(Indonesia) – It was a great joy for the Divine Mercy Province of Indonesia to welcome ten Canossian Volunteers from the Philippines, accompanied by Sr. Rochelle, FdCC. On April 29, they arrived in Bintaro, and on May 1, they were divided into two groups: six people went to the Kupang community, and five people went to the Kasongan community. Their presence truly brought joy, especially to the two communities they visited. In a spirit of mutual acceptance, we welcomed them warmly, and in turn, they gratefully received whatever was provided within the communities.
Sincere Service, Shared Spirit
During their two-week stay in these two communities, the VOICA members served alongside the sisters—whether at school, in activities with young people, or by visiting some of the Sisters’ ministry sites, such as going to visit the sick in their homes, conducting Liturgy of the Word, and making a pilgrimage to the Marian grotto with the children and the Sisters. The mission carried out by the VOICA members was always accompanied by sincerity and brought joy to everyone they met, especially the students at the school. They were fully present to be with those they served, sharing their time and listening to each person. Their simplicity in service left a deep impression on us and on the children.
Many of us could not speak English fluently, but that did not prevent us from communicating with one another; sometimes a smile expressed what we wanted to say, and we realized that love was the bridge between us. There were several memorable moments that occurred while VOICA accompanied the children in their studies and while sharing stories with the people we served. Despite language differences, they continued to share stories and jokes joyfully.
In our time together in the community, there was no distance between us (Sisters) and the VOICA members—only a sense of mutual respect and acceptance as one family, the Canossian family. We shared stories, learned together through games led by VOICA, sometimes prayed together, and even worked together, such as washing dishes. In such simple moments, I found the spirit of St. Magdalene of Canossa truly alive.
The two weeks the VOICA members spent with us in the community felt very short, but the traces of that togetherness remain. Their presence “re-strengthened” us to continue living out the spirit bequeathed by our foundress, St. Magdalena of Canossa, to make Jesus known and loved through every simple act of service or witness in daily life. Their practice of mutual acceptance, enthusiasm, and sincerity remind us that the Canossian spirit grows from faithfulness to small things with great love.
Sr. E. Hilda
