You who healed the sick and comforted the afflicted,
You who showed us the Father’s infinite mercy and compassion,
You who gave your life for our salvation,
hear now our prayer on this World Day of the Sick.
To you we entrust those who suffer in body, mind or spirit.
Grant them your grace, give them strength, console them with your peace,
and sustain them with the hope that comes from your resurrection.
To you we entrust those who care for the sick and the elderly.
We remember the doctors, nurses, volunteers and family members who give of themselves that others may find healing and rest.
Bless them for their generous service and selfless love,
protect them from harm and fatigue,
let them know the goodness they bring into the world.
To you we entrust the leaders of nations and those in the scientific community
who work together for the common good of humanity.
We pray that they may work towards a world in which everyone has access to health care:
That they may promote a culture of solidarity and fraternity,
that overcomes the scourges of illness, poverty and violence.
To you we entrust ourselves, through the intercession of Mary.
We pray that we may work to give comfort to the afflicted,
to follow your example of love and service,
to be faithful witnesses of your Gospel in the world,
to share in your glory in heaven.
Gtpministries.org – “From here, we can learn about the formation of a dynamic identity, open to always being challenged, and what must be remembered is that this identity is built on a mission and mission to reach many people …”
It has been FIFTY years since the Indonesian Province of the Society of Jesus was founded. The presence of the Jesuits in Indonesia has provided many treasures for the development and formation of the Catholic Church. The Jesuit apostolic spirit, which carries Ignatian spirituality developed by Saint Ignatius Loyola, also helps to show every person one way to God.
Province B was founded
In the writings of Father F. Suryanto Hadi, SJ and Father Bambang Alfred Sipayung, SJ regarding the history of the Society of Jesus Province of Indonesia (SJ Provindo), it is written that on a special day of the Church, namely the Feast of the Birth of the Blessed Virgin Mary, 8 September 1971, the General Leader of SJ who came from Rome, Father Pedro Arrupe, SJ in a simple event at Wisma Syantikara, Yogyakarta, inaugurated the establishment of SJ Provindo. Father Arrupe continued the efforts of his predecessor, Father Johannes Baptista Janssens, SJ, who 15 years earlier, on February 4 1956, separated Missio Javensis from its “mother” Nederland Province into an independent vice-province , this time with the name “Indonesia” instead of the name “Java” and prepared to become an independent province.
It is recorded that since 1967 the leadership of SJ has been held by an Indonesian himself, Father Antonius Soenarja, SJ. He was also appointed the first provincial. In a letter after attending a meeting of SJ provincial leaders in Taiwan in 1970, Father Soenarja wrote this, “We sincerely admit that our province is a province that is poor in wealth, but our hope is in the amazing results of work and in the number of our vocations, which simply guarantees the future.”
Hopefully that’s the case. One of the forces that convinced Father Arrupe to establish this province was the number of members. In 1956, the Indonesian Vice Province had 244 Jesuit members, consisting of 139 priests, 78 scholastics and 27 brothers. Of that number, less than 40% are Indonesian Jesuits, namely 97 Jesuits. In 1971, the newly inaugurated province had 333 members with a composition of 176 Indonesian Jesuits and 157 Missionary Jesuits. Therefore, in the decree establishing the province, Father Arrupe wrote that unlike in many other places where the number of members began to decline, in Indonesia it actually experienced an increase “and of that number, the majority were born in this country.”
The presence of the Society of Jesus in the archipelago can be traced into two parts. First, the arrival of Father Francis Xavier in Maluku in 1546 which was followed by a wave of Jesuit presence from Portugal and Spain until 1677. During those 130 years, there were 81 members of the Society of Jesus who worked in the Maluku Mission. Second, the arrival of Dutch missionaries in 1859 through people such as Father Martinus van den Elzen and Father Joannes Baptista Palinkxs. It was the arrival of Dutch missionaries that later produced the Indonesian Jesuits, and ultimately the Indonesian Province of the Society of Jesus.
Searching for Meaning
After being established for 50 years as a province, the Indonesian Province of Jesus Society felt the need to explore the memory, meaning and significance of important events or periods in Provindo’s history which helped shape Provindo’s “character”. Chairman of the Commemoration Committee for the Ignatian Year and 50 Years of Provindo, Father A. Bagus Laksana, SJ said, to support this need, a study and research team was formed involving nine lecturers and 17 Jesuit brothers from STF Driyarkara, Sanata Dharma University, Faculty of Wedabhakti Theology, including brothers from Myanmar and Thailand. “Provindo’s history is a rich reality, where the Spirit of God works not in an empty space but in and through various historical events, social movements, institutional decisions, and the construction of individual and collective consciousness. “This research is almost complete and there are many interesting things from our findings,” said Father Bagus.
