Fifteen temporarily professed brothers in the Indonesian province renewed their vows together in Malang this year. Normally, the renewal of vows takes place in the different communities where the brothers live, but this year they opted for a joint gathering.
The meeting took place from 27 to 31 May 2024 at the retreat house Griya Samadhi Vincentius (GSV) in Malang, East Java. Part of the event was to refresh the junior brothers’ vocation, develop and revitalise their spirit of brotherhood, and strengthen their commitment to life as CMM brothers. The theme was ‘The formation and guidance of religious life: Psychological Strength of CMM Juniors”.
On 27, 28, and 29 May 2024, participants listened to several speakers who each highlighted a part of the theme.
Brother Nisensius Mety CMM shared some key points obtained at the meeting for formation leaders in Rome, in October 2023. Among other things, he spoke about the importance of brotherhood rooted in community life with the principle ‘you are me and I am you’. He presented Jesus Christ as an icon of ideal brotherhood, and stressed the importance of dialogue in brotherhood as a space for communication, openness and encounter, through which we can accept and understand each other.
Brother Paskalis Wangga CMM also addressed the importance of building unity in the community. This unity comes through acceptance and awareness that we have different cultural backgrounds, characters and genetics. These differences can become riches that strengthen community and unity so that we can grow into mature individuals in brotherhood.
Brother Blasius Perang CMM spoke about two important skills young religious must have today: religious resilience in the digital age and a constructive mindset in the context of Generation Z. Resilience is a valuable trait for young brothers, to face today’s realities. In doing so, it is important to think positively and be optimistic when facing various problems and challenges.
Fr Ignatius CM highlighted some aspects of St Vincent’s life and religious vows in Vincentian perspective. Among other things, he spoke about the importance of serving one another as St. Vincent exemplified. Vows should have an impact on the vocation to serve. Vows are not just words uttered but should be lived and benefit others.
Besides the lectures, there were some social activities such as a visit to the Kasih Bangsa Surabaya Foundation (YKBS), an umbrella body for social work institutions, and to the Bakti Luhur Orphanage.
The renewal of vows was part of the Eucharistic celebration on 30 May. This celebration was presided over by Igantius Suparno CM and Arlusius Hediharto SMM. The renewal of vows was received by Brother Paskalis Wangga CMM on behalf of the provincial superior. On 31 May 2024, the event concluded with a leisurely outing to the recreational park Jatim Park Malang.
Brother Vincentius Kaunang, CMM