The Rector will bring you close to Jesus

Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea – Don Bosco Technical School, Gabutu, began the academic year with a solemn celebration of the Holy Spirit Mass, coinciding with the Feast of Saint John Bosco the next day and the installation of the school’s new Rector, Fr. Ambrose Pereira, SDB.

Fr Ambrose Giving a Sermon.

The Mass opened with a fitting introduction to the mass from Ms. Joanne before the members of the Salesian Community of Don Bosco Gabutu, the Missionary Sisters of Mary Help of Christians, staff, and students. The feast of Saint John Bosco served as a reminder to all to remain joyful, kind, and ready to help one another, especially the young.

In his homily, Fr. Gregorio Bicomong Jr., SDB, Provincial Superior of the Blessed Philip Rinaldi Vice Province of Papua New Guinea, Solomon Islands, and Vanuatu, emphasized the Rector’s role as a shepherd who leads his community closer to God. “The Rector will bring all of you closer to Jesus,” he declared, underscoring that the most important mission in a Don Bosco school is the salvation of souls.

Fr. Gregorio challenged the newly appointed Rector to guide the community with faith and compassion, reminding Salesian priests, brothers, sisters, and educators that their mission extends beyond academic excellence. “Not only A’s in subject performance, but A’s in growing in faith and having a close relationship with God,” he said.

He also highlighted three key articles from the Constitution of the Society of St. Francis de Sales:

• Article 176: The Rector is responsible for his religious life, apostolic activities, and administration.

• Article 44: The Rector must be a promoter of dialogue and teamwork.

• Article 55: The Rector represents Christ and is the center of the community.

Following the Litany of Saints, Fr. Gregorio officially installed Fr. Ambrose Pereira, SDB, who recited his oath and was warmly welcomed by the school community with applause.

The church within the school campus, once graced by the historic visit of St. John Paul II in 1995 was enveloped in a profound atmosphere of prayer and reflection. As the Holy Mass enfolded, everyone present responded with devotion, their voices rising together in unity. The songs echoed through the walls with an uplifting resonance. And the students assigned to do the readings proclaimed with clarity and reverence.

“I feel energized by the spirit and ready for the school year 2026,” shared Mr. Goloba Mavara, IT Support Staff.

In his closing remarks, Fr. Ambrose expressed gratitude to the congregation and encouraged educators, staff, and students to embrace honesty, collaboration, and faith as guiding principles for the year ahead. “Together with you, we will work to ensure honesty and collaboration among educators, students, and parents, and we will all rise together,” he affirmed.

The celebration concluded with refreshments and fellowship, marking a joyful beginning to the academic year 2026.