Author name: Komunikator Serikat Jesus

SHARING OF YOUNG PEOPLE EDUCATED IN THE JESUIT PARISH STYLE Let me introduce myself. My name is Alberta Pangestika Silvera Putri, but I am usually called Alberta or Silvera. I am active as a Lector at St. Yusup Gedangan Parish and a grade XII student at a vocational school in Semarang. I am sharing this article as a young person who experiences a parish-style education managed by Jesuits.   One of the lessons I learned was the importance of readiness and willingness to process responsibility. This lesson was especially evident when I was involved in the committee for the Bible Reading Competition organized by the Lector Team of St. Yusup Gedangan Church. At that time, I was the Chair of the Committee.   Course of Events The Bible Reading Competition itself took place on December 8, 2024. Opened by the MC and started with a joint prayer and a speech from the chaperone and the Chairperson of the Committee, the competition was carried out by the participants with great enthusiasm. Starting from children, teenagers, and young people to the elderly, they showed their best abilities in terms of vocal technique, appreciation, and delivery of the contents of the passage being read. They took turns advancing according to the categories and rules the committee had explained at the beginning of the event. Mrs. Tessa and Mr. Widodo assessed their performances, two senior Lectors who had been active in Gedangan, assisted by Romo Dodo, SJ as one of the Lector Assistants.   By participating in this competition, participants are instilled with self-confidence and courage to appear in public. Participants and spectators are also invited to foster a spirit of reading, contemplating, and loving the Word of God, deepening faith, and fostering a sense of brotherhood with one another.   Becoming Part of the Committee Being a committee head or coordinator is not my first experience. I was an activity coordinator when I was involved in Children’s Faith Guidance (PIA) and at school. However, that was not as challenging as being the Head of the Committee for the Bible Reading Competition this time.   What makes the committee of this activity challenging is our relationship with external parties, not just the internal Lector Gedangan team. Therefore, the entire event needs to be thought through carefully. Some could criticize this activity if the planning and implementation are not mature or detailed enough. As the chairman, I also have to prepare my heart and mind with the possibility of receiving criticism. So, the responsibility that is carried is indeed remarkable. In addition, sometimes I, still learning, am overwhelmed by dividing my time with several other tasks outside of Lector.   Therefore, everything, from preparing to ensuring the event runs well, requires hard work and coordination in a committee. Occasionally, in the preparation process, we have differences of opinion, but all of that can be resolved with good communication. Everyone plays their respective roles and supports each other.   My personal feelings were mixed when I was involved in this committee. I felt proud because I was allowed to be part of this big event. In addition, pride also emerged when I saw the participants performing optimally or when the audience and judges appreciated the event’s smooth running. Warm and emotional feelings also appeared when I saw fellow committee members’ willingness, enthusiasm, and tremendous cooperation. The sense of tiredness seemed to disappear when I saw the excitement of all parties involved. The ups and downs we experienced together also made our relationship as a committee team closer.   I learned from my friends on the committee, especially about the importance of mutual understanding and cooperation. We experienced funny, annoying, tense, nervous, and anxious moments together as one Committee Team. Likewise, happiness and gratitude belong to us all when the event runs smoothly.   I also understood how it feels to shoulder responsibility, which was a bit heavy. From there, I learned to be more confident. I also developed a virtue in myself: daring to try new positive things offered in life. I was educated to realize that failure might happen when trying, but opportunities may not necessarily come a second time. Although I am a bit afraid to start and end everything, I believe that everything will be fine when I always surrender to God. For me, that experience was a very valuable life lesson and could make my thinking more mature.   I am also grateful that the Jesuits accompanied me as a young person. It was not only about how to carry myself in front of the congregation, I also learned about the deep meaning of every task I carried out. The Jesuits always gave touching advice and made me understand what it means to serve with the heart. The typical Jesuit values taught helped me develop as part of the Lector and changed my perspective on many things. Several small moments during the mentoring made me think, “Oh, yes, that’s right.” In addition, they were also always there and wanted to listen when I poured out my heart. That made me feel very supported and understood.   Closing Being a young person is a significant life journey for me. I am grateful to have been able to learn through various means, from being a lecturer to the coordinator of the Bible Reading Competition. This experience will continue to inspire and motivate me in the future. I am also encouraged to love and draw closer to God through His Word.   In addition, I also learned that there is nothing wrong with trying what has been started. Although I am still young and do not have much experience, I was educated to push as hard as possible. At least, I have dared to take responsibility well until the end.   Contributor: Alberta Pangestika Silvera Putri – Lecturer of St. Joseph Parish, Gedangan

The college world is full of twists and turns that must be passed. Difficulty understanding material, a busy schedule of taking care of assignments, and extra effort to be active in organizations and committees color the dynamics of today’s college students. This situation is often a barrier to limiting “this is my business” and “that’s your business.” Some may think about healing on the weekends after a busy week of lectures and all its dynamics. However, are all conditions like that and run monotonously without anything meaningful? No, in the Realino Learning Community in Jombor, we found a different healing experience that made our day meaningful and gave meaning to others.   We see and feel inspired that there are still people dedicated to street children, the underprivileged, and in limited conditions amidst the hustle and bustle of activities that must be carried out. That is what we see from Realino SPM, which consists of highly dedicated volunteers. They are present every week to provide all the attention for the little friends in Jombor. Each of these volunteers must have busy schedules and agendas. However, they still offer space, energy, and time to share love in a fun way.   Thankfully, we, the Pharmacy of Sanata Dharma University students, were allowed to participate on Saturday, September 14, 2024. That day, we came with all the anxiety in our minds and hearts regarding the material and dynamics that would be presented. Would it be interesting and captured by the children in Jombor? Although there were concerns, there was optimism that the event we had prepared would succeed. It turned out that when the dynamics were running, we found that the children there were fun, smart, and active children who welcomed the games and materials that we presented. However, that doesn’t mean that everything went smoothly. Of course, some children had their own conditions and tendencies and chose to enjoy themselves. Some others were reluctant to follow what we had designed and guided at certain moments. However, that was not a big deal because we knew that this was the phase for children to explore and express themselves so that they could not be limited just like that. From our experience in Jombor with them, overall, what was conveyed can be captured. Our material can be applied in everyday life and told to the family at home.   Healing for us that day was to seek new experiences and give our hearts to the children in the Realino Learning Community – Jombor. The Health Campaign is one form of intelligence and humanity. Our knowledge does not stop with us alone; it is spread to humanize humans further. Educating is not only the task of a teacher, but we realize that it is also part of our duty as pharmacy students who study medicines, including traditional medicine. For things that previously might have felt far away and never encountered by the children, we try to put them close to their eyes so that they are familiar and become part of their lives.   Through our experience in Jombor, we found God’s interesting design. In our reflection, God wants to show that the way to add value to yourself is not always by seeking academic achievement, enriching yourself, or pursuing a perfect GPA. Enriching others with experience is also a means of adding value to yourself through love. Another reflection is that in pharmacy, all experiments have results and parameters. In this service, some parameters increase the knowledge of the younger siblings through post-test results, discussions, and exciting Q&A. The smile of innocence from the children who learn new things is no less critical. Hopefully, this experience and dynamics will bring development to all of us. Finally, thank you to the Realino Community Service Section (SPM), who allowed us to join the service in the Realino Learning Community – Jombor.   Contributor: Alfonsus Stanley – Student of the Faculty of Pharmacy, Sanata Dharma University

Reflection on the Internship Program of Students of SMK St. Mikael Surakarta SMK St. Mikael Surakarta held a Field Work Practice (PKL) activity for grade XII students to enrich students’ competencies. At SMK St. Mikael Surakarta, the learning activities of grade X students are still about the basics of mechanical engineering, such as bench work, welding, and manual technical drawing. In grade XI, students begin to operate conventional and CNC lathes and milling machines and draw with CAD software.   In grade XII, students receive enrichment material by being placed as interns in several companies in and outside Surakarta. PKL activities are expected to provide work experience and opportunities for students to develop character in the world of work. In addition, during the dynamics at the PKL location, students can gain additional knowledge and skills that may not be obtained while studying at school. Students will also be tested on their commitment during the internship and whether they can carry out the work according to the demands of their respective PKL locations.   The internship for SMK Mikael students is carried out in two waves. In this academic year, the first wave will be held on July 22-September 27, 2024, while the second wave will be held on October 7-December 19, 2024. Students who complete the internship will receive a certificate as a graduation requirement. Jona Alfaloqita and I underwent the first wave of internship and were placed in the furthest location than our other friends, namely at PT KJL Plastic Indonesia, Tangerang. This factory produces plastic drinking straws. For approximately 10 weeks, we gained much valuable experience and discovered the true spirit of working.   During the process at the PKL location, we assist the mechanical team in the production section. In that place, employees must wear unique uniforms that are only worn indoors because the place is a hygiene area. The mechanical team that has finished repairing the machine must clean the tools and wash their hands using the hand sanitizer available on each machine. All of these habits are intended to keep the products produced hygienic.   During our internship, we participated in a training program every Saturday with the maintenance team. This indeed increased our knowledge and skills in the world of machinery. The bonus was that we met Mr. Richard, an alumnus of Mikael College, who was the training material provider. In addition to meeting alums, we met Mr. Tri Budiyanto, the Head of Production. He is very friendly, likes to tell stories, and loves to share knowledge. His stories are very inspiring, for example, his experience in contributing and struggling to build a company from the beginning to the development of what it is today. Previously, he was just an ordinary mechanic. Even though he was just a mechanic, he had an extraordinary work ethic. He diligently studied the machines in the factory until he mastered every machine. Of course, this expertise is not an instant process. There is a strong commitment in Mr. Tri.   One of the core values or basic values taught at Michael College and other Jesuit schools is commitment. Commitment does not only apply at school but also continues in the world of work. Commitment is a promise. In this experience, the value of commitment is the entire will to carry out obligations with a sense of responsibility. Many rules must be implemented at work, from simple to complex ones. For example, arriving on time, working well, maintaining cleanliness, and production results must be abundant and of high quality to be required to learn more. Rules that seem complicated will not be a burden if you already have a commitment. There is no harm in committing to good values. When all the rules or orders have been obeyed, it becomes a habit over time. Even though you are used to it, please don’t consider it a routine. All of that needs to be realized and interpreted. There will be no complaints or negative reactions when fully committed, such as when undergoing this PKL.   Contributor: Syam Andriyanto Nugroho – St. Michael’s Vocational School, Surakarta

Reflections on the 2024 Excursion Study From September 30 to October 5, 2024, 10th-grade students of SMA Kolese de Britto Yogyakarta participated in a study excursion formation activity. This year, the study excursion, which took the theme “Caring for God’s Creation in the Framework of Local Wisdom,” invited students to pay more attention to the environment in which they have lived while recognizing local wisdom around them. The students were divided into several groups to conduct observations in their respective fields, be it energy, food, or waste management. Not only observing, the students also made efforts to realize the smooth running of existing processes for the sake of a stable life. Our hands got dirty, and our bodies were tired, but our experiences were formed to learn from them.   Through observation, we are made aware that producing food, producing electrical energy, and managing waste produced for human survival requires a long process and is not always instant. For the process to run smoothly, advanced technology is needed and supported by adequate resources and funding sources. Unfortunately, this is still a distant dream for business actors in food, electricity, and environmental cleanliness empowerment. Some of them experience a shortage of human resources and limited technology, so maximum results are not easily achieved. This lack of support also threatens some actors, for example, the number of rambak producers in Gantiwarno Village has decreased significantly. From the original 15 production houses, it has decreased to only 6 in 1 decade.   We are invited to help environmental empowerment and sustainability entrepreneurs, at least by supporting environmental empowerment efforts. There is no need for in-depth analysis; our failure to be able to help environmental empowerment can be seen in everyday life. Plastic waste is scattered everywhere, food waste is piling up, and the temperature is getting hotter due to increasingly severe global warming. These are all real pieces of evidence that we can easily find. In fact, all of this happens when the environment is increasingly unstable. The food, energy, and environmental cleanliness crisis is getting worse because of the difficulties of environmental empowerment activists.   I often feel ashamed for being so cruel to my environment. I don’t sort my trash. I rely on plastic so that plastic waste continues to pile up. Leftover food is also thrown away. I also enjoy the cold air conditioning almost all day, wasting energy. Humans may only want comfort. We all do the same thing, and this invites us to reflect on why we are so cruel. As creatures, God has given us free will, and we can make decisions according to reason and conscience. What can I do to improve my environment?   Contributor: Bumi Praba Murti – De Britto College High School

On December 2-5, 2024, as many as 23 prospective members of the Le Cocq d’Armandville College Presidium participated in the LKI activity at the Abdi Kristus Sisters Monastery, Wanggar District, Nabire, Central Papua. The LKI, or Ignatian Leadership Training, aims to prepare prospective new Presidium members to become qualified leaders based on Ignatian values.   “ Being Men and Women for and with Others ” is the theme of LKI this time. Through this theme, prospective Presidium members are expected to be able to become leaders who care, are responsible, and are involved in the lives of school residents and the surrounding community. This life is not just for oneself alone but also to serve others, especially those less fortunate, marginalized, and neglected.   On December 2, 2024, at 07.30 WIT, the prospective Presidium members and their companions were escorted to Wanggar using a truck. The journey, which took about an hour, was accompanied by Mrs. Ester Yanti and Father Yakobus Toto Yulianto, SJ   Upon arrival in Wanggar, Fr. Engelbertus Viktor Daki, SJ led the LKI Opening Service. In his brief reflection, Fr. Egi invited the prospective Presidium members to follow the dynamics of LKI with an open and joyful heart.   Knowing Yourself The LKI participants received several interesting materials. On the first day, Mrs. Theresia Kegiye gave Self-Introduction material. The participants were invited to truly recognize themselves as individuals who are loved by God, have talents and abilities that are useful for many people and are willing to become leaders who truly want to serve.   Ms. Magda, one of the Sanata Dharma University students undergoing a Teaching Assistance program at Le Cocq College, also provided material on the Qualities of a Leader. Ms. Magda emphasized the importance of having several qualified personal qualities as a leader to inspire and drive the organization. Ms. Magda also invited the participants to reflect more deeply and learn what kind of leader they are and who inspires them.   In addition to being invited to get to know themselves and review the qualities of leaders, Ms. Mutiara Kausar, a Sanata Dharma student in the Teaching Assistance program, also provided material on Leadership Skills. Participants were invited to learn about a number of basic skills that a leader needs to have, in accordance with the Ignatian spirit, such as discretionary skills and acting based on a magical spirit.   Value-Based Leadership On the second day, Fr. Engelbertus Viktor Daki, SJ, invited the participants to learn to become leaders with integrity and walk with God. They were invited to see the actions of Jesus, the true Teacher, in serving and accompanying the disciples.   In his presentation, Fr. Egi explained that in leadership dynamics later, they will always be on a “battlefield” from time to time. The war will occur between the leadership values that they uphold and various temptations, conflicts, fragility, and self-weakness. They are invited to know themselves so that if temptations come later, they know what to do so that the values they uphold, namely honesty, humility, magic, and sincerity, are maintained.   Ultimately, they are invited to become leaders with the harmony of mind, heart, and action. This harmony is expected to grow them and help them become leaders who think, speak, and act based on noble values rather than self-tendencies, ego, etc.   Power Relations Leadership is always related to power. When appointed a leader, he has the power to move others. Father Rikhardus Sani Wibowo, SJ, as a speaker, invited the participants to observe the leader’s role and the guidelines that must be followed to truly become a quality leader. One is choosing the path of exemplary behavior and not using threats or gifts when leading. Awareness of the role, power, and guidelines that need to be observed is expected to prevent participants from abusing power.   Mrs. Ester Yanti presented material on “Building Teams and Collaboration.” In her presentation, Mrs. Ester invited the participants to work together. By becoming members of the Presidium, they all become leaders who work as a team. No one works alone. Each person has advantages that need to be shared to make this Presidium team work solidly. Every person and every division in the Presidium needs to be able to collaborate.   Facing the Giants Prospective Presidium members were invited to watch a film, Facing the Giants. This film teaches how to be a good leader and always carry the name of God in good times and bad. The atmosphere that night was so exciting. In fact, in an extraordinary part of the film, the Presidium members also felt the happiness felt by the characters in the movie.   Outdoor Dynamics On the third day, participants were invited to become leaders who care about the environment and are moved to help others. After waking up in the morning, starting from in front of the Monastery, participants were invited to pick up trash scattered on the sides of the highway to the Wanggar Chapel and Wanggar Market. The conditions around the cleaned points were initially dirty and unpleasant, but they became clean and pleasant after that.   After the environmental cleaning activity, the participants offered to help the mothers sell their goods in the market. They were initially shy, but after trying and daring, they finally got involved in selling the goods sold by the mothers in the market. The hope is that the participants are sensitive to environmental cleanliness and also have the courage to do good things.   In addition to the materials, the members of the Presidium are invited to routinely conduct examen conscientiae or inner examination. This examen aims to train our sensitivity to good spirits and evil spirits. With the examen, prospective members of the Presidium are expected to be able to know the urges of good spirits, always follow them, learn the urges of evil spirits, and always stay away from them. The examen is carried out during the day before lunch and night