INDONESIA — Representatives from 38 dioceses across Indonesia convened for the 10th General Assembly of Diocesan Directors of the Pontifical Mission Societies (PMS) from August 4 to 7, focusing on preparations for this year’s World Mission Sunday.
The meeting, held under the theme “Missionaries of Hope Among the Peoples,” opened with a Mass presided over by Bishop Aloysius Sutrisnaatmaka, MSF, President of the Missionary Commission of the Indonesian Episcopal Conference.
Discussions centered on the identity of the PMS and its role within the missionary dynamics of dioceses, according to a report by Fides News Agency.
Father Dinh Anh Nhue Nguyen, OFM Conv, Secretary General of the Pontifical Mission Union, addressed the assembly via video conference, highlighting the historical roots and vision of the PMS in the context of this year’s World Mission Sunday message.
He stressed “the indispensable task of the mission societies, namely the preservation and transmission of missionary spirituality and the inclusion of all believers in the missionary work of the universal Church.”
The second day was dedicated to sharing “best practices.” These included a fundraising campaign for children, diocesan gatherings of altar servers, missionary faith formation programs for children and youth, the repositioning of the PMS in relation to diocesan commissions and pastoral centers, missionary education initiatives in seminaries and catechist schools, and the training of parish staff for missionary education.
Participants also discussed “faith and fundraising” as a concrete expression of participation in the Church’s mission.
On the final day, participants shared culinary traditions from across the archipelago, fostering cultural exchange and mutual enrichment. The assembly concluded with the creation of six regional working groups, whose recommendations will be integrated into a joint missionary program.
The gathering officially closed with a Mass celebrated by Fr. Alfonsus Widhiwiryawan, SX, National Director of the PMS in Indonesia.