Father Bagus explained this interesting finding, for example, as follows. Provindo was once anxious about Indonesian identity, until aspirations for “Indonesianization” emerged which gave rise to tensions between missionary Jesuits from the Netherlands and native Jesuits in the 1960s. This tension did end in reconciliation and change, in which native Jesuits increasingly played an important role. However, this solution also turned out to be temporary. In the next stage, it appears that what is meant by “Indonesianization” is more “Javanization.” Provindo has not yet truly realized its fuller “Indonesianness”.
Furthermore, in Provindo’s mission in East Timor, the identity of “Indonesia” itself became problematic and contested, and the Indonesian Jesuits there had to understand Indonesianness in new and difficult ways. This identity is also enriched by the involvement of Indonesian Jesuits in several regions of Asia, such as Cambodia, Thailand, Myanmar and Japan. “From here, we can learn about the formation of a dynamic identity, open to always being challenged, and what must be remembered is that this identity is built on a mission and mission to reach many people, not like today’s identity politics,” said the priest who was once sent to Timor Timur when he was still a brother.
Apart from great learning, Father Bagus continued, studies and research also found many interesting stories of the Jesuits’ struggle. There are lonely Jesuit missionaries who see no future in Tanjung Sakti, South Sumatra; there was a Jesuit who had to be a truck driver in East Timor; there was a Jesuit who had to move with students on the streets, there were testimonies of Jesuit “martyrs” in East Timor, and so on. In various crisis events in this nation, such as the opinion polls in Timor Leste, the 1998 Reformation, as well as natural disasters in Aceh and the Ambon conflict, the apostolic spirit of the Indonesian Jesuits did not fade. Provindo is always ready to respond to a crisis. Crisis is a field of engagement and learning. “The Society of Jesus’ response may never be perfect, but it is clear that there is always a readiness to respond and then learn,” stressed Father Bagus.
Meanwhile, during research and studies, it was discovered that Provindo has a distinctive attitude called “discretive realism”. This is the attitude behind Provindo’s involvement in difficult events and periods of crisis. With the spirit of discreet realism, the Jesuits look at and grapple with any reality (reality), not being afraid or paralyzed by the complexity and complexity of that reality, but continuing to look for the most realistic way to respond to real situations, while continuing to be open to looking for better, understanding the current situation. constantly changing, and trusting that Allah is working and guiding.
Getting More Involved
History also proves that the involvement of the Society of Jesus, although not dramatic, is very real. Father Bagus explained this as follows. First , dialogue with religion and culture has always bothered Jesuits, starting from missionaries who were influenced by the orientalist approach and carried out textual studies such as Father Petrus Josephus Zoetmulder, SJ and now with a more dialogical, pedagogical and institutional approach and paradigm carried out by many Jesuits and Provindo’s work. Before there were issues of fundamentalism and religious-based identity politics, Provindo already had a commitment in this area.
Petrus Josephus Zoetmulder, SJ
Second , the work of education and formation of young people, development of philosophy-theology, formation of prospective priests and religious, spiritual and pastoral services of the Church, and social services, community and humanitarian empowerment. In all these fields, Provindo is involved with all the creativity that continues to be pursued amidst changing times.
Through services in all these fields, explained Father Bagus, Provindo is more deeply rooted in the journey of Indonesian society than in 1971 when Provindo was inaugurated. However, we also realize that there are many new challenges. Several Jesuit institutions no longer exist, for example the Jakarta Social Institute which was once very well known to the public. Of course Provindo needs to think about new initiatives. Jesuit colleges and schools developed with various initiatives within the framework of Ignatian pedagogy; Likewise, Sanata Dharma University developed as a university with various new faculties and study programs. New challenges to provide more inclusive and transformative education continue to exist. However, this is also accompanied by gratitude for the existence of new initiatives and creativity in other fields, for example forms of service and propagation of spirituality to the laity, pastoral and educational work in Papua and Kalimantan, as well as mission in various regions of Asia. “Furthermore, we will discuss the results of our study in the monthly Webinar series (October 2021-July 2022),” he added.
