By SocCom INA
Jakarta, Indonesia, 31 January 2025 -- Jakarta recently witnessed the daunting aftermath of unexpected flash floods, impacting many, including the communities of Sunter and Kelapa Gading. Yet, amidst these challenging times, the spirit of unity and faith within our Salesian Family shone brightly as we gathered to honor our father and founder, St. John Bosco, known affectionately as Don Bosco. This celebration, held in the chapel of the Postnovitiate of Wisma, marked the culmination of a series of festivities dedicated to various Salesian saints throughout January.
The serene drizzle outside could not dampen the warmth inside as the chapel resonated with the harmonious singing of our young Salesians, Salesian Cooperators, and members of the Association of Mary Help of Christians (ADMA). The solemn Mass was concelebrated by seven priests from the communities of the Provincialate and Post-Novitiate, led by Fr Prastowo, our Provincial Superior. In his homily, drawing inspiration from the Strenna 2023, "As Yeast in Today's Human Family," Fr Provincial eloquently urged us to reflect on the historical journey of our Vice-Province. He likened our Salesian presence to yeast, small yet profoundly transformative, echoing the growth from a modest beginning at Rajawali VI/I in Pademangan to the present expanse across nine houses and communities, with an anticipated expansion to Kalimantan. This metaphor of yeast perfectly encapsulated the essence of our Salesian mission — subtle but impactful, fostering growth and renewal from within. Fr Provincial engaged all of us in a reflective exercise, quizzing us about the milestones of our expansion and the key figures (Fr addressed them as "legends") who steered our journey at different times. This interactive reflection was not just about recounting facts but fostering a deep sense of gratitude and continuity of purpose among us, the members.
Moreover, the homily highlighted the importance of societal transformation through personal witness, rather than mere physical infrastructure. He emphasized that true change comes from who we are, not what we have, and cited examples of exemplary figures within our Salesian tradition. Mamma Margaret, for instance, was sanctified through her devoted service in the kitchen, caring for the needs of the first boys of the Oratory and supporting her son, Don Bosco, from the outset. Attilio Giordani, another "ordinary" person, was a family man and a Salesian Cooperator who excelled as a catechist, leader, and missionary. Fr Provincial also brought to our attention the stirring story of Akash Bashir, a courageous young man of 22 from Lahore, Pakistan. Akash made the ultimate sacrifice by giving his life to prevent a suicide bomber from entering a church where hundreds were gathered in prayer.
His heroic act not only saved many lives but also marked him as a martyr, exemplifying the profound impact of Salesian education, instilled through the charism of Don Bosco. His sacrifice, the blood of a martyr, has become a seed of Christianity in Pakistan, embodying the transformative power of selfless love and courage.
These stories of ordinary duties performed with extraordinary love and consistency are powerful reminders of the "little things that transform." They serve as models for living out our faith in everyday actions, proving that everyone has the potential to contribute positively to the community, much like yeast in dough. It may be premature and perhaps presumptuous to declare that the vision and challenge of our founding father and pioneer, Fr Jose Carbonell, to "flood Indonesia with Salesians" is being realized. However, the call to be transformative agents in society resonates more profoundly than ever before.
Reflecting on our history and the remarkable growth of our Provincial Community over the years fills us with hope for the future. And may I add, this message from Fr Provincial resonates deeply with this year's theme of the Jubilee Year of the Church and the Strenna for the Salesian Family: Hope. It reminds us that, regardless of the adversities we face—be it the routine challenges of daily life or the severe threats posed by radicalism and terrorism—we are called to be like yeast: subtle yet transformative. This feast of Don Bosco was not only a celebration of a Saint but a reaffirmation of our collective commitment to live purposefully, inspired by the rich heritage and dynamic vision of our Salesian Mission. Viva Don Bosco!