The year 2025 is rich with significant events across different levels. At the Universal Church, the faithful celebrate the Jubilee 2025: Pilgrims of Hope. Within the Salesian Congregation of Don Bosco, the year marks the 150th anniversary of the first Salesian missionary expedition to Patagonia, with the theme: Give Thanks, Rethink, and Relaunch. At the national level, Papua New Guinea celebrates 50 years of Independence, while at the vice-province level of Blessed Philip Rinaldi (PGS), one of its first communities, Don Bosco Araimiri Secondary School (DBASS), commemorates 45 years since the arrival of the first Salesian missionaries to the Gulf Province and to PNG.
It was on June 13, 1980, that Fr. Valeriano Barbero, SDB, Fr. Fernandez, SDB, and Br. Kramar, SDB set foot in Araimiri to begin the Salesian mission among the young people.
On the 210th birth anniversary of our Father and Founder, Don Bosco, DBASS, under the theme “DBASS Journeying Together as Pilgrims of Hope @ 45 & Beyond,” joyfully celebrated its 45th anniversary from August 11–16, 2025, during Don Bosco Week.
The celebration featured a vibrant program of activities, including a Song Competition, Battle of the Bands, Don Bosco Quiz, Treasure Hunt, various sports, a Talent Show, Social Night, Thanksgiving Mass, the Opening and Blessing of new classrooms, a Cultural Show, and a Fraternal Meal.
It was a wonderful week, filled with joy and gratitude. The smiles on everyone’s faces reflected the spirit of family, unity, and hope. Students expressed their pride in being part of the Salesian family, saying: “We are wantok Bosco. Let’s stand together, for we are Bosconians forever, building a better future in hope.”
DBASS expressed heartfelt gratitude to all who made this milestone possible, especially Fr. Gregorio Bicomong, SDB, Provincial Superior of PGS, the Salesians in the Vice-Province, the Governor of Gulf Province, collaborators, benefactors, and the students themselves for their unwavering support and commitment.
As the community looks back with thanksgiving, we also look forward with renewed hope: “Together, we journey ahead, until we celebrate the Golden Jubilee in 2030!”
