Decease of dear late Bro. Simon Andrus Briyanto, FIC

04.03.2025 09:10:47 471x read.
INDONESIA

Decease of dear late Bro. Simon Andrus Briyanto, FIC

Dear Brothers and Associate Members,

It is our sad duty to inform you about the passing away of Br. Simon Andrus Briyanto on February 26, 2025 in Indonesia.

BROTHER SIMON ANDRUS BRIYANTO FIC

"Whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me." (Matthew 25:40)

This quotation from the Lord encapsulates the entire life of Br. Simon Andrus Briyanto, FIC. His service and care for others transcend mere duty; they are a manifestation of his love for God. His life stands as an offering to the Divine, expressed through every act of kindness towards those entrusted to his care.

Br. Simon was born in Magelang on October 5, 1971, into a loving family as the second of four siblings, the son of the late Yohanes Abdul Muntolib and Irene Akiyati. From a young age, he was recognized for his friendly demeanour, sociability, and attentiveness to those around him. These traits have continued to flourish and become more pronounced throughout his vocation as a brother, where he consistently radiates warmth and goodness to everyone he encounters.

His vocational journey commenced when he entered the Postulancy on July 22, 1994, followed by the Novitiate on July 5, 1995. With unwavering resolve, he made his first profession on July 2, 1997. His fidelity to God was further solidified when he dedicated his entire life through perpetual profession on July 2, 2003, within the FIC Congregation. At each stage of this journey, Br. Simon demonstrated sincerity, a spirit of service, and profound love for God and his community. As a brother, Br. Simon is known for his sociability, enthusiasm, and unwavering presence for others. His life is dedicated not to himself, but to the service of others. He has devoted himself to various missions, ranging from education and printing to leadership roles within different institutions of the FIC Congregation. Wherever he is assigned, he consistently brings joy, serves with a heartfelt commitment, and strives to give his best. Yet, beneath his busy exterior, Br. Simon is a brother of prayer. In simplicity and diligence, he continually relies on prayer.

ASSIGNMENTS AND MINISTRY OF BR. SIMON ANDRUS

1997 - 1999: Boro Community – Served at the Santa Maria Boro Weaving Factory.
1999 - 2001: Yogyakarta Community – Pursued a Diploma degree at the Akademi Pembangunan Masyarakat Desa (APMD) while also as a teacher at a Senior High School (SMA).
2001 - 2012: Muntilan Community – Served at the Van Lith Dormitory, Director of the Pangudi Luhur Printing Press in Muntilan, and pursued a bachelor degree at Sekolah Tinggi Pemerintahan Masyarakat Desa (STPMD).
2012 - 2019: Muntilan Community – Director of the Pangudi Luhur Printing Press in Muntilan, member of the board of the Budi Mulya Foundation Semarang (YBMS), and KPPA (Advisory Commission for Asset Management).
2019 - 2024: Wisma Bernadus Community (Semarang) – Served as a Chairman of the Budi Mulya Foundation (YBMS), Treasurer of Pangudi Luhur Foundation, and member of a board of KPPA (Advisory Commission for Asset Management).
As of January 1, 2025: Muntilan Community – Served as the assistance of the Director of Santa Maria Weaving Factory - Boro, Social Services, and a member of the KPPAI (Advisory Commission for Asset Management and Investment)

Throughout his life, Br. Simon faced numerous health challenges, including blood sugar disorders and a significant kidney stone operation. Despite these difficulties, he remained steadfast in spirit and continued to radiate love. He never complained or used his ailments as an excuse to cease his service. Even in his suffering, he directed his heart and attention towards others, as if his pain was merely a small part of his sacrificial love for God and the community.

On Sunday, February 23, 2025, with declining haemoglobin levels requiring a blood transfusion, Br. Simon was sent to Panti Rapih Hospital in Yogyakarta by Brs. Thomas Prastianto , Alvin and Albert (colleagues). In a state of full awareness, he humbly accepted this situation as part of God's plan. As his health deteriorated and his body weakened, Br. Simon, with unwavering faith, expressed his desire to receive the Sacrament of Anointing of the Sick as a sign of surrender and submission to God's saving love.

On Wednesday, February 26, 2025, at 12:00 PM WIB, in a serene and solemn atmosphere, accompanied by the brothers from the Muntilan Community and some CB sisters from Panti Rapih community, Br. Simon received the Sacrament of Anointing of the Sick from Fr. Supri. No one anticipated that this sacred moment would mark his final preparation. So swiftly, so peacefully, and in complete surrender, at 6:00 pm, Br. Simon was called back to the house of our eternal Father, God Almighty. He had fulfilled his mission, leaving an indelible mark of love in the lives of many people.

The death of Br. Simon has left a profound sorrow among his family, friends, and the entire his fellow Brothers in the Congregation. Yet, amidst this grief, there is a steadfast belief that he has completed his race with honour, remained faithful to his calling, and now rests in the embrace of God's love.

"Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord henceforth. “Blessed indeed, says the spirit, “that they may rest from their labours, for their deeds follow them." (Revelation 14:13).

Br. Simon, may you rest in the peace of the Lord. We are grateful for your love, service, and the enduring example of your life in our memories.

For a photograph of Br. Briyanto, we refer to the attachment.

May Br. Briyanto rest in perfect peace.