VOCATION PROMOTION IN INDONESIA ON THE GO…

The aspirants and a junior sister of Putri Putri Yesus in Indonesia conducted a series of vocation promotions in Manggarai and East Manggarai regions. They were accompanied by Sr. Marie Sweet, who shared first about the three stages of life. At the same time, the aspirants and a junior sister did the translation from English to Bahasa Indonesia

FRANSISKA’s Reflection:

On January 31, 2025, Sr. Marie and I conducted a vocation promotion in Sita and Borong. It was a valuable opportunity for me to grow in confidence in speaking before large groups and to prepare myself for my future mission in Indonesia.

Our journey to Sita was challenging because of the poor road conditions, but we persevered. Although the school was newly established and the number of students was small, I was grateful for the warm welcome we received from both the teachers and the students. They participated actively throughout the program. I was especially happy to share with them the life and mission of Mother Candida. At the end of the visit, eight students expressed their interest in religious life and requested a follow-up with the sisters.

Our next visit was to SMA Cinta Damai Borong, where the school owner warmly welcomed us and facilitated our vocation promotion. There were many students in attendance, including the Grade 11 girls. As I spoke before them, they listened attentively and asked thoughtful questions about our Congregation, which deeply touched me. Although only two girls expressed interest in discerning a religious vocation, I was grateful for their openness and felt encouraged by the experience.

KRISTIANI’s Reflection:

On February 5, 2025, we conducted a vocation promotion at SMA Negeri 1 Poco Ranaka, my alma mater, and at SMA Negeri 5 Poco Ranaka. It was a wonderful opportunity to reconnect with my former teachers. Our journey was smooth, the weather was pleasant, and my heart was filled with joy. At first, I felt very nervous, but when I saw the warm smiles and experienced the kind welcome of my former teachers, my nervousness faded, and I was filled with gratitude and happiness.

Many students attended the vocation promotion, although only a few expressed interest in learning more about our Congregation. During the question-and-answer session, one student asked me, “What is your motivation for becoming a sister?” That question deeply touched me and gave me the opportunity to share my vocation story. I answered that my deepest desire is to grow closer to God and to offer my life entirely to Him because I believe that He is the One who has called me to embrace religious life. Sharing this with the students was a meaningful and grace-filled experience for me.

SR. EMERENSIANA’s Reflection:

I am grateful to my cousin, Mr. Save Gantur, a teacher at St. Fransiskus School, for helping us arrange our vocation promotion on February 6, 2025. His assistance made our visit possible and contributed greatly to its success.

That day, I felt God’s loving presence especially because, despite the usual weather, it did not rain, allowing us to carry out the activity without interruption. We also met Mr. Jereme, one of the teachers and a former seminarian, who generously helped promote our Congregation through his social media reel, which reaches many followers. I sincerely hope and pray that the life and witness of Mother Candida touched the hearts of many young girls and inspired them to consider God’s call.

Although I was somewhat disappointed by the limited time and the venue, which was an open area where everyone had to stand, I understood the circumstances. The setting made the students hesitant to ask questions, resulting in less interaction than we had hoped. Nevertheless, I remain grateful because the vocation promotion went well, and I trust that God will continue to work in the hearts of those we encountered.

KURNIA’S Reflection:

On February 11, 2025, the Feast of Our Lady of Lourdes, Sr. Marie and I conducted a vocation promotion at Purang School. Although the weather was unfavorable, I trusted that God was calling us to be there, so we continued with our mission.

Before the session began, I felt nervous and uncertain, especially when Sr. Marie asked me to serve as her translator. To calm myself, I took a few deep breaths and prayed, asking God to give me courage and to guide my words so that everything I shared would reflect His will for the students. After entrusting everything to Him, I experienced a deep sense of peace and confidence. I was able to speak freely and share with the students about the life of Mother Candida, our Congregation, and my own vocation journey within the community.

The students listened attentively and seemed to enjoy our sharing. Their openness and joyful participation filled my heart with gratitude. I was especially thankful that two girls expressed interest in learning more about our Congregation. Although the number was small, I have no regrets, because I believe that God speaks to each person in His own time. I am grateful that the students were given the opportunity to know our Congregation and to begin reflecting on God’s call as they discern their future with greater awareness and trust.

Vocation Promotion Images