Introduction

The gathering was held on the 13 – 15th of April at Brown River. The participants were comprised of Association of the Miraculous Medal (AMM) and Vincentian Marian Youth (VMY) members from 14 mile, Laloki, Sabusa, Goldie and Brown River Substations of the Holy Name of Jesus Parish.

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Transport

The arrangements were made by Vincentian Missionaries. A 25-Seat bus from Holy Spirit Seminary picked the members up on Thursday 13^th April and dropped them off on Saturday 15^th April. Fr. J. A. Joseph E. Amith, C.M. also assisted with another vehicle.

Accommodation

All the women and children slept in the Chapel while the men used the mission stage.

Sessions

On the first day, Fr. Marcin Wrobel, C.M. gave a session on St Vincent’s spiritually in the Modern World. This was followed by Fr. Romo Antonius Gigih Julianto, C.M., Indonesian Provincial who was on visit, who talked about the Challenges faced by AMM and VMY in Today’s World.

On the second day, Fr. Joseph Tuan, C.M. gave two sessions on “You Vincentians are Leaders of Today and Tomorrow” and “Vincentian Qualities for Leadership”. They were very helpful and inspiring sessions given to all of us.

Food

The food was provided by the Vincentian Missionaries while the cooking, eating, drinking, utensils were provided by the hosting members. Food preparation, serving and washing up was well organized by the four groups (Simplicity, Humility, Meekness and Mortification). Everyone was satisfied with the quantity and quality of food provided.

Rosary / Holy Mass

Rosary was recited in the chapel and on the way to the river for washing in the morning and afternoon .The Holy Eucharist celebrations were done by the Vincentian priests during the day. All took active participation in them.

Social Activities

On the night of the first day, a video was shown: History/Overview of the Vincentian Family by Fr. Robert Maloney, C.M. On the second day, all enjoyed learning to sing Vincentian Family songs that were composed and taught by Madelyn (VMY). We also took part in sports to exercise our muscles that day.

Finance / Contributions

Each member in the group contributed K10.00 towards the three-day program.

Pastoral Visits

Some AMM members visited and prayed with sick people on the first and second days in the Catholic community in the afternoons.

Evaluation

Members discussed in their four (4) respective groups on the three points:

1. Negative areas on the three days program
2. How to improve our Vincentian Family in Papua New Guinea.
3. Plan the Feast of Prayer for Vocations ( 29^th April)

After discussions, the group leaders reported to the whole group. There were some amendments and general comments given by Fr. Amith and other members for clarification purposes.

Incidents

There was an unexpected incident that happened on the third day when Fr. Amith transported AMM members to and from the river with the intention to be on time for morning Mass. The little incident happened when he rushed to go back to load the second group when the vehicle took off, causing three women to lose their balance and fall down. Luckily they had minor bruises only. After first aid treatment applied by the nurse, they had gained their strength back and felt alright.

Summary

The three-day program was a very fruitful and successful one. A word of appreciation on behalf of all the AMM and VMY to Fr. Amith and the other CM priests for their tireless commitment, time and preparations towards this vital and effective program. Many countless thanks and may God richly bless you in your priestly ministry.

Reports Prepared By Mrs. Mary Mitil and Mrs. Philo Ben, Members of Association of Miraculous Medal