General Chapter Officially Opens With Cultural Celebration and Mass
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 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 and friends with many of the participants at the Chapter because of his studies at CISA 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 of Day 1, the prior general, Míċeál O’Neill gave his report to the Chapter. This report on the spiritual and temporal state of the Order is mandated by the Constitutions of the Order. The prior general explained that his original talk was 28 pages long but that he would give a much-shortened version to the Chapter assembly. It is his desire that the report, as well as those in the days to come regarding the various regions, will spark some discussion among the delegates.
