Reflection on the Visit to Wisma Emmaus Girisonta on National Education Day
Girisonta – National Education Day was joyfully observed on Saturday morning, May 2, 2026, centering on our duty to foster a competitive future generation and honoring the legacy of Ki Hadjar Dewantara. Mrs. Arum presided over the flag ceremony, emphasizing education as the cornerstone of our nation. To live out these values, our faculty and staff spent the afternoon visiting the senior Jesuits at Wisma Emmaus Girisonta. This visit allowed us to connect with those whose active ministry has transitioned into a powerful, quiet service of prayer. Meeting six of the resident priests, including Father Suhartomo, S.J., and Father Suryawasita, S.J., moved us, as their spiritual strength shone brightly despite their physical limitations.
During this visit, we shared stories about teaching experiences. Father Dibya spoke of being deeply influenced by his family of teachers. The discussion fostered a sense of camaraderie among educators. Father Suryawasita noted the importance of teachers adopting a caring, motherly attitude when guiding children, which brought laughter, warmth, and insight to the conversation and reflection.
A question was raised about how to handle challenges when efforts fall short of expectations. This inquiry prompted reflection on resilience and approach in teaching, underscoring the importance of support and understanding in the educational journey. Overall, the day reinforced the bonds among teachers and the impact of guided learning and shared experiences.
The fathers responded with various insights about life. Some highlighted the importance of humor and learning from experience, while Father Suhartomo emphasized the power of prayer. He shared his nightly practice of expressing gratitude for “pitulikur” (a Javanese number meaning twenty-seven) good things, noting that gratefulness enhances energy.
Despite their cheerful stories, we sensed a deeper emotion—the loneliness and longing for memories. This realization helped us appreciate our parents more, not only for their physical presence but also for their emotional experiences. Observing their frailty, we learned about human vulnerability, but also recognized that aging brings opportunities for reflection, acceptance, and peace.
Seeing the priests embrace the changes of aging with absolute sincerity was incredibly moving. Father Suryawasita reminded us that God is in every detail of life, guiding everything according to His will. This visit made us appreciate our own health and role as teachers so much more. We walked away inspired to be more diligent, to stand strong against temptation, and to bring prayer into everything we do. We ended our time by praying together for their health, asking for the strength to serve our young students with the very same love and sincerity.
Our gathering concluded with a commemorative photograph alongside the fathers and brothers. We expressed our deepest thanks for a reception defined by joyful simplicity and genuine warmth. While our time together was short, the impact was profound; we departed enriched and inspired by their collective wisdom and life journeys and witness.
Contributor: Yovita Siwi Damayanti, S.Pd – Teacher of Kanisius Girisonta Elementary School
