A Catholic pastoral college in eastern Indonesia sent 175 new religious educators on mission in January, urging them to serve the Church and society amid digital-era challenges.
The Atma Riksa Pastoral College (STIPAR) Ende conferred degrees on students of the 32nd cohort of its Catholic Religious Education Study Program during ceremonies held at the Mgr. Donatus Djagom Hall.
Of the 175 graduates, three earned the distinction of Magna Cum Laude: Gabriela Margarida Fatima Lopes, Maria Magdalena Bida, and Rosalia Sandrina Dua Moong, according to MIRIFICA News, the official news service of the bishops’ conference of Indonesia.
Forty received Cum Laude honors, 131 graduated with Very Satisfactory distinction, and one earned a Satisfactory distinction. The graduates officially received the academic degree of Bachelor of Education (S.Pd.).
The ceremony proceeded solemnly, with applause erupting each time a graduate’s name was called. Some parents shed tears after years of struggle, sacrifice, and prayer.
Yanuarius Gebo delivered the Graduates’ Oath, affirming the cohort’s commitment to serve the Church, the nation, and society.
Speaking on behalf of the graduates, Rosalia Sandrina Dua Moong reflected on a journey marked by economic hardship and perseverance. She emphasized that education at STIPAR Ende does not merely transfer knowledge but shapes character.
“Today we stand as proof that limitations can never overcome hope,” she said.
She expressed gratitude to campus leaders, lecturers, administrative staff, pastoral supervisors, and families who supported their studies.
“The academic degree we bear today is the fruit of your love and sacrifice,” she said.
STIPAR Chair Dr. Fransiskus Z. M. Deidhae said graduation marks the beginning of responsibility rather than its completion.
He pointed to challenges posed by the digital era, secularism, and individualism, and called on graduates to remain rooted in faith and character.
“Be graduates who do not only update your status on social media, but also update your faith and knowledge,” he said.
Ende Regent Yosef Benediktus Badeoda congratulated the graduates and underscored their role in shaping the moral and spiritual formation of future generations.
“Do not only become intelligent people, but become human beings who bring goodness to society,” he said.
The Director General of Catholic Community Guidance at Indonesia’s Ministry of Religious Affairs, Drs. Suparman, S.E., M.Si., said the graduates were not merely declared successful but were being sent forth.
He noted that STIPAR Ende produced 175 graduates this year, comprising 14 men and 161 women, adding to a total of 2,430 alumni throughout the institution’s history.
He emphasized that knowledge and faith must be expressed through concrete service to society.
Representing the Archbishop of Ende, Archdiocesan Vicar General Fr. Fery Dedhu said graduation affirms long struggle and sacrifice and carries a deeper calling.
He stressed that an academic degree marks the beginning of service and responsibility to society, the Church, and the nation.
Organizers described the event as a moment that not only produced graduates, but sent forth individuals prepared to serve and witness to their faith.
