Communities from zones 5 & 6 of Dala parish had dual celebrations during the past weekend to mark the feast day of St. Luke the patron of Rufoki church in West Fataleka and at the same time to commemorate the 30th anniversary of the Catholic Diocese of Auki.
The Diocese of Auki was founded in 1984 and this year celebrations had been organized at different times at the ten parishes around Malaita.
Villagers, youth groups and visitors arrived at the host venue, Rufoki on Friday 17th and and Saturday 18th October. A fundraiser by various youth groups held on Saturday evening to start off the celebrations.
Bishop Chris Cardone arrived at Rufoki on Sunday morning 19th October and celebrated Eucharist to mark the two occasions. Assisting the bishop are Fr. Vaioleti Tuione parish priest of Dala, Fr. Valu Siua, Deacon Sam Maetara and Brother Paulo Daniel staff members of St. John’s Secondary school at Dala.
Seventeen young people received first Holy Communion during the mass.
During his sermon Bishop Chris challenged the community of Rufoki to live the life of their patron, St Luke the Evangelist. He also stressed out the importance of doing personal and family prayers.
Before closing his sermon the bishop summarizes a pastoral letter he sent to all parishes throughout Auki diocese in which he advised every one to pray for good and caring leaders and vote wisely in the coming elections.
After the morning mass, there was feasting, speeches, dancing and other entertainments as part of the celebrations.
Among the invited guests is Honourable Bernard R. Uguni provincial member for ward five. Hon. Bernard revealed that he was very happy with the organization of the event. “It was well organized. Cooperation and participation among communities and different denominations within ward 5 is very encouraging” he said.
He added the weekend’s event was the first peaceful one in the area as there were no disturbances or distractions and so everyone had an enjoyable experience together as one people.
Performances by the Rain Bow Boys brought much excitement to the occasion from the start on Saturday evening and ending the celebrations at 5pm on Sunday before returning to Auki.
Chairman of the organizing committee Mr. Ben Rainao thanked Dala parish priest Fr. Vaioleti for having the trust on Rufoki community to host the 30th anniversary of the catholic diocese of Auki.
The chairman also acknowledged participating communities, youth groups, catechists, leaders and Rufoki community for their huge support and contribution to towards the celebrations, which ended successfully.
By William Toli
