DOULOS visited Papua new Guinea for almost 3 month (Feb, March, April) in 2008. Here we got some highlights from the official website www.doulos.org:
Singers, scenery and spears!
25 Feb, 2008 :: Rabaul, Papua New Guinea
What made the Doulos' arrival in Rabaul so special? As the ship sailed into port, crew peering from the exterior decks were awestruck by the incredible display of nature on view. The grey smoke billowing from a nearby volcano stood in contrast to the lush vegetation rolling over the hills. While their eyes took in the sights, crewmembers' ears were treated to the melodic sounds of an assemble of singers gathered on the quayside. Others among the crowd greeting the ship's arrival were dressed in splendid traditional costumes -- spears and all! Crew were left with no doubt that they were entering an area of the world rich in culture. However, one overriding fact made the arrival so special -- the local community's clear delight at having Doulos berth in port. Crew hope to return that warm hospitality by welcoming many visitors on board during the ship's two-week stay.
Practicing in the pool
11 Feb, 2008 :: Lae, Papua New Guinea
"What happens if you fall overboard?" Captain Pat Tracy (USA) questioned the eager trainees joining Doulos. He stood, fully dressed at the pool's edge: "You hit the water with what you've got!" With that Pat fell backwards for a dramatic start to the new recruits' safety training. Equipped with survival at sea equipment, Doulos crew had arrived early at a local facility to prepare for the day of specialised orientation. After everyone successfully practiced putting on a life-jacket and jumping into the water, the final and greatest challenge awaited -- flipping a fully inflated life raft. Fellow trainees cheered from the side as pairs hurled themselves up, and pulled the raft over with their body weight crashing back into the water. Although the new personnel hoped they would never need all they were learning, the experience heightened their anticipation for the fast approaching day when they would join the ship.
Great Greetings!
10 Mar, 2008 :: Kavieng, Papua New Guinea
The welcome began before Doulos even arrived! During the final approach to Kavieng port, small boats packed with cheering well-wishers came alongside the ship. "They're either pirates or the welcome party!" joked Doulos captain Ashley McDonald (Australia). As crew waved in return, the quayside came into view. A colourful multitude awaited there with singers and tambourine dancers adding to the atmosphere of the moment. Once the ship's gangways were secured, Doulos leaders ventured on to the quayside to thank and acknowledge the crowds for the enthusiastic welcome. Crew later learned that the whole spectacle had been far from spontaneous, with the dancers and singers putting in hours of practice beforehand.
Overwhelming opportunities
4 Apr, 2008 :: Port Moresby, PNG
The response to the Doulos visit to Port Moresby has been overwhelming, with large crowds coming on board every day to make the most of the chance to obtain high quality literature, not usually available locally. For many, it's also a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to meet crew and staff members from all over the world! A further highlight is the 'International Night' programme, when ship personnel (many dressed in national costume) perform songs, dances and other items to share their culture and faith with city residents. Some also have a special chance to travel further away from the ship, and live and serve in a more remote setting. As one crewmember reports: "We have no water, no electricity and are living in a hut in the middle of nowhere -- it's great!"
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MV DOULOS in Vanuatu and Fiji 2008by pengsurey1,452 views
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