Leading PP PMKRI 2026-2028, Christian Rettob Brings the Spirit of the KWI Pastoral Note

The central board of the Indonesian Catholic Student Association (PP PMKRI) for the 2026–2028 period has officially assumed its new mandate. The inauguration ceremony took place at Margasiswa I, Menteng, Central Jakarta, on Monday, 28 September 2026.

This sacred series of events opened with an Inauguration Mass, a blessing procession, and the commissioning of the board members. The Eucharistic celebration was concelebrated by Father Hans Jeharut, alongside Father Lukas Kelwulan and Father Joseph El.

In his sermon, Father Hans emphasised that this inauguration momentum should not merely end as a ceremonial event. He encouraged the board members to immediately engage with society and execute their organisational responsibilities through tangible work. Given PMKRI’s significant role in shaping public civility, members were challenged to create movements that bring concrete impacts to the public.

Responding to this call, the Chairman of the Presidium of PP PMKRI Sanctus Thomas Aquinas for the 2026–2028 period, Christian A. D. Rettob, outlined the organisation’s direction through a National Speech. He stated that during his two-year term, PMKRI would utilise the Pastoral Note of the Indonesian Bishops’ Conference (KWI) as its movement compass.

“A path of hope amidst the nation’s dynamics, the Church walks together to nurture public civility and strengthen human solidarity in Indonesia. PMKRI, with all the capabilities of today’s members, will strive to internalise and implement these national advices,” he said.

Furthermore, Christian instructed all members to synergise with the community to realise the association’s vision and mission. He believes that real action on the ground must be balanced with a continuous regeneration process to produce individuals who are resilient intellectually, spiritually, and organisationally.

A message regarding the importance of maintaining integrity was also voiced by Gaudens Wodar, a representative of the Unifying Members and a former Chairman of the PP PMKRI Presidium during the 1988–1990 era. He warned the new board members never to compromise the fundamental principles of their struggle.

“This is one of the association’s most precious assets that must be guarded. Do not be easily bought. Protect your idealism,” he asserted.

In a similar vein, Father Lukas Kelwulan provided specific guidance regarding the identity of PMKRI members. He urged these young Catholic intellectuals to always uphold their identity of faith wherever they may be.