Meeting of Student Brothers

In religious life, academic studies are not merely an endeavour to obtain degrees or enhance an academic portfolio; instead, they constitute an integral part of ongoing formation. These studies play a crucial role in personal growth and spiritual development, enabling brothers to deepen their vocations and enhance the quality of their service.

On June 6–7, 2025, the FIC Brothers of the Indonesian Province who were assigned to study held a meeting at the FIC Novitiate in Muntilan. The meeting was held on Friday evening and concluded on Saturday afternoon. The meeting was attended by brothers who are currently undertaking study assignments as well as those preparing to embark on their studies.

This meeting served as an opportunity to share inspiring experiences in a warm and supportive atmosphere. During the meeting, Brother Andrias Eko Susanto, who had recently completed his Master's degree at UNNES Semarang, shared insights from his academic journey. Brother Eko completed his Master's studies in less than 1.5 years with outstanding results. His testimony demonstrated that when studies are pursued with discipline and a strong vocational motivation, it become a source of blessings, not only for the individual but also for the community and the broader mission of the Congregation.

 Brother Agustinus Giwal Santoso, as a Superior of the Indonesian Province delivered an encouraging message to the brothers currently undertaking study assignments. He emphasised that the study is a mission mandated by the Congregation and should not be considered a mere personal endeavour. Instead, it is a form of intellectual and spiritual investment aimed at strengthening the brothers' contribution to their apostolate.

Bro. Giwal also reminded the Brothers that study assignments should not be used as an excuse to live as they please or to detach themselves from community life. He warned of the potential risks of receiving full support from the community while failing to fulfil study responsibilities wholeheartedly.

In religious life, the kindness and tolerance extended by the community should not serve as grounds for diminishing one's commitment to the spiritual path. Brother Giwal urged student brothers to remain mindful that every form of support—whether financial, structural, or spiritual—is a trust that must be honoured with sincerity. Studying endeavours undertaken with a sense of responsibility foster individuals who are not only academically proficient but also spiritually resilient and prepared for service.

Additionally, Brother Anton Karyadi offered a reflection on the theme "Self-Actualisation of the Student Brothers." He underscored that authentic academic engagement should not merely cultivate competence but also reinforce one's core religious vocation as a member of the FIC Brotherhood. Self-actualisation is not solely about individual achievement but about integrating the four pillars of religious life—prayer, communal living, vows, and apostolic work—into daily existence. A brother engaged in academic studies is called to become a holistic individual, deeply rooted in his religious identity, and to bear tangible fruit for the growth of God’s Kingdom.

It was acknowledged that undertaking studying assignments is not always an easy task. Time constraints, physical endurance, intellectual capacity, and academic pressures often pose challenges in achieving life balance. However, through honest discernment, each brother is invited to set priorities and embrace his studies not as a burden but as a path of vocational fulfilment. When choices are aligned with divine will, they yield peace, joy, and unwavering dedication.