Catholics end retreat with high hopes

SIXTEEN participants to a retreat and planning workshop organised by the Catholic Professional Society of Papua New Guinea are eager to use what they learnt to work through their personal resolutions.
The purpose of the programme was to spend time in reflection, prayer and discussion.
President Paul Harricken said the society had been mandated and established by the Catholic Bishops Conference of PNG and the Solomon Islands as a laity-based group of professionals in all walks of life.
It was not only to promote and defend the Catholic faith but also to be a voice for those who were not able to speak up or act on issues and matters which affected their everyday lives.
The participants said they were now more energised, empowered and inspired.
With faith, hope and love, the participants resolved to work through their personal resolutions.
The participants emphasised how best they could bring about a change involving themselves, to reach out and promote Christian values, especially to the poor, and promote their Catholic faith.
Catholic Bishop Conference general-secretary Fr Victor Roche said CPS had to be the voice of the church.
Crucifixes were presented to each participant as a symbol of initiation, incorporation and commissioning to return to their families and ensure that Christ was alive in their lives.
The participants were led through meditation, reflections and spiritual exercises by CBC secretary for communications and youth Fr Ambrose Pereira.