PMKRI asserts national movement is based on KWI advice
Jakarta (ANTARA) - The Chairman of the Presidium of the Central Board of PMKRI, Sanctus Thomas Aquinas Christian Rettob, has emphasised that the PMKRI movement, during his two-year leadership, will be based on the national advice and corrections contained within the Pastoral Note of the Indonesian Bishops’ Conference (KWI).
During the inauguration of the Central Board of the Indonesian Catholic Students Association (PP PMKRI) for the 2026–2028 period in Jakarta on Monday (28/9), he stated that the path of hope amidst national dynamics involves a church that walks together to nurture public civility and strengthen human solidarity in Indonesia.
“PMKRI, with all the capabilities of its members, will strive to internalise and implement this national advice,” said Christian, as quoted from a statement received in Jakarta on Tuesday.
Consequently, Christian invited all members to continue moving towards realising the organisation’s vision and mission through real action alongside the community.
According to him, this movement must proceed alongside continuous cadre development to ensure that PMKR maintains a strong intellectual, spiritual, and organisational foundation.
A message regarding the importance of maintaining idealism was also delivered by Gaudens Wodar, representing the Unifying Member and Chairman of the PP PMKRI Presidium for the 1988–1990 period.
He reminded the new officials not to lose their idealism when carrying out their leadership mandates.
“This is one of the association’s most precious assets that must be guarded. Do not be easily bought. Guard your idealism,” said Gaudens.
The inauguration ceremony began with a Mass, blessings, and the commissioning of the officials. The Eucharistic celebration was led by Father Hans Jeharut, accompanied by Father Lukas Kelwulan and Father Joseph El.
In his homily, Father Hans reminded the officials not to stop at the inauguration ceremony, but to immediately realise their organisational responsibilities through real work within society.
He assessed that PMKRI has an important mission to participate in building better public civility, thus challenging members to present movements that have a tangible impact on the community.
Meanwhile, in his address, Father Lukas Kelwulan reminded the officials to maintain their identity and Catholic values as educated individuals.
“You have been educated since childhood with Catholic values that are sacred, holy, and apostolic. Guard them; do not let any situation cause you to lose them,” Lukas emphasised.
This message serves as a reminder that PMKRI members are required not only to possess intellectual and leadership skills but also to carry Catholic values into social, national, and state life.
The inauguration of the PP PMKRI 2026–2028 period was also attended by the chairpersons of various student and youth organisations, as well as the Chairmen of the PP PMKRI Presidium from various leadership periods, ranging from 1985 to the present.