten pioneer Salesians who first arrived in Araimiri and later served in other parts of Papua New Guinea.

Following registration, participants proceeded to the Eucharistic Celebration, presided over by Fr. Pankaj Xalxo, SDB, Rector and Principal of Don Bosco Araimiri. He was assisted by Fr. Juna, SDB (Delegate for Salesian Youth Ministry – PGS), Fr. Shoji Mathew, SDB (Delegate for Missions and Rector of Savio House), Fr. Gilbert Pano (Parish Priest of MHC Herehere), Fr. Albert Swer (Spiritual Moderator of Don Bosco Gabutu), and Fr. Sylvester Kuli (Spiritual Vice President for Pastoral Affairs at DBTI).

In his opening remarks, Fr. Pankaj expressed his joy at welcoming Salesians, Salesian Sisters, educators, and Bosconians to Araimiri. He encouraged them to visit the institution often. Reflecting on the feast of Saint Aloysius Gonzaga, the patron saint of youth and teenagers, he quoted: "It is better to become a son of God than king of the universe,” emphasizing its relevance to the youth.

The objectives of the Wantok Bosco Camp were rooted in the 2025 Strenna: “Anchored in Hope, Pilgrims with the Young People.”

1. To visit, experience, and appreciate the journey of the Salesian family in Papua New Guinea.

2. To understand and appreciate the Rector Major’s Strenna for 2025.

3. To bring home an experience of youthful prayer, Bosconian joy, and camaraderie.

4. To develop an attitude of charity and service.

   
   

While stating these objectives, Fr. Juna challenged the young participants to make them their personal goals. Fr. Gilbert reminded everyone of their responsibilities during the two-day camp.

The first session on the arrival and history of the Salesians in PNG was facilitated by Fr. Shoji Mathew. It recounted the arrival of the pioneer missionaries and emphasized the mindset shift resulting from 45 years of Salesian presence in Araimiri.

The second talk was given by Sr. Cristina Villasanta, FMA, Superior of the Salesian Sisters in Papua New Guinea. She emphasized the significance of the Jubilee Year, stating: “Amidst all the troubles around us, we anchor our hope in Christ.” She also shared the powerful story of the Servant of God, Chiara Corbella Petrillo - “A Mother's Sacrifice for Her Child”, which deeply moved the participants.

A Vocation Promotion session followed, led by the various congregations: the Salesians of Don Bosco (SDB), the Daughters of Mary Help of Christians (FMA), the Missionary Sisters of Mary Help of Christians (MSMHC), and the Missionary Sisters of the Immaculate (MSI). This session offered insights into consecrated life. The day concluded with a solemn rosary, confessions, and a Goodnight Talk by Fr. Albert.

The next day began with a pilgrimage walk from Don Bosco Araimiri to Mary Help of Christians Parish in Akapiru. The Eucharistic celebration was led by Bishop Pedro Baquero, SDB, Bishop of Kerema, and concelebrated by Fr. Pankaj, Fr. Juna, Fr. Shoji, Fr. Gilbert, Fr. Albert, and Fr. Sylvester.

In his homily, Bishop Pedro emphasized three key messages:

1. Acknowledge the offering and sacrifice of Christ.

2. Participate fully in the Body and Blood of Christ.

3. Live the “Bosco Culture” and continue to serve others.

   
   

He encouraged young people, especially those from Araimiri, Akapiru, and Herehere, to consider priesthood or religious life in response to the 45 years of Salesian presence in the Gulf Province.

Later that evening in Araimiri, during the Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament, Fr. Sylvester, and Fr. Juna presented the Tree of Hope. This was followed by a night of gospel dances, drama, and Marian hymns centered on the theme of hope. Fr. Sylvester closed the day with a call to consider vocations.

On the final morning, Fr. Shoji gave his blessings for the return journey, and all participants left with meaningful memories of the inspiring WANTOK BOSCO 2025 Camp.

The following are some reflections from the participants:

“My journey to Araimiri was more than just travel. It was a refreshing escape. Staying there for three days allowed me to slow down and enjoy the warmth and hospitality of the kind-hearted people of Araimiri, and I felt a deep sense of connection. Their friendly faces made me feel welcome. Walking the journey towards Herehere with the pilgrims gave me a glimpse into my faith, strength, and purpose. It reminded me of the beauty in simplicity and the power of human kindness.” - Lucas Lowaiyo, DBTS

“The camp was so simple and extraordinary. The setting of the place shows how much hope Salesians have for their mission. It created an invitation for more religious vocations.” -Manasseh Hauseng, DBTI

“A very Salesian camp that has made me grateful and faithful to give more to missionary life, especially to the young. So grateful to be an FMA.” - Sr. Carmencita Rodriguez, FMA

“I’ve learnt a lot about teamwork and being responsible for small things. While we had fun, we imbibed life’s lessons. I enjoyed it.” - Enid Banga, DBTI

“The camp taught me valuable lessons about patience, simplicity, and being true to myself. I learned to see Jesus as my shepherd and to open my heart and mind to others. I also felt deeply honoured to be seen as a big sister by some of the boys at camp. It is a special bond I will always cherish.” - Rosella, Mary Help of Christians Parish, Sabama

“This was my best WANTOK BOSCO camp. It was my first time going to Araimiri. I experienced the hardships the Salesians go through to help the communities. Despite the lack of infrastructure, they still go out sharing the goodness of Christ with their enthusiasm, perseverance, and charisma. It was not just a camp, but a formation that taught me about missionary work and prayer. The best part of the camp was the pilgrim walk from Araimiri to Akapiru and then to Herehere. It taught me not to take things for granted but to make the most of the resources provided to me. It was the best spiritual formation I've attended.” - Silas Kombeo Jnr, DBTS

“The Wantok Bosco Camp this year was ADVENTUROUS!!! It was a camp based on the Strenna for this year and was filled with values of friendship and HOPE. The camp helped me bridge a strong connection with God and Mary Help of Christians. I'd love to visit Don Bosco Araimiri again.” - Sheldon Lahis, DBTS

“This experience helped me feel connected to the first Salesian missionaries. Walking their path made me understand their dedication and faith. It showed me how small acts of love and hope can make a big difference. I want to carry on their legacy of caring and unity. I feel truly grateful to be a Bosconian.” - Karisha Kili, DBTI

“The camp was a wonderful experience. I gained much from this experience, one of which is a more focused mindset. The lack of distractions in such a remote place allowed me to think more clearly and reevaluate my life’s goals.” - Scott Binawai, DBTI

“This experience has made me fall deeply in love with Don Bosco. I am very inspired, especially by the dedication, service, and heart of Don Bosco. If more people had a heart like Don Bosco, the world would be a better place to live in.” - Halina Kawas, DBTI