THE floating book fair MV Doulos Hope has docked at East New Britain’s (ENB) Rabaul wharf for its inaugural visit after departing Port Moresby, with the purpose of spreading knowledge, help and hope.
Eighteen years after its sister ship, MV Doulos, visited ENB in 2008, another Doulos vessel has arrived to provide an opportunity for the public to visit the book fair and participate in various programmes during its stay.
MV Doulos Hope arrived on Monday and will remain in the province for two weeks, open to the public from June 3 -14.
It will depart for Kavieng afterwards.
A K3 entry fee applies, with children under 12 years and elderly persons over 65 granted free entry.
An official opening ceremony was held on board the ship on Wednesday, where provincial leaders welcomed the MV Doulos Hope team as they prepared to embark on their mission to bring knowledge, help and hope to the ENB community.
The visit also aims to promote cultural exchange, with a multicultural crew engaging with local communities.
Reflecting on Rabaul’s history, MV Doulos Hope director Trizenia September said the people of Rabaul embodied perseverance and resilience, qualities the team hoped to strengthen through its outreach work.
September said that at the centre of their mission was honouring God, who was the source of their service.
“A big part of our heart is to come and encourage the people of Rabaul to continue rebuilding—to share and to find hope in everyday life, and also in what future development may look like during the rebuilding process,” she said.
“MV Doulos Hope, meaning “servant of God,” represents the mission of the volunteers on board the ship,” September said.
Representing the ENB Governor and provincial government, Rabaul town mayor Timothy Biang welcomed the team and expressed enthusiasm for the ship’s visit.
“It is a great honour and privilege for us to receive a vessel that has become known as a symbol of hope, knowledge, service and friendship among nations,” Biang said.
MV Doulos Hope captain Eymard Calibjo said they hoped communities would visit the book fair and build relationships through cultural exchange, conversation, and service.
