On the evening of Sunday, November 24, 2024, the capitulars of the Redemptorist Province of Indonesia arrived at Puspas Katikuloku. They gathered to participate in the Mid-Quadrennium Chapter, an important meeting in the life and mission of the Congregation. The primary objective of this chapter is to evaluate and monitor the work carried out by the Provincial, the Provincial Council, as well as the Secretariat and Commissions at the provincial level of the Redemptorists.
The chapter took place from November 25 to 28, 2024. The series of meetings began with the celebration of the Eucharist on Monday morning, presided over by Fr. Jack Umbu Warata, Provincial of Indonesia. In his homily during the Eucharistic celebration, Fr. Jack invited the capitulars to reflect on their calling as missionaries of hope, drawing inspiration from the thought-provoking theme of the reflection: “You Are the Light of the World.” He reminded all present that as Redemptorists, they are called to be a light in this world, bringing the light of Christ to everyone, everywhere.
The main focus of this chapter was on Formation and the discussion of the finalization of the Statutes of the Redemptorist Province of Indonesia.
On the first day, the capitulars listened to a report on the development of the Congregation in the Province of Indonesia over the past two years. There were many encouraging signs, especially in terms of the growth of vocations which have increased in this province.
In addition, we heard reports from the Formation Secretariat covering various stages of Redemptorist formation. The reports included the Community of Studies at Wisma Sang Penebus in Yogyakarta, presented by Fr. Redemp followed by the report from the Novitiate by Fr. Marianus, the life of the Postulants as presented by Fr. Richard, and the report on the Aspirancy by Fr. Handri Mone. Each report highlighted positive developments as well as the challenges that need to be faced together in forming future missionary candidates.
On the second day of the chapter, we had the valuable opportunity to hear from Fr. Takeshi Inoue, Vice Provincial of Japan, who shared experiences and hopes from the perspective of a province that is an integral part of the Province of Indonesia. Fr. Takeshi’s presence strengthened the fraternal bonds between the provinces, supporting each other in our shared mission.
The second day was also an important moment when the capitulars discussed in depth the New Statutes of the Redemptorist Province of Indonesia. The discussion proceeded smoothly and with great hope, paving the way for the refinement of the statutes to better reflect the dynamics of the Congregation in the future.
On the third day, the capitulars received an update from the economist regarding the financial situation of the province and made several decisions and recommendations to be implemented in the next two years of the current quadrennial leadership.
Throughout this meeting, in addition to focusing on evaluation and program planning, the capitulars also encouraged and strengthened each other in the spirit of brotherhood. This chapter was not just a moment to reassess the direction of our work, but also a time to renew our commitment as faithful Redemptorists in the mission of redemption. We are determined to bring Christ’s love and redemption to a world that desperately needs His light.
We would like to express our sincere thanks to Fr. Simon and the entire staff of Puspas Katikuloku for their dedicated efforts in accommodating all the preparations and the execution of this Mid-Quadrennium Chapter. Without their hard work, this event would not have been as successful.
Let us continue to move forward in the spirit of our calling, with courage and zeal. May the abundant redemption of Christ be felt by everyone as we encounter on this journey of service.
Copiosa apud eum redemptio.
Fr. Willy Pala, CSsR.
