A Note from Diaconal Ordination of Sch. Wibi at the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore

On Tuesday, April 7, 2026, Sch. Gregorius Agung Satriyo Wibisono, S. J., known as Wibi, a Jesuit Scholastic from Indonesia, and 13 other Jesuit scholastics from 12 Jesuit Provinces were ordained as deacons by Cardinal Peter Turkson during a Eucharistic celebration at the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore in Rome. The ceremony was warm and solemn, featuring the song “Take and Receive” by Onggo Lukito, a prominent Indonesian Catholic composer, arranger, and organist, which reflected the deacons’ total surrender to their calling.

The celebration was attended by friends and colleagues of the scholastics, including Mr. Trias Kuncahyono, the Indonesian Ambassador to the Holy See. His presence added a personal touch and showcased the Indonesian community’s support in Rome.

After Mass, Deacon Wibi expressed gratitude on behalf of the newly ordained, stating that this ordination marks the start of a more tangible ministry. He thanked God, the Church, mentors, and the community for their support, highlighting the importance of accompanying one another on our vocational journeys.

Cardinal Turkson’s presence was significant, as he emphasized that diaconal ministry should focus on Christ. He reminded the deacons to center their lives and service around Christ. His gestures, like helping the deacons rise after the laying on of hands, symbolized that a servant’s role is to uplift others.

The Mass also reflected Rome’s international character, with a congregation from diverse backgrounds. This diversity was highlighted by an African expression of joy during the ceremony, reminding all that ordination is an ecclesial act that sends deacons into a united Catholic Church.

As a community member, I experienced a deeper connection during the ordination ceremony. The people I interact with daily gathered to witness the grace of ordination, which reinforced my belief that it is ultimately a gift from God, cultivated through everyday faithfulness. The presence of deacons’ families, specifically Deacon Wibi’s family, who were there, added emotional significance, highlighting the importance of family support in nurturing vocations through relationships and prayer. The diaconal ordination on April 7th was carried out at the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore, receiving congratulations from the attending Jesuits.

This event was the result of extensive preparations that began in November 2025, including a course on confession and an exam in December. The ordinands practiced Mass with Fr. Anthony R. Lusvardi, S. J., and attended an eight-day spiritual retreat led by Fr. Paul Rolphy Pinto, S.J., and the Spiritual Prefects from Collegio Internazionale del Gesù, Fr. Leo Agung Sardi, S.J., and Fr. Mario Alberto, S.J. Before the ordination Mass, the community held a prayer vigil for the fourteen diaconal candidates, asking God for purity, fidelity, and readiness to serve.

Following the ordination, a dinner was held at the Collegio Internazionale del Gesù, attended by deacons’ families, friends, and other guests, including Jesuits and nuns from various backgrounds. The dinner featured international dishes that reflected the diverse community, including chicken fried rice and prawn sambal, prepared by Father Sardi and his team. A standout dish was lemper (sticky rice roll with savory filling), an Indonesian food that brought joy to those missing their home cuisine.

Cardinal Turkson emphasized the importance of keeping Christ at the center, both at the altar and in the community. This central focus inspires service through gratitude, kindness, and mutual support. The message expresses thanks for the support and prayers that helped the diaconal ordination process go well. From Rome, an invitation goes out to all Jesuit colleagues to join Deacon Wibi and the new deacons in prayer.