Doulos docks in Kavieng
MV DOULOS, the world’s largest floating bookshop, was officially opened to the public in Kavieng, New Ireland province last Thursday.
The ship will be in the province until next Tuesday.
Local leaders, church members and those involved with Doulos’ visit to Kavieng were invited on board to witness the official opening of the long-anticipated book fair.
New Ireland Governor Sir Julius Chan attended as the guest of honour to welcome Doulos and cut the ribbon, officially opening the book fair to the public.
Speaking about the ship’s arrival and welcome in Kavieng, Capt Ashley McDonald said: “The welcome was very special. We sailed through the reef passage, at about 5am last Wednesday. As we came, we saw boats crossing in front of the ship, and I looked through my binoculars and they were full of people.
“I said, they must be pirates who get up very early in the morning or they are the welcome party, including a whole choir in the middle of the harbour.
“As we came alongside, there was tremendous singing, dancing and traditional singsing.
“It was the most hearwarming and moving welcome I ever saw in all my time with Doulos ministry.
“Thanks to everyone. We are humbled by the effort you went through to make us feel welcome.”
He said the crew hoped within the 12 days in New Ireland to learn the culture and history of the province.
Director Edward David said this was the second visit of Doulos to Kavieng and he had the privilege to be there both times.
“This is our third port in our five-port-visit to Papua New Guinea and we are very blessed by your hospitality, friendliness and generosity.”
Sir Julius said it was both a privilege and an honour to be invited on board.
“This is a once in a lifetime opportunity to enter the floating bookshop, which otherwise would not be available to us on our own doorstep.
“Through the Malagan Declaration, 2008 is the year of education.
“You talk about knowledge. Knowledge is power,” he said.
“We are harnessing this opportunity to fund our schools and even churches with up to K50,000 to secure appropriate books that would be relevant to their needs.
“I want to thank each one of you from Doulos for coming to New Ireland.
“I am convinced that it will open up new beginnings for our people, young and old, as they explore opportunities from the bookshop and their interactions with the community of nations,” Sir Julius said.
Nation Stories