As a conclusion from the research carried out, Father Bagus explained that there were three important areas to learn from Provindo’s history to move forward, namely identity, mission and reconciliation. Provindo’s identity must become more inclusive and expansive, embracing many new things and elements. Missions must be increasingly collaborative and sensitive to others (those who are different). Ultimately, this identity and mission are directed at reconciliation efforts, namely being involved in building a complete life in a torn and unjust society, and being a bearer of hope for those who seek the meaning of life and who are alienated from the universe as a common home.
***
Father A. Bagus Laksana, SJ
Chairman of the Commemoration Committee of the Ignatian Year and 50 Years of Provindo Involving Other People
“I was especially moved by the collaboration and togetherness in responding to God’s call. The mission of the Society of Jesus, which was started by Ignatius and his friends, turned out to be a mission involved by many people, from time to time. The idea of a “shared mission” is very real. The Society of Jesus was once disbanded (1773), but when it was rebuilt the Society grew with a new spirit and way, trying to be more spiritually deep, humble and involve other people, including sending missionaries to the archipelago. Throughout history, the United States, including the Province of Indonesia (Provindo) which was founded in 1971, has shared a vision of God who invites every human being to have friendship with Him, as well as a vision of this life, of the future, and inviting people to consider what they want. we can do something together to respond to the times.
The celebration of the Ignatian Year occurred during the pandemic, where I had more time to reflect and reflect on my personal vocational journey so far. God calls in ways that are often less understandable at the time, but have very real consequences over time. This call places me in the worldwide network of the Society of Jesus. I was invited to combine my limited experiences and involvement in various regions of Indonesia, Timor Leste, the United States and Asia in a life journey that was exciting, expansive and full of grace. I am grateful for the development of the Indonesian Province of Jesus Christ Society which is always looking for creative ways to respond to various challenges in the archipelago, Asia and beyond. I had not imagined all this when I entered the Society of Jesus in 1992.”
Eight international Jesuit scholastics received diaconal ordination from the Archbishop of Madrid, Cardinal Carlos Osoro, on February 5, 2022, at 18.00 local time at the Church of SS Francis Xavier and Aloysius Gonzaga, Mártires de la Ventilla, Madrid. The eight new deacons are Leonargo Angius (Italy), José Castillo (Spain), Savio Fernández (India), Paulus Hastra Kurdani (Indonesia), Antranik Kurukian (Lebanon), Cristiano Laino (Italy), Michael N Manalastas (USA), and Joan Morera (Spain). These eight deacons are studying theology at the Pontifical Comillas University, Madrid. Due to the pandemic, the series of ordination events were held on a limited basis according to the regulations set by the Spanish health authorities. Many family members and relatives of the ordained deacons were unable to attend due to official restrictions and procedures from the local government, including the family of Brother Dani from Indonesia who was unable to attend. Only a few scholastics who were studying there could support and congratulate Brother Dani. The following is a short video link from the series of ordination events.
In his homily, Cardinal Carlos highlighted the 500th anniversary of the conversion of Saint Ignatius of Loyola. This conversion is a process with four important moments in Ignatius’ life, namely wound, repentance, holiness, and mission. Of all his personal experiences, he made Jesus Christ the center. He truly saw and listened to Him in every situation and served to the best of his ability. Cardinal Carlos recounts the experience of St. Ignatius while speaking with the eight new deacons who have been ordained in the Ignatius family. He invited the eight deacons to love and serve God by becoming closer to His people. When reading from the Gospel of Luke about Peter and his friends who were helped by Jesus while fishing, Cardinal Carlos also encouraged the ordained deacons to dare to go deeper into themselves and go further to serve others. He closed his homily by inviting the eight deacons to dare to listen and live according to God’s word. “Be brave like St. “Ignatius who dared to face all circumstances and obstacles,” he concluded.
The entire celebration of the deacon’s ordination was accompanied by simple but solemn music performed by an Italian scholastic, Andrea Bonavita. The songs and music are arranged in various languages such as Italian, Indian, Indonesian and Lebanese. At the end of the event, Brother Dani expressed his joyful and grateful words to Cardinal Carlos, all the coordinators of this celebratory event, and all the faithful who attended. After deacon ordination, these eight people must complete their studies at Comillas within the next four months. After their studies are complete, they usually return to their home province to carry out a new mission from their respective Provincial Fathers.
“What will we do during Lent?” This is a question we often ask ourselves. The answer often comes down to simply doing what we did last year or even what we did when we were kids!
Below are some ideas to make Lent different this year.
“In this season of Lent, we are invited to take the opportunity to connect with Ignatian spirituality and deepen our pilgrimage of faith by using the new Jesuit Pilgrimage application,” said Father John Dardis SJ, Director of the Roman Curia’s Communications Bureau. “Week after week, we are invited to revisit different Ignatian places through “Travel Miles.”
“Travel Miles” takes us to a different place each week of Lent. Pamplona, Loyola, Paris, and Venice and Rome. Week after week, we can enjoy an easy-to-use platform that animates the above places with stunning audiovisual and historical content. Let God himself reach us!
The following is an overview.
Pamplona. A flashback of Saint Ignatius being wounded by a cannonball fragment changed the course of his life. Where can our lives change for the better? How do we bring new dreams?
Loyola. Immerse yourself in a spiritual experience at the Saint Ignatius family home and let God touch you in new ways.
Paris. Experience the city where Saint Ignatius learned to better serve God and the Church. What do we need to learn and how can we grow to serve better?
Venice. This is where the Jesuits first met and studied together. Who are the friends we can trust and discuss with?
Rome. End your Lenten journey by exploring the city where so many Jesuits were sent to apostolate. What is our mission? Where will God lead us?
“The app is available in English, French, Spanish and Italian,” said Father Vivian Richard, SJ, app project director. “We’re working hard to bring out Korean and Vietnamese versions, and who knows how many more will follow. This app is not only a tourist experience but also a modern spiritual practice.”
For that, we can take part in two ways:
a. Sit back and download the app straight away. After that, travel in style, then we share the experience on social media with the hashtag #TravelMiles then tag Instagram @jesuitglobal and @jesuitindonesia.
b. If you’re lucky enough and you’re in one of the places above, take a selfie and share it on social media with the hashtag #LentWithIgnatius. If we have been there before, just upload a photo with the hashtag #LentWithIgnatius then tag it on Instagram @jesuitglobal and @jesuitindonesia.
Please download the Jesuit Pilgrimage app from the App Store or Google Play and special notifications will be sent weekly immediately. We just need to activate the notifications!
Begin your pilgrimage on Ash Wednesday, February 14, 2024. Join and let the adventure begin!
Celebration of the 102nd anniversary of Kanisius Printing-Publishing and the 10th anniversary of PT Kanisius
For Kanisius people (the name for employees of the Yogyakarta Kanisius Printing Company) January is a month full of blessings and full of joyful smiles. How not to be full of smiles, January is the moment to celebrate the birthday of Kanisius Printing, which in 2024 will fall on Friday, January 26. There are various series of activities that have been prepared by the committee to enliven the birthday. This year Kanisius Printing Press has entered its 102nd year. Of course, as one of the works of the Indonesian Province of Jesus Society, this is a blessing that must be grateful for, in the midst of the uncertainty of the ‘business’ world of books and printing, Kanisius is still continuing to take steps to collaborate with many parties.
Gratitude−Humility−Generous
There are several routine events that are always held before the peak of the event, this year there are two routine events that attract the attention of Kanisius people. The evening of reflection and appreciation was an interesting first event to take part in. Accompanied by Father P. Sunu Hardiyanto, SJ, all Kanisius people were invited to look back at the dynamics of life – whether at work or in the family – throughout life. There are three key words taught by Father Sunu to dare to be grateful.
The purpose of reflecting on work is to be grateful, lively, and further build a collaborative spirit. Kanisius people are invited to be grateful for being called to be involved in service through PT Kanisius. In the midst of this uncertain situation, finding work is certainly not an easy thing. Moreover, competition in the business world is far beyond predictions. Kanisius people are invited to remember the purpose of work and be grateful for God’s grace, that they can enjoy working at Kanisius.
Participants were also invited to be grateful for the works at Kanisius as a form of support for Missio Dei collaborators . More concretely, Kanisius was invited by Father Sunu to live an inspiring life. That each Kanisius person has various life experiences, some at the top, some at the bottom. It is precisely from this diversity of experiences that Kanisius people are invited to live increasingly inspiring lives. The key words that the participants taught by Father Sunu were: having a sense of gratitude, if we are able to be grateful, we will become more humble individuals. If we are able to be humble individuals, we will be more generous.
Collaboration
According to the Big Indonesian Dictionary (KBBI) ko.la.bo.ra.si n (action) cooperation n (action) working together to make something. This collaborative action cannot be carried out by just one party. This collaborative action must be carried out together by all parties to create a life that inspires each other. Collaboration can be done internally, synergizing between departments in one workplace. Also done externally, in collaboration with parties outside the workplace, for the same vision.
