The Ruteng Community in Flores Island, Indonesia, was blessed to welcome Mother General, Sr. Graciela Francovig, accompanied by her Consultor, Sr. Emelinda Falsis, during their first visit to the mission from June 11 to 16, 2026.

Upon their arrival, they were warmly welcomed with a traditional Manggarai welcome ritual led by Sr. Emerensiana, our junior sister, along with our dear friends, Pa Nico and Ma Lily. From the very beginning, their presence brought joy, encouragement, and a deep sense of communion to the community.

The visit included several meaningful encounters. On the first day, Mother General and Sr. Emelinda paid a courtesy visit to the Diocese of Ruteng, where they were welcomed by Fr. Sebastian, SVD, Vicar General, representing Bishop Hormat, who was then in Jakarta. In the afternoon, they visited STIPAS (Sekolah Tinggi Pastoral St. Sirilus), where Sr. Emerensiana studies, and met with Fr. Hiro, the school's director and Chairman for Interreligious Dialogue in the Diocese. They also visited our former house in Leda and reconnected with old friends.

The following day was dedicated to individual conferences and a community encounter. It was a grace-filled opportunity for listening, sharing experiences, and reflecting together on the joys and challenges of our mission in Indonesia.

On the third day, they visited our social apostolate at St. Geronimus Orphanage, run by the Somascan Fathers. There, they witnessed our catechetical ministry and feeding program for 21 orphan boys. Later, they visited the family of Fr. Abdon, SVD, whose relatives have generously supported the community since its foundation. Among them is Mr. Stanley, a teacher who collaborates with Sr. Marie in vocation promotion activities in local schools.

The final day was spent at St. Klaus, where Sr. Judith and Sr. Mary assist in the Christian formation of approximately 280 senior high school girls. Mother General met with Fr. Fidel, President of the Foundation, and Fr. San, the school director. They also interacted with several students, some of whom expressed interest in discerning a vocation with the Hijas de Jesus after completing Grade 12.

The visit concluded with a joyful community dinner at Hill Spring, where Sr. Graciela enjoyed her favorite Indonesian dish, nasi goreng. On June 16, the community accompanied Mother General and Sr. Emelinda to the airport in Labuan Bajo, carrying with them cherished memories, words of encouragement, and renewed hope for the mission.

These days were filled with blessings through prayer, community gatherings, and personal encounters. They strengthened our sense of belonging to the wider Congregation and renewed our commitment to our vocation and mission. We thank God for the gift of this visit and for the loving presence, care, and guidance of Sr. Graciela and Sr. Emelinda.¡¡

íMuchas gracias, Hna. Graciela y Hna. Emelinda! Terima Kasih!

Hijas de Jesús - Indonesia Community

Ruteng, Flores Island