Proposal for lay mission educators

The Don Bosco Educational System (DBES) in Papua New Guinea and the Solomon Islands have proposed to introduce a common Salesianity Formation for their lay mission educators around Port Moresby.
This suggestion was raised by Sr Mazzarello Choi, in the recent DBES meeting held at Don Bosco Technical Institute-Chimbu late last year.
In response to this call, on Jan 24 and Jan 25, the first Common Salesianity Formation was organised, made possible through the efforts of Fr Ariel Macatangay, who spearheaded the event.
It was attended by almost 120 participants from different Salesian schools such as Don Bosco Technical Secondary School, Don Bosco Technical Institute, Don Bosco Technical Institute (Vunasbosco), and Caritas Business College.
The presented topics revolved around the core principles of the Preventive System of Don Bosco.
These encompassed a diverse range, including Salesian animating presence, the spirituality of the playground presented by Fr Shoji, the application of Reason in the Preventive System in the context of discipline for both staff and students by Fr Pedro Sachitula, an exploration of the historical text and context of the Preventive System and its connection to the vocation dreams of Don Bosco by Fr Greg Bicomong, and a deep dive into the Five Elements of Salesian Youth Spirituality by Fr Ariel Macatangay.
Dean of Studies at DB Technical Institute, Delsie Maulangi, said: “The Salesianity Formation sessions made me reflect on how I can provide a supportive and compassionate approach in guiding and nurturing those entrusted to my care.
“These could include having empathy, kindness, and genuine care in fostering personal growth and creating a positive environment of being a presence that inspires trust and encourages the young (students) to reach their full potential.”
Head of electrical department at Don Bosco Technical School, Edward Tokuau, said: “From what I have learned that among the three pillars of the preventive system of Don Bosco, ‘reason’ is what I have been practising as a Salesian educator.
“However, after listening to the four topics given to us, I realised that it is much effective to practice all three: reason, religion, and loving kindness.”