“Discretion, working together and working with networks are three important perspectives for the way we act today. Because the Union is “an international and multicultural body,” existing in a complex world, “fragmented and divided” (KJ 35). This quote from KJ 35 feels like it remains actual to do and realize, even in the midst of today’s complex world. The process of collaborating does not just come naturally, but through the twists and turns of a long and risky journey. To collaborate requires discretion, cooperation, and networks to act according to the vision.
Reaching Inspiration
At more than 100 years old, PT Kanisius continues to want to share inspiration with more and more people. The word stretch was chosen to describe the seriousness of collaborating with other parties who have the same vision. We continue to echo the inspiration to make a real contribution to the nation and state, in line with the spirit of our founders.
Inspiration will resonate more if we dare to build networks. Networking helps generate new ideas, makes a leader more creative and more able to work together, so that work and tasks can be carried out more effectively. This network is directed to achieve goals, not for the sake of the network itself, so spiritual discernment is needed.
This article is the result of a reflection of our views as ‘interested’ parties. Initially, we came as guests who were ‘forced’ to get involved because of a demand within the organization that houses us, KEMANT UGM. However, it was this interest that ultimately brought us to know a valuable ‘acceptance’ from the Realino SPM family. We feel that this family was formed because of a calling rooted in love and a desire to serve. It is this call that Realino continues to uphold as a principle, obedience and commitment from year to year.
It was no coincidence that the Anthropology Student Family (KEMANT UGM) was introduced to one of the volunteers from Realino SPM. He is the head of our own organization. If it is indeed a coincidence, then this coincidence is worth celebrating. In this article, we will focus on the process of celebrating and being celebrated on activities at the Realino Learning Community (KBR) in Jombor which will take place on Saturday, October 28 2023.
To be precise, it was Youth Pledge Day. KEMANT UGM collaborates with Realino SPM to provide service and contribution to our marginalized brothers and sisters. Our theme is diversity. This theme is then wrapped in an activity that indirectly trains children’s cognitive, psychomotor and affective skills. At kindergarten level, we invite them to color pictures that symbolize diversity. In small elementary school groups, we introduce them to wayang. Meanwhile, in large elementary schools, we share knowledge about various batik motifs. Unfortunately, the children at junior high school level who we planned to introduce to the forms of Indonesian territory, were not present that day.
The activities above seem simple. During preparation, it turned out that the activity plan continued to invite revisions and light debate between us, KEMANT UGM. The concept and rundown that we designed, in the end, could not be used as a guide. We did it without any good plans. Unexpected things, obstacles that arise on the D-day, are quite overwhelming and draining energy. All these feelings and thoughts did not disappear for a moment when we were at the location.
We admit that this is our first experience. It feels very foreign. There are difficulties building relationships and approaching children to interact. We learn to try to understand each person, open ourselves to respect each other. We learn to get used to responding and building emotional relationships with innocent children. The most important thing is to position yourself not to make them feel different from us, but rather friends.
We feel it is worthy of celebration because it is warmly welcomed by the sincerity of the Realino SPM Community who dedicate themselves to humanity. We also feel celebrated because we get strength and happiness from the sincerity of the children in Jombor. We were able to proceed because we received guidance and direction from fellow Realino volunteers. We were able to carry out this plan because we learned from the children’s honesty and openness about how to express their feelings and thoughts. We celebrated this experience with great joy, spreading the mat as a platform for conversation. There are many colors poured in, as well as laughter that is painted as sweet.
Our initial interests and the sincerity of our meeting succeeded in being united, synergizing and chatting for one common goal, love that humanizes others. Initially, we felt that this activity was limited to the responsibility of the organization. But then, this turned into a feeling of empathy and wanting to do the best for the children in Jombor. We realize that they have the same rights and worthiness to achieve their dreams as other children.
It’s definitely not an easy matter to keep innovating so you can attract children’s interest every week. It’s not an easy matter to keep communicating in the midst of personal and college activities. Realino has managed to survive in Jombor and we hope it will thrive for a long time. This is the celebration that we want to convey through writing. We hope this can provide relief and strength for all who read, and can also feel the emotional bond that we felt while dynamic in Jombor.
gtpministries.org– Indeed, I never imagined that today, I would witness the end of a publishing business that began about 50 years ago. I was an eye witness to how Father Adolf Heuken, SJ, who was good at writing, composed words, put sentences together, wrote them down, published them, looked for markets, and raised funds to run this small office. An impressive and dedicated journey from a publishing institution that started modestly but grew to become an integral part of the history of publishing in this country.
In the journey of Cipta Loka Caraka (CLC), we discover the richness of deep meaning behind each letter that makes up this name. KKK – Catholic Cadre Course – is the name of a publishing section of the Marian Congregation which is located at Jalan Gunung Sahari 88, Jakarta. The Marian Congregation, which at that time was known as MC, or Mariana Congregation , or Sodality of Our Lady changed its name to CLC, Christian Life Community . How to become a Cipta Loka Caraka? CLC, Cipta Loka Caraka. This name was compiled from material inherited from CLC, the Christian Life Community . From this first “C” comes the word Cipta, which contains the meaning of copyright, to create. make, do. From Life , to Loka , it contains the meaning of place. And the second “C” refers to the word Caraka , which means messenger. With deep aspirations and hopes to become a “Place for Creating Messengers”; CLC strives to offer writings that may be useful for anyone who is called to be a keeper of tradition, a bearer of light, and a shaper of character.
This publishing institution was born from a holy spirit, with the initial mission of spreading spiritual reading to young people. As time went by, this institution grew and developed, expanding into various fields of knowledge. From publishing small books, various simple dictionaries to thick dictionaries, books on the history of the city of Jakarta, as well as encyclopedias of the Catholic Church. This institution has been an important part in spreading knowledge and wisdom. I remember it as a long journey that started with very humble beginnings. Like a crawling, tottering walk that continues without making too much noise, but still alive, still producing and still dedicated. Those of us who were in the early days of CLC, may feel grateful to be able to observe closely, Father Adolf Heuken, SJ as founder, writer, publisher, market creator, subscription developer, fund seeker, and research actor. He gave an example of how in the early days we were taught not only to carry out tasks, but also to formulate a basic understanding of what CLC does and how the fruits of its work can be meaningful for the people and society.
However, as we know, new times come bringing inevitable changes. This publishing institution, which had started as an intellectual explorer, then faced the challenges of changing times. The content, marketing methods and interactions with the public have also changed. While these changes force us to accept the closure of this institution, we are also invited to be grateful for all its gains during this time. At the same time, we hope that this feeling of gratitude will become capital to move forward. CLC’s strength lies in its courage to start a business. CLC saw a need, CLC took action.
These publishing institutions left behind not only physical prints that line library shelves, but also invisible legacies of knowledge and inspiration. The works produced not only reflect intellectual progress, but are also a reflection of the spirit of togetherness and hard work that has turned it into an institution whose work is absorbed by society.
As we close this chapter, let us give thanks for all that has been accomplished and celebrate together. Although this institution will come to an end, may its spirit live on through every book that has been published, every idea that has been bestowed upon us, and every positive change that has been inspired by it. We are grateful that CLC has served in its time. Hopefully every messenger who has been touched by Cipta Loka Caraka can bring light of goodness and happiness to the places they visit and light the path they walk. Have a good rest CLC, safe passage to eternity, Cipta Loka Caraka. May the trail you have blazed continue in a million ways.
Gtpministries.org – On February 2 2024, to coincide with the Feast of the Presentation of Jesus in the Temple and the First Friday Eucharist, the Feast of Final Vows for four priests belonging to the Society of Jesus was celebrated solemnly at the Church of Santa Theresia Bongsari Semarang. The four caules are Father Rudy Chandra Wijaya, SJ, Father Joseph Mangatur Mangisi Tua Situmorang, SJ, Father Alexander Hendra Dwi Asmara, SJ, and Father Eduardus Didik Cahyono, SJ. The Eucharist celebration led by Provincial Father Benedict Hari Juliawan, SJ was attended by people, families and tertiaries from the Philippines, Thailand, Malaysia, Slovakia and Nigeria.
If the First Vow of the Society of Jesus is interpreted as the Jesuit’s promise to join the Society of Jesus, the Final Vow is interpreted as the Jesuits’ full offering to the Society. By taking their vows, Jesuits are expected to emulate the attitude of Jesus Christ who voluntarily offered himself for the glory of God, as when he was presented in the Temple and when he died on the cross.
Final vows were held at Bongsari Church, Semarang.
Documentation: 2024 Final Vows Committee
In his homily, Father Benny told the story of the life of Saint Ignatius Loyola, founder of the Society of Jesus, whose spirit needs to be emulated. Saint Ignatius, who was originally a soldier, faced a life challenge when a canon bomb hit one of his legs and left him limping. After experiencing all that, Saint Ignatius received a call to repent. When he wanted to pray in a Marian grotto, he took off his sword and coat which were symbols of his warrior spirit and rank. Some time after that, Saint Ignatius completely devoted himself to God by forming the Society of Jesus. Father Benny invited the congregation and the Jesuits to pay attention to Saint Ignatius’ ability to let go of all his possessions, desires and aspirations in order to offer himself to God. Father Benny reminded that in the end, every human being will present themselves to God in a different way. The difficulties or challenges that we will experience in this effort are normal, as happened to Saint Ignatius Loyola.
