By SocCom INA

Jakarta, Indonesia, 29 June 2025 - A Day full of meaning for the Salesian Family of the Province of INA. On the Solemnity of Sts Peter and Paul, two great apostles and pillars of the Church, a total of 25 Salesian Cooperator Aspirants were officially received into the Salesian Association of Cooperators. After undergoing an initial formation period of 1½ years, they made their Apostolic Promise today with great faith and joy.

During the initial formation period, the aspirants delved deeper into the life and spirituality of Don Bosco, got to know the Salesian Family that he inherited, and absorbed elements of the Salesian DNA that make us unique and relevant in the world.

This formation is not just a formality. There is a deepening process, serious self-evaluation through scrutiny, and a final interview. Many admitted to being tense in the last days, but it was all done with sincerity. Each aspirant wrote a personal letter of request to the Provincial as an expression of sincere intention to become a true Salesian in the world.

In the homily for the Mass celebrating the feast day and the reception of vows, the Provincial, Father Vincentius Prastowo, SDB, offered a touching reflection after reading all the aspirants' application letters. He summarized their hearts in three profound questions:

1. Am I worthy?
2. Am I capable?
3. How can I be consistent with this commitment in a world full of challenges and trials?

Father answered firmly and hopefully: "All these questions are answered in today's Eucharist, because Jesus said: I am with you." Like Peter and Paul, who were faithful to the end, not because they were strong or perfect, but because Jesus, who called them, never left them. He who gives the mission, He also enables.

Today, in the presence of their "spiritual brothers and sisters" - the three previous batches of Salesian Cooperators - the 25 aspirants made their Apostolic Promise. With that, INA Province officially welcomed the 4th batch of Salesian Cooperators!

But remember: this is not the end, but the beginning of a new life. This promise is not a graduation, but a commitment to live as true Salesians in the world, bringing the spirit of Don Bosco into the family, the work environment, the community, and the Church.

Congratulations to our 25 new Cooperators! May the testimony of their lives refresh the apostolic spirit of us all. And as God is faithful, may they also be faithful.

Saints Peter and Paul, pray for us. Don Bosco guided us. Mary, Helper of Christians, protect us.

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