As the first light of dawn broke over Jakarta, greetings of “Happy Feast of St. Alphonsus!” were already filling WhatsApp groups of parishioners and Redemptorist communities on 1st of August in Jakarta. These warm wishes reflected hearts full of gratitude, marking the feast day of St. Alphonsus Maria de Liguori, founder of the Congregation of the Most Holy Redeemer.
This year’s celebration was especially meaningful as it coincided with the First Friday of August. Starting from July 29, the faithful had already entered a time of spiritual preparation through the Triduum of St. Alphonsus, centered on the powerful theme:“St. Alphonsus, Missionary of Hope: Following in the Footsteps of the Redeemer.”
Three Days of Reflection and Prayer
The triduum was structured around three daily sub-themes that invited participants into deeper reflection:
Day One – “Called to Be Sent” Led by Fr. Roby Ndajang, CSsR, the faithful reflected on how life itself is a mission and a calling to serve with love and fidelity.
Day Two – “Walking with the Wounded” With Fr. Wilhelmus Ngongo Pala, CSsR presiding, the liturgy called everyone to be present in the margins—bringing light and compassion to those who suffer in silence.
Day Three – “Faithful Until the End” Fr. Rafi Uran, CSsR invited the community to rekindle the missionary fire that never gives up, inspired by the unwavering spirit of St. Alphonsus.
Solemn and Joyful Eucharistic Celebration
The feast day climaxed on Friday, August 1, 2025, with a solemn Eucharistic Celebration held at St. Aloysius Gonzaga Parish, Cijantung. The Mass was presided over by Fr. Roby Ndajang, CSsR, the parish priest, and concelebrated by fellow Redemptorist confreres from the Jakarta Community. Faithful from both Cijantung and Jatiwaringin parishes gathered in large numbers to celebrate together.
The atmosphere was reverent yet vibrant. During the homily, the faithful were urged to follow the example of St. Alphonsus by becoming a Church that is courageous and compassionate.
“The Church is not meant to remain in an ivory tower,” said Fr. Willy in his homily. “We are called to go out, to walk with the broken, and to show the merciful face of God.”
Prayer Cards and Scarves: Symbols of Mission
After the Mass, each attendee received a prayer card of St. Alphonsus, complete with a QR code linking to an online version of the prayer. They were also gifted with a special commemorative scarf bearing the image of the saint—an emblem of Alphonsian missionary zeal.
Fellowship and Community Spirit
The celebration concluded with a simple fellowship gathering in the parish hall, where laughter, conversation, and warm connections strengthened the bonds of the community.
May today’s celebration inspire us all to become true missionaries of hope—bringing healing love, life-giving hope, and faith that transforms the world.
St. Alphonsus, pray for us.
Fr. Willy Ng Pala, CSsR.
