The members of the Carmelite General Chapter gathered at the front entrance to the Harris Hotel in Malang, Indonesia to be officially welcomed to Indonesia and the Chapter. The prior provincial, Franciscus Xavier Hariawan Adji and members of his council wearing traditional Javanese dress, offered words of welcome.
All the Chapter participants were then given a batik scarf by members of the province. A traditional Javenese Gembyong dance was then performed by students from St Albert’s College, the Carmelite school in Malang. Music accompanying the dance was provided by students and teachers and Carmelites from St Albert’s.
That was followed by a procession into the chapel for the General Chapter. The Prior General presided and the members of the outgoing General Council concelebrated. Music at the Mass in Kroncong style (a combination of Javenese and Dutch instruments) was provided by the Carmelite students in formation.
The events were graced with the presence of the local bishop, Carmelite Henricus Pidyarto Gunan. Bishop Pidyarto is well-known to many of the participants at the Chapter because of his studies at Rome in the 1980’s and his participation in the life of the Order over these many years.
During his homily, the Prior General presented 3 questions: Who are we? Why have we come here? And what are we going to do? It is important to see ourselves as we are: having been called and to accept that calling and live in every way in allegiance to Jesus Christ. That is who we are—with our calling and our gifts. And with these gifts we are to celebrate this chapter of brothers, as contemplatives, to discern the will of God for us and what God wants us to do to spread the Gospel.
In the afternoon, the Prior General, Míċeál O’Neill, gave his report on the spiritual and temporal state of the Order to the Chapter. He said that it was his hope that the report, as well as those in the days to come regarding the various regions of the Order, would spark discussion among the Chapter members.
More photos below.
Subscribe to CITOC - The International Carmelite Newsletter