“In the end, we are asked to give up our freedom to offer ourselves to God,” said Father Benny.
At the end of the Eucharist Celebration, Father Hendra as a representative of the caules, expressed gratitude and gratitude to the families who had supported their journey, the Jesuit community where they served, the congregation, interfaith figures, the Final Vows committee of the Society of Jesus, and the liturgical officers who served during Eucharist.
Father Hendra interpreted the acceptance of the Final Vows as the Society of Jesus’ belief in the Jesuits to live forever in the society for the greater service and glory of God. He also asked for prayers and support from all the people present so that they could be truly faithful in carrying out their duties in the Society of Jesus.
To further develop a safe culture and environment within the global Jesuit community, the Society has launched a comprehensive education and training program aimed at protecting minors and vulnerable adults.
This initiative, otherwise known as the Promotion of a Consistent Culture of Protection (PCCP), will be implemented in all areas of the apostolate of the Society of Jesus including pre-secondary and secondary education, higher education, informal education, work -socio-pastoral work, Jesuit formation, faith and spirituality, and global networking.
The PCCP was mentioned by Father General Arturo Sosa, SJ in De Statu Societatis 2023 . PCCP’s global audit to be completed in 2022 identified the need for quality training or workshops that drove the formulation of this global program. After extensive consultation with Major Superiors, Safeguarding Delegates at Conference level, various Secretariats and their networks, finally the proposal for comprehensive training on safeguarding was approved in June 2023.
Father General has appointed Father John Guiney, SJ as Coordinator and Dr. Sandra Racionero-Plaza as Assistant. They will start work in January 2024 for the next three years. They are responsible for organizing and implementing this training program in collaboration with all Provinces and the work of the Society of Jesus throughout the world.
In a letter addressed to all Major Superiors dated 8 December 2023, the Fr General stressed the importance of the new PCCP Program as a significant step forward in carrying out the shared mission to eliminate abuse, as outlined in the second point of the Universal Apostolic Preference, Walking with the Marginalized . This program is seen as a strategic initiative and has a social impact because it contributes to the Union’s ongoing efforts, namely creating a culture of protection for all its members. The focus is on designing training programs and developing specific curricula for each domain of apostolic work.
The Conference Presidents and Team of Delegates play an important role in ensuring the effective implementation of the program. Father General has called for the importance of collaboration, participation and support from all Provinces and is working hard so that this program can fulfill the ambitious mandate as set out in KJ 36, namely creating a consistent culture of protection and security.
In addition, the Society also celebrated another milestone on December 8, 2023, namely with the publication of the latest edition of Promotio Iustitiae which is entirely dedicated to the PCCP. This publication serves as a primary document offering insight into the history of the PCCP and the contributions of the six Conferences, highlighting concrete experiences in assisting victims, developing policies and protocols, and successful examples of prevention efforts in various educational settings and the general public.
This edition, published in four languages and available open access, also features reflections on the training and formation required. Key universal Society networks, such as the Jesuit Refugee Service , Fe y Alegria , and Xavier Network , have contributed to this edition and further enriched the overall understanding of protection efforts in our Jesuit communities.
The Society of Jesus, in addition to encouraging the dissemination of this latest edition of the Promotio Iustitiae , also hopes for the active participation of all members to promote this mission of protection and safe culture for the entire Ignatian family.
The Botong area and the surrounding forests were originally a “big mall” that provided various kinds of life necessities for the Kualant Dayak tribe. However, currently this “big mall” is slowly turning into an area that is experiencing quite heavy environmental damage. The forest and surrounding area, which previously provided everything the community could enjoy, has now become an environment that lacks natural resources. While the population continues to increase, the need for clothing, food and shelter also continues to increase. The only remaining natural resource is gold mining, so many Kualant Dayak people also carry out these mining activities. Many areas around Botong are encroached on by “dongfeng” machines used to mine gold. In the end, existing large malls are increasingly threatened. Even the Kualant River, which previously had very clear water, has now become very murky.
The issue of mining, environmental damage and its impact on the community in Botong and its surroundings is not without narrative. There have been many attempts to respond to this problem, but not much change has occurred. In fact, conflicts between those who are pro and anti-mining have already occurred and until now there has been no agreement.
In his homily, Bishop Pius Riana Prapdi, Pr asked the congregation to sing the song Our Lady on the Edge of the Kualant River which was composed by Fr. Nugroho Tri Sumartono, Pr. The song tells the story of the people’s promise on the banks of the Kualant River to care for nature. In his reflection, Msgr. Pius also mentioned his trip on June 2 and 3 2023 when he visited Jangat Station and the Siling Ketupak waterfall. In his homily at the Hides Station, Msgr. Pius mentioned that the flow of the Kualant river five years ago was very clear and the water was drinkable. Currently the water is no longer as clear as before. Then during a visit to the Siling Ketupak waterfall, while recollecting together with OMK Botong, Mgr. Pius still saw hope. The flow of waterfalls and rivers is still very clear and clean. He hopes that all Botong people can protect and care for the forests, rivers and land under the supervision of the Botong Parish.
Officially became the Parish of St. Mary Mother of God Botong
After waiting for approximately 50 years, St. Mary Mother of God Botong, Ketapang Diocese inaugurated. Previously, the Botong area was part of the station in Balai Berkuak Parish. Many priests from various congregations have worked in Botong. With joy, after the Jesuits were present at Botong Station, the process of inaugurating it as a parish moved more quickly and finally on June 4 2023, Botong Station officially changed its status to St. Mary’s Parish. Mary Mother of God, Botong. In this parish there are currently three Jesuits, namely Father Philippus Bagus Widyawan, SJ as Head Parish Pastor, Father Albertus Mardi Santosa, SJ as Associate Pastor, and Brother Yosephus Bayu Aji Prasetyo, SJ as TOK-er.
The series of joys at the inauguration of the parish was also marked by the inauguration of two chapels, namely the Stasi Kemunduk and Empasi Chapels. Apart from the chapel, a sub-district health center was also inaugurated at Jenish Stasi, which is also used as a place for weekly prayers. Apart from religious priests, monks and nuns, guests attending this inauguration came from various parishes and regions. There were also people who had to walk five hours to witness the inauguration of Botong Parish.
Remaining Challenges
To arrive at Botong Parish, the journey can be done in two ways. The first is by motorbike from Balai Berkuak. Second, by car to Empasi station and continue by motorbike. In the past Botong Parish could be accessed by boat, but due to decreasing river water levels and increasing mud deposits, access by boat was not possible. I don’t know how long it will take for four-wheeled vehicles to reach Botong Parish. According to reports, this year there are plans to widen the road. This unavailability of road access automatically slows down the process of interaction between parishioners and the outside world. Access to other facilities such as health, communications, logistics and education will ultimately be affected.
From the stories of the Jesuits and also what I have witnessed myself, one of the tough challenges faced by the people in this parish is a matter of perseverance and the willingness to implement new things in social life. The Jesuits who were present there tried to solve this problem, for example by ‘educating’ young people to have an attitude of perseverance. Several young people have been sent to study agriculture at KPTT Salatiga and carpentry at PIKA Semarang to complement their skills in both fields. However, what then becomes a problem is that the knowledge that has been learned has not been fully applied there. Hope remains because I witnessed several teenagers who became very diligent when taught by the Jesuits in the Rectory. There are six teenagers who are specifically trained in discipline by Father Mardi, namely every 06.00 they are taught to work (sweeping, planting, watering plants, making embankments, and cleaning the rectory area). If they have endurance, I believe the principle of perseverance can be honed. For this reason, the Jesuits there have tried to combat this problem.
Another way to do this is to send Kualant Dayak children to study in Java, for example studying at junior high school, high school and vocational school levels in several places such as Solo, Salatiga and Yogyakarta. The hope is that those who have finished studying will want to return to Botong and develop their area. Another challenge that is not easy to face is understanding local culture and carrying out inculturation, for example traditional parties accompanied by alcoholic drinks which often end in fights. It turns out that the distribution of illegal drugs has also reached this place. The reflective question that can be asked then is how Botong Parish can take a positive role and make changes. Parish priests have often reminded us of the negative impact of ‘poyon’ or drinking alcohol until we get drunk.
The final challenge which is quite urgent is environmental damage due to illegal mining. The impact is very real. For example, what is seen on the Kualant River. However, awareness of preserving the environment is always outweighed by the lure of profits from mining materials. The process of building awareness has long begun, at least from the snippet of the song Our Lady on the Edge of the Kualant River that we heard, namely the promise to protect the natural environment. Hopefully!
