This year’s Christmas celebration with Jakarta Redemptorist Youth marks a new milestone! Since the Redemptorists’ official presence in the Archdiocese of Jakarta in 1998, this is the first time that young people from the two Redemptorist parishes—St. Leo Agung Parish, Jatiwaringin, and St. Aloysius Gonzaga Parish, Cijantung—have united in the enduring spirit of Christmas. Though the Christmas season has passed, its message to bring light to the world continues to burn brightly in our hearts.
The idea for this joint Christmas celebration emerged in November 2024, initiated by young people who participated in the Alphonsian Youth Gathering (AYG) last July. A small committee was formed on December 21, 2024, and the plan received tremendous support from the youth community, the Pastoral Councils of both parishes, and the Redemptorists of the St. John Neumann Community in Jakarta.
On Saturday, January 18, 2025, St. Leo Agung Church in Jatiwaringin hosted this joyful Christmas celebration. Fr. Rafi Uran, CSsR, led the vibrant Eucharistic celebration, which was accompanied by songs and dances that fostered a spirit of togetherness.
One of the highlights was the regional-themed dress code. Many attendees wore traditional Sumbanese attire or accessories, while others showcased traditional clothing from various parts of Indonesia. This created a colorful atmosphere that celebrated cultural diversity. The Jakarta Redemptorist Youth truly displayed their dynamism and creativity!
After the Mass, the celebration continued with a warm gathering. Activities included introductions, an interactive talk show with the Redemptorists, as well as lively performances of dances and songs by both the youth and the Redemptorist priests.
During the engaging and friendly talk show, Fr. Enos Bulu Bali, CSsR, introduced the Redemptorists—who they are, their history, and their spirituality—and shared how the Redemptorists bring the Good News to the world as missionaries of hope. Meanwhile, Fr. Willy Ngongo Pala, CSsR, elaborated on the theme of AYG 2024, “One Encounter, One Family, One Mission.” He said, “This gathering is the first step to getting to know one another, building a solid Redemptorist family, and together fulfilling the mission of evangelization as Redemptorist youth.”
This event is only the beginning. The Jakarta Redemptorist Youth have agreed to hold regular Youth Masses every two months. The next celebration will take place at St. Aloysius Gonzaga Parish, Cijantung.
May this Christmas celebration serve as a promising start to building a strong and united family of Jakarta Redemptorist Youth. Together with the Redemptorists, let us move forward in renewing ourselves, our hearts, and our mission.
As Fr. Willy aptly put it, “Young people must always be ready to be the solution for today’s challenges.” Let us continue to bring light to the world with the spirit of Copiosa Apud Eum Redemptio!
Fr.Willy Ngongo Pala CSsR
