International Council Report. Indonesian Visit 2025

Indonesia. 23 June to 11 July 2025

The International Council responded to an invitation from the Indonesian National Council to attend their National Assembly, followed by more than two weeks of pastoral visitation to groups in Java. The visit was funded by the International Council, the Indonesian National Council, and individual donations from the International Council and Indonesian members. The visit, which took place from 23 June to 11 July 2025, was tightly scheduled and productive. I believe that the current benefits and potential future benefits justified the time and expenses involved in the visit.

Special commendation to Petrus Sidarta Maringka and Shirley Mohidi, who were the driving force behind the venture, supported by the Indonesian National Council and the two Provincials, both financially and in spirit. The organisation was superb, and the time and effort that must have been involved behind the scenes to ensure the scope of the visit and the smooth organisation is noted. As a result, there were significant possibilities for forming connections and relationships between the Indonesian laity and the international organisation and engaging in deep formation. I was privileged to observe a movement of empowered and committed laity who understood that their purpose is mission, and that mission is best undertaken standing side by side with the Religious. The image I have of the movement is that its members understand they are the yeast that will bring further life and growth to the Indonesian church and contribute to the well-being of the broader Indonesian society.

Alison McKenzie.