On Nov. 25, 2025, coinciding with National Teachers’ Day, heavy rain had been pouring over Pandan and its surrounding areas for several days.
That morning, I was picked up by a car from the Santo Dominikus Convent in Pandan to travel to Silangit Airport. The journey was intended to take me to Jakarta and Yogyakarta, where I was invited to attend a meeting of the Santo Dominikus Education Foundation and to participate in a congregational retreat.
I was traveling with Fr. Rohendi Sahat Martua Marpaung, PR, a priest of the Diocese of Sibolga. We departed calmly, entrusting the journey entirely to God. Yet, human plans do not always unfold according to His will.
About thirty minutes after leaving the city of Sibolga, in the Bunandolok Area, our vehicle was forced to stop. A landslide and fallen trees had blocked the road, while the rain grew heavier, accompanied by strong winds. The roads both ahead of and behind us were cut off. We were trapped.
Desperation
In the midst of limitation and uncertainty, I prayed the Rosary continuously. I was still able to communicate briefly with the community and the school before the network signal completely disappeared.
Together with the driver, we were forced to spend the night inside the car, deep in the forest, in a highly vulnerable situation. The roaring sound of landslides could be heard repeatedly, only a few meters from where we were.
In the silence of that night, I could only pray, “Lord, if this service is meant to end here according to Your will, I am ready.”
Yet faith continued to strengthen me: God was present, for beside me stood a “shepherd”—Fr. Rohendi.
Courage to decide critical issues
The next morning, we were faced with a crucial decision: to leave the vehicle behind and walk toward the nearest village for the sake of our safety.
Barefoot, we made our way through forest paths, steep valleys, slippery mud, and deep ravines. Our feet were wounded, our bodies exhausted, hunger and thirst weighing heavily upon us.
Precious things left behind
It was in those moments that we truly experienced God’s tangible love through others. Fr. Rohendi patiently guided and encouraged me, even teaching me how to walk safely, hold onto ropes, and survive in the wilderness.
Fellow travelers we encountered along the way—whose vehicles were also stranded—helped one another without regard to differences of faith or culture. A TNI soldier we met in the forest became our guide, like an angel sent by God to show us the way.
In our search for a path to safety, I learned one essential lesson: survival is the ultimate priority. The suitcase I had intended to bring to Java—filled with meeting documents and retreat materials—had to be left behind. All achievements, positions, and human plans suddenly became meaningless compared to the life God had given.
By late afternoon, we finally reached Rampah Village. The villagers welcomed us warmly, offering shelter, food, and heartfelt care. God was truly present through their kindness. After resting, we continued our journey back on foot toward Sibolga.
Beginning on Nov. 28, 2025, three junior sisters of the KYM congregation and several local residents joined us as part of a new traveling group. The trio of nuns are Sr. Sarbeline Neka Kelen, KYM; Sr. Rafaela, KYM; and Sr. Debora, KYM. The return journey was no easier. The roads were even more slippery, and once again we crossed ravines and mountainous terrain. Yet faith, solidarity, and trust in God became our strength. Once more, I said “yes,” like the Virgin Mary: “Behold, I am the servant of the Lord.”
Living miracles
At 10:10 p.m., we finally arrived safely at Christophorus House of the Diocese of Sibolga. Gratitude and deep emotion enveloped us. This deliverance was truly a living miracle.
Several days later, I decided to return to Pandan and witnessed firsthand the condition of SMAS SW St. Francis, the school where we serve. The school complex had been devastated by floods and mudflows: learning facilities were damaged, and classrooms could no longer be used.
There, my prayer continued: “Lord, move the hearts of many to share their blessings, so that these children may return to learning in safety and hope.”
This experience taught me that God remains faithful and present, even when nature itself is in mourning. He reveals His presence through prayer, fraternity, and the courage to trust.
Praise and gratitude to God, and heartfelt thanks to all who have prayed for us. God truly loves His people who are in distress and hardship.
Sr. Mariane Winefride Widiastuti, OP, is a member of the Congregation of the Indonesian Dominican Sisters. She currently serves as principal of Saint Francis Senior High School (SMAS SW St. Francis), under the Diocese of Sibolga in Central Tapanuli, North Sumatra. A native of Saint Anthony Station, Saint Joseph Parish in Pringsewu, Lampung, she entered religious life in 2003 after completing her bachelor’s degree at STKIP PGRI Bandar Lampung. She made her perpetual vows in 2013. Over the years, she has served in various educational ministries across Java and Yogyakarta and has been assigned to the Diocese of Sibolga since July 2024.
