On the feast of Saints Timothy and Titus, January 26th, 2024, the Redemptorist Province of Indonesia received special gifts as seven confreres made their final vows in the chapel of Wisma Sang Penebus, Yogyakarta, Indonesia.
The Brothers are: Agustinus Snawi Poety Peuuma (Gusti), Akuila Maris (Hila),
Francis Tibu Kelen (Randy),
Fulgensius Avelinus Ora (Avel),
Kristophorus Akri Deodatus (Akri),
Heribertus Geroda Hayon (Heris) and
Yohanes Lamberto Haeng (Lahm).
Before taking their religious vows, the brothers attended a retreat to prepare for final vows at the St. Maria OCSO Rawaseng Hermitage Monastery, Central Java. During the three weeks of preparations, they were accompanied by Fr. Willy.
Fr. Jack Umbu Warata, Provincial, presided over the Eucharistic with the celebration of perpetual profession. The confreres and parents of those taking vows attended it. They are coming from Sumba, Flores, Solor and Lembata. Apart from that, some invitees came from various places in Java. They are our friends. Not only Catholics but also Muslim brothers and sisters.
The chosen motto for the celebration of eternal vows is “But I call you friends” (John 15:15). A friend is one who is always loyal whether the situation is good or not, said Fr. Jack. Our eternal loyalty is by following the example of Jesus Christ, who has always been faithful to us.
“You never forget your prayer. In whatever situation, pray diligently. Whoever persists in prayer will be heard by God,” he added.
“Hopefully, with these final vows, the confreres will become a hope for the people they serve. Don’t destroy them. Remember that our calling and duty is to unite people,” he reminded.
Continue to be a missionary of hope anytime and anywhere with the people you serve, especially those most in need of help and assistance in this era.
The Eucharist celebration was lively, accompanied by the Wisma Sang Penebus Choir.
After the Eucharist celebration, our togetherness continues with eating together and recreation. As usual, guests and community members danced the community dance to express shared joy.
Copiosa Apud Eum Redemptio
By Fr. Willy Ng Pala, CSsR
