In the Diocese of Gizo in the Solomon Islands the isolation and remoteness of parishes from the diocesan centre makes it virtually impossible for the people living in the villages to come to the Holy Door at the cathedral.

So the pastoral team of the diocese, led by Bishop Luciano Capelli, thought of a mobile Holy Door.

In two months, the Holy Door has gone to the most remote islands and villages of the diocese. Its pilgrimage ended on May 9th.

In each of the 14 stations visited there was a level of participation in the liturgy never seen before.

The programme was carried out in almost the same way in every village.

The Warriors of the village officially welcomed the Holy Door.

This was followed by a liturgy over a period of three days to present the meaning of the Jubilee.

It included a prayer vigil in preparation for the sacrament of reconciliation, and then a dialogue of reconciliation between people and groups in conflict.

"The priests were surprised by the participation and goodwill experienced in a real climate of mercy," said Capelli.

"It is beautiful when people are able to forgive and start afresh... mistakes and conflicts can become moments of encounter and growth if approached with an open heart, with faith and generosity."

Source

• wantokniuspepa.com
• Image: infoans.org

The diocese covers an area with close to one hundred islands spread over 300km of sea.

Its 70 year old wooden vessel, the St Peter, has outlived its useful life, and its continued use is not economically sustainable.

So the Diocese has purchased a 14 meter steel ex-fishing trawler to replace St Peter.

The vessel has been named Galilee.

The purchase is being funded through donations.

Donations can be made on Give a Little.

A New Zealand Mahitahi Catholic overseas volunteer, Doug Buchan, who carried out an engineering and electrical overhaul of St Peter, is now assisting this project.

Volunteer Gordon Banfield says "This is a major project and should bring long term service to many in the islands of Gizo Diocese."

"Whilst we seek additional funding we also ask for prayerful support for this project."

Galilee was built in 1964 and is fitted with an old English Gardner diesel engine which is in good condition and runs like clockwork.

It is being fitted out at Opua in Northland.

There is still some work to do to get it ready for the trip to Gizo.

The vessel needed to be hauled from the water and cleaned and repainted.

A new alternator, a range of spare parts, essential safety equipment and fuel for the delivery voyage are still needed.

The voyage to Gizo from New Zealand is 2300 nautical miles.

With a service speed of 7 knots, the ship is expected to arrive there sometime in August.

Source

• solomonstarnews.com
• givealittle.co.nz