GLT Accompaniment: Indonesia

“Radiating Courage”: MSC Indonesia Province Assembly. The 2026 Provincial Assembly of the MSC Indonesia Province, held in Jakarta from 9–15 February, was truly a time of grace where courage and fraternity renewed the Province in hope. On behalf of the General Leadership Team Gene Pejo, MSC and Chris Chaplin, MSC joined the Assembly as observers.

The gathering opened with a deep spiritual recollection led by Adrianus (Aris) Fenanlampir, MSC inviting confreres to become “Missionaries of the Sacred Heart with a heart.” His reflection set the tone: before structures and strategies, there must be interior depth. Yongki Wawo, MSC later reminded the Assembly that leadership is not a contest of strength but a discernment of who can radiate the compassion, closeness, and tenderness of the Heart of Jesus.

Throughout the week, many voices shaped the conversation. Sam Maranresy, MSC, the outgoing Provincial, guided the Assembly with transparency and courage. Rexi Alfrits Kawuwung presented key reports. Andrew Paparang addressed financial realities with clarity and calm. Johanis Ohoitimur and Anselmo Jamlean helped the Province reflect on governance and structures for accountability. Yulius Sodah, Sani Saliwardaya, Markus Reponata, Celsius Mayabubun, and many others contributed many interventions on topics including formation, mission, and stewardship.

What stood out was the spirit of shared responsibility. Different Regions honestly presented both challenges and creative initiatives. Confrères spoke about safeguarding, financial discipline, and the importance of living religious poverty with integrity. Hard conversations became hopeful ones because they were grounded in love for the Congregation.

The high point came on 12 February with the election of new leadership.

After prayer, votes were cast from among the Province’s 272 perpetually professed members. P. Ronny (Hironimus) Dahua, MSC was elected Provincial. When Sam Maranresy asked if he would accept, he responded simply: “Ya, saya bersedia.” [“Yes, I am willing.”]

His first words as Provincial reflected humility and unity: he spoke of walking together, learning together, and allowing unity to overcome differences. He reminded us of the 2023 General Chapter image of walking together with Jesus on the road to Emmaus, listening to him speak to us”.

Confirmation from the Superior General, Abzalón Alvarado Tovar, MSC, was received with gratitude.

In the subsequent election, guided by the new Provincial, P. Petrus Suroto, MSC was chosen as Vice Provincial and likewise accepted the responsibility willingly, albeit virtually as he was not physically at the Assembly.

The Assembly closed with the Ave Admirabile and a blessing from the newly elected Provincial — a deeply moving sign of continuity and trust.

The Province emerges from this Assembly having reviewed its mission and life with courage and trust— born from prayer, honesty, fraternity, and vigorous debate.

Ametur Ubique Terrarum Cor Jesu Sacratissimum.

Chris Chaplin, MSC. Australian Province