On Sunday morning, The Feast of St. Clement Maria Hofbauer, March 15, 2026, the weather in Cijantung was bright and clear. From early morning, people were already coming to the church for the Sunday Mass. The churchyard was lively. Some arrived with their families, some walked a little faster because they were almost late, while others came in a relaxed way, greeting friends and acquaintances along the way.
At the same time, near to the place, the young people of the Catholic Youth (OMK) of Cijantung Parish were also gathering in the hall of SMA Slamet Riyadi. They came from different areas of the parish. Some arrived in groups, others came looking for friends and soon sat down together, chatting. The atmosphere quickly became lively—the kind of warm energy that always comes when young people gather.
That morning, they were taking part in an activity called Algonz Youth Fellowship, a gathering organized every three months for the parish youth. The theme for this meeting was quite meaningful: “Conversion to Care for the Earth, Our Common Home.” As usual, the whole activity began with the celebration of the Eucharist, presided over by Fr. Willy, CSsR. In this Lenten atmosphere, the young people were invited to look again at their own lives. Lent, they were reminded, is not only about repentance or self-denial, but also about recognizing the good things that God has been doing in our lives and giving thanks for them.
After Mass, the program continued with a talk and discussion on the theme “Young People Are the Fresh Face of the Church.” During the sharing, it was emphasized that the Church always needs young people with strong character. Jesus Himself once said, “Learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart.” From these words, the young people were invited to begin with something simple but very important: humility. Humility is like fertile soil. From it grow many other Christian virtues: prudence, justice, courage or fortitude, and the ability to exercise self-control.
When young people have these qualities, they are not afraid to witness to their faith. They can confidently say, like the blind man in the Gospel whom Jesus healed: “Lord, I believe.” For that reason, the young participants were encouraged to become people who are: wise in making choices, just in their actions, courageous in faith, and able to exercise self-control. Young people with these attitudes truly become the fresh face of the Church.
After the talk and discussion, the participants continued with small-group sharing. In these groups they exchanged stories, listened to one another, and learned from each other’s experiences. At times, the conversation was serious, but there was also plenty of laughter. The atmosphere was warm and friendly. Toward midday, the entire gathering concluded with a shared lunch. Sitting and eating together, continuing their conversations in a relaxed way, made the sense of community even stronger.
The organizers also expressed their gratitude to the young people from every area of Cijantung Parish who came and participated with such enthusiasm. Their presence made Algonz Youth Fellowship 2026 lively and full of youthful energy. Words of gratitude were also extended to the neighbourhood and area coordinators who supported and encouraged the youth to take part in the event. Their support helped make the gathering possible. Gratitude was likewise expressed to all the donors who contributed in different ways—through their time, attention, or material support.
Special thanks were given to SMA Slamet Riyadi for kindly providing the venue so that the event could take place comfortably and smoothly. And of course, great appreciation was given to the OMK Algonz leaders and the Parish Pastoral Council who worked hard from the beginning until the end to make the event happen.
In simple words: We planned it together, we carried it out together, and we give thanks for it together. When young people gather in such a way, the Church feels more alive—and from moments like these, the fresh face of the Church continues to grow.
Fr. Willy Ngongo Pala, CSsR.
