Monday, February 3rd, 2025.
The late afternoon was elegant, the church gates opened, and the Cijantung parishioners began to arrive. At exactly 6 p.m., the church bells rang, the Angelus prayer was recited, and a few minutes later, the Mass began. What made this late afternoon mass so different?
It turns out that St. Aloysius Gonzaga Church, Cijantung celebrated its very first English Mass. History was made, and the parishioners of Cijantung flocked to celebrate. The enthusiasm of the faithful made this beautiful evening memorable and full of meaning.
The English Mass was led by Father Willy CSsR and Father Linus CSsR.
The Mass proceeded with great solemnity. The parishioners, from the elderly to the young, were drawn into silence and peace. History became one with memory, remembrance, and will remain an impressive story for the days to come.
This Mass was also particularly special for the Cijantung parishioners. Father Linus CSsR, who co-led the Mass today, celebrated 25 years of his service as a Redemptorist and servant of God. In his remarks, Father Linus congratulated everyone on the creation of this historic moment, and expressed hope that more parishioners would come and experience the joy of attending Mass in English.
In his homily, Father Willy imparted wisdom, encouraging us to always surrender and allow the power of God to work in our lives. This brief reflection brought me to the same ambiance as found in one of Chairil Anwar’s poems titled ‘Doa’ : " My Lord, in my contemplation, I still call Your name. Though it is truly difficult to remember You fully. Your light is sacred warmth, remaining like the flicker of a candle in the silent darkness."
In addition to the homily, Father Willy deeply appreciated the unity of the