“I will follow You wherever You go” (Luke 9:57)

A profound moment of grace and thanksgiving was celebrated on May 23, 2026, as seven FCJM Sisters of the Indonesian Province made their Perpetual Profession, committing themselves forever to God, the Church, and the mission of the Congregation. The celebration brought together sisters, family members, clergy, benefactors, and friends in a joyful expression of faith and communion. For the FCJM family, it was a powerful reminder that God continues to call women to consecrated life and that generous hearts continue to respond with courage and trust. The Eucharistic Celebration was presided over by Rev. Fr. Michael Manurung, OFMCap, Vicar General of the Archdiocese of Medan, together with 35 concelebrating priests. The vows were received by Sr. M. Magdalena Schmitz, FCJM, Superior General, who travelled from Rome to accompany the sisters on this significant milestone in their vocational journey. She was joined by Sr. M. Theodosia Tinambunan, FCJM, Provincial Superior of the Indonesian Province, and Sr. M. Lydia Simbolon, FCJM, Vice Provincial.

The sisters who professed their perpetual vows were:

1. Sr. M. Paula Sitanggang, FCJM – Sts. Peter and Paul Parish, Parongil (Archdiocese of Medan)
2. Sr. M. Sriarta Novayanti Sinambela, FCJM – St. Fidelis Parish, Dolok Sanggul (Archdiocese of Medan)
3. Sr. M. Natalia Tae, FCJM – St. John the Baptist Parish, Kaputu (Diocese of Atambua)
4. Sr. M. Bergitha Nino, FCJM – St. Anthony Mary Claret Parish, Oenopu (Diocese of Atambua)
5. Sr. M. Veronika Ximenes, FCJM – St. Anthony Parish, Manatuto (Diocese of Baucau, Timor-Leste)
6. Sr. M. Rafaella Damanik, FCJM – St. Francis of Assisi Parish, Saribudolok (Archdiocese of Medan)
7. Sr. M. Raymunda Malau, FCJM – St. Paul Parish, Pekanbaru (Diocese of Padang)

In his homily, Fr. Michael Manurung invited those present to recognize the deeper meaning of the celebration. He described the occasion not merely as a historical event or a date marked on the calendar, but as a true Kairos a privileged moment of grace. Reflecting on the call of Samuel, he reminded the congregation that God continues to speak to His people today. The challenge, he said, is whether individuals remain attentive enough to hear His voice amid the noise of everyday life. The witness of the newly professed sisters demonstrates that the call of God remains alive and that there are still men and women willing to respond generously, saying, “Speak, Lord, for your servant is listening.” His message resonated deeply with the congregation and highlighted the significance of religious vocation as a gift not only for the individual but also for the Church and society.

Following the Eucharistic celebration, the joy continued in the RPM Hall, where families, sisters, and guests gathered for a festive program. One of the most meaningful moments was the presentation of cultural symbols and traditional expressions by the families of the newly professed sisters. Representing various ethnic groups from Indonesia and Timor-Leste, these presentations reflected the beauty of cultural diversity within the Congregation and the wider Church. The vibrant colors, traditional customs, and cultural performances offered a visible sign that diversity enriches rather than divides. Despite their different backgrounds, all were united in faith, gratitude, and the shared joy of celebrating God’s work in the lives of these seven sisters.

For many guests, this aspect of the celebration beautifully illustrated the international and intercultural character of the FCJM Congregation, where people from different nations and cultures are brought together by a common mission and a shared commitment to the Gospel. The festive gathering also featured performances prepared by various FCJM ministries and communities. Among the most touching presentations was that of the differently abled members of the Harapan Jaya Rehabilitation Center (PRHJ) in Pematangsiantar, a ministry entrusted to the FCJM Sisters.

With enthusiasm and heartfelt joy, they offered a performance that moved and inspired everyone present. Their participation served as a powerful reminder that every person possesses unique gifts and dignity. Through their witness, they not only celebrated the newly professed sisters but also proclaimed a message of hope, inclusion, and gratitude. The warmth and sincerity of their performance became one of the most memorable moments of the day, reflecting the spirit of service and compassion that lies at the heart of the FCJM mission.

At a time when the Church in many parts of the world faces challenges in fostering new vocations, the Perpetual Profession of these seven sisters stands as a sign of hope and renewal. Their commitment testifies that God continues to call, and that His invitation still finds generous responses among young women willing to dedicate their lives to the service of the Gospel. As they become definitive members of the FCJM Indonesian Province, these sisters begin a new chapter of missionary discipleship. Their lives will continue to be shaped by prayer, community life, and apostolic service, bearing witness to God’s love wherever they are called to serve.

May their fidelity inspire young people to listen attentively to God’s voice and to trust in His plan. May they continue to grow in wisdom, joy, and love, becoming instruments of hope and compassion in a world longing for the presence of Christ.

Written by Sr. M. Ivoline Maharaja FCJM and translated by Paska Elisa Soriani Sitinjak