Students promise not to engage in sex until marriage

CATHOLIC students from the Divine Word University have promised not to engage in sex until marriage.
The students made the promise during a spiritual retreat for the Catholic students on Feb 23, at the Divine Word University Chapel in Madang.
Bernadette Tefe and seven men boldly committed themselves to “Live Pure” and celebrate the sacrament of marriage before they engage in sexual intimacy.
About 280 Catholic students spent a fruitful weekend, (Feb 21-23), in prayer, reflection and the celebration of their Catholic faith as participants of the spiritual retreat.
The retreat’s theme “Giving Generously” and was animated by Fr Ambrose Pereira, who is the social communications secretary for the Catholic Bishops Conference. The opening session and the reflective film “War Room” was held at the Sir Peter Barter auditorium. The beautiful setting set the tone for the retreat.
“It gave the participants an insight into the power of prayer and the need for forgiveness,” Stephanie Kungka and Valerie Maragau said.
A touching moment was when a recently married Cyril and Raunu Sarsorua shared their story of love and commitment.
“I told Cyril that I will give myself to him only on after we have received the sacrament of marriage,” Raunu said. She said Cyril agreed to the proposal and promised his respect and protection. The couple had spent the last few years studying in Poland and were now lecturers at DWU.