Lots of Events!

When new JVs arrive, second years are asked to put on a "phase-II" orientation in which we offer opportunity to give a more in-depth orientation regarding specific site placements. For Chuuk, this includes myself and the Saramen second years. All of the FSM JVs arrived only 3 weeks or so ago, and time has flown! Here's a little bit of info on things we've done:
1) Gone over some Micronesian Counselors from MicSem and talked about them and culture.
2) Went to an ordination Mass on island. It was originally supposed to be on a Mortlockese island, but was moved to Weno. Coolest moment was seeing the ordinand being processed in by his family after the homily and then afterwards listening to some good singing from youth groups (Tonoas did great).
3) 50th anniversary of Sr. Faustina's vows. It was a bit hectic getting there, but it was a splendid event. The Mass lasted two hours, after starting a few hours late (typical), and was filled with beautiful singing and an unexpectedly large amount of local food.
4) The 16th was the 1 year anniversary of my host father's death (I had never actually met him). It was difficult to tell if it was a particularly sad event or just a simple time to remember him. I know it was difficult for at least a few members of my family. After the lunch offered, I got to spend the night with my family (two nights actually). It was nice (for me at least) to learn a little more Chuukese and spend time with everyone and a few new family members who came in for the anniversary.

In other news, the school week starts in just over a week on the 31st!