The Radiance of Faithfulness: Diamond and Platinum Jubilee

29/08/2025

Saturday, July 26, 2025
Chapel of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, Santa Ursula Convent, Jakarta

A gentle and reverent atmosphere enveloped the Sacred Heart Chapel at the Santa Ursula Convent that Saturday morning. But beyond the stillness, there was a quiet stirring of emotion flowing from five women—women who may not speak much, yet whose lives have long become a living testament of faithfulness.

In the Eucharistic Celebration of the Diamond and Platinum Jubilee of Religious Life, five sisters of the Ursulines of the Roman Union renewed their lifelong commitment to God—a gift that has been sustained for 60 and 75 years in the vocation of consecrated life. They are:

- Sr. Annunciata Filon, OSU – 75 years of religious life (now aged 99)
- Sr. Dorothea Widjaja, OSU
- Sr. Alphonsa Martadikrama, OSU
- Sr. Jeannette Krista, OSU
- Sr. Marisa Yogaprabawa, OSU
(the latter four each celebrating 60 years of religious life)

“I Was Moved Seeing These Sisters…”

With a voice trembling with emotion, Sr. Monika Lita Hasanah, OSU, Provincial of the Ursulines in Indonesia, shared her heartfelt impression before the assembly: “I was moved seeing these sisters,” she said. “Because I see their faithfulness… and perhaps I will never live to experience a moment like this.”

For Sr. Lita, this jubilee was not merely a matter of counting years. It marked a sacred milestone of the soul, etched in countless moments of prayer, service, labor, and silence.

She recalled the unique journeys of each Sister:
- Sr. Annunciata’s joy in serving small communities in Cisantana and Agats, Papua
- Sr. Dorothea as a pioneer in Timika, Papua
- Sr. Jeannette’s leadership roles in the Province
- Sr. Alphonsa’s long dedication in Flores, mentoring young women with vocational skills
- Sr. Marisa’s many years of service as a school principal
She then offered a beautiful metaphor: “A raw diamond is already precious. But a polished diamond—cut and refined—shines and reflects the light of the Eternal Source.”

“Those Who Are Faithful Will Endure”

In his homily, Bishop Antonius Subianto Bunjamin, OSC, of the Diocese of Bandung, who presided over the Eucharist with 11 concelebrating priests, shared a profound yet tender reflection: “Not all who endure are faithful. But those who are faithful… will surely endure.”

Looking at the five sisters who now stood as living witnesses of God’s enduring love, Bishop Anton invited the faithful to see religious life not as a personal achievement, but as a rare and sacred privilege, gifted only to a few. Though their physical strength may fade, their spirits shine ever brighter.

A Celebration of Grace and Community

The Eucharistic celebration drew many hearts. Present were Ursuline Sisters from various communities across Java and beyond, along with friends, relatives, and distinguished guests, including Mr. Ignatius Jonan and his wife, and Mr. Sofjan Wanandi and family.

Yet more than who attended, what truly moved hearts was the palpable presence of God's unifying love. Every glance, every smile, every embrace and prayer weaved a quiet harmony—invisible, yet deeply felt.

Following the Mass, everyone gathered in the convent garden for a joyful fellowship. A simple lunch became a vibrant moment of communion. Many joined in spontaneous singing and dancing with the Sisters, reviving the spirit of humble and joyful sisterhood.

Faithfulness Doesn’t Need a Stage—It Just Shines

In a world that glorifies youth, speed, and instant success, this celebration stood as a gentle oasis—reminding us that faithfulness is still beautiful. It doesn’t fade with age. It doesn’t need applause. It simply dwells in silence, and radiates through the faces of those who have chosen to love to the end.

To the Sisters celebrating their Diamond and Platinum Jubilees, thank you for being mirrors of faithfulness and beacons of love for the Church and the world.

Soli Deo Gloria.

— Sr. Christina Ayda OSU