English 
Let us always remember that charity is the paradise of the community. M. Dones
Ruminating these words of Mother Dones, we the sisters were filled with drizzles of joy and bubbling life as the long awaited day unfolded with its charming countenance on May 8th. It was a fabulous day for MSIs as we launch our new presence at Araimiri in Kerema Diocese.
It is amazing to witness how MSI has grown step by step over the three decades in PNG and has reached another milestone in our journey by opening a new community in the remote area of Gulf Province.
As the celebration drew near the Parish Church at Araimiri stood shining with all its grandeur and hue. A euphoric melody saturated the entire milieu. The solemn Eucharistic celebration was presided over by Bishop of Kerema , Peter Baquero SDB along with the Salesian community Fr Shoji, Fr Heraldo, Fr Joseph and Fr Gilbert. They were led to the altar of God by the students with their spectacular traditional dances, followed by an apt introduction by Sr Bridgit Suvakeen with the significance of the day. His grace in his homily highlighted to be charged with the power of the Holy Spirit to move the hearts of the people and he applauded the sisters for our willingness to work hand in hand with Salesian community mainly in the field of pastoral and taking care of the boarding girls. The melodious choir led by Bro Sylvester and diverse cultural dances added flavour and vitality to the Eucharistic celebration.
During the mass the newly formed community members Sr Elizabeth, Sr Shephali and Sr Shanty received special blessings from the bishop as he extended his hands and prayed over us and he exhorted the local community to take care of the sisters and support them.
After the Holy Eucharist the priests, invited guests, sisters, staff and students were led by Simbu and Baimuru dancers with their rhythmic movements to the portal of Mother Dones Convent.
After which the Shepherd of the Diocese Bp Peter, Sr Mary Cheekkanllel, the Delegate Superior and Sr Elizabeth Joseph, the community leader cut the multi-coloured ribbons instantaneously followed by the blessings of the house. With standing ovation the gathering welcomed the opening and blessing of the convent building.
Today we want to make our foundress present, to listen again her simple words, and to feel the heartbeat of her heart as we titled our convent after her name Mother Dones. 51 years ago, on 8th May Mother Giuseppina Dones left us for her journey towards the heavenly abode. Her heart was inflamed by the missionary torment, the living passion to proclaim God’s Kingdom to all peoples. This was the dream of her dreams; to sow the seeds of the Gospel to the peripheries. Therefore on this remarkable day her dream has actualized and it is befitting to open a new presence in the periphery of Kerema where handful of religious working in this diocese. Today as we glimpse we feel elated to see that our mission has grown leaps and bounds in PNG with many local vocations and 8 communities.
The very presence of the guests, our sisters from Port Moresby, Caritas sisters and MC Sisters added delight and pomp to the ceremony. The sumptuous meal enhanced the bond of unity with the community and one another. With a contented heart all dispersed rejoicing in the Lord for His myriads of blessings on our family and mission.
Sr Shanty Joseph, Araimiri, Papua Nuova Guinea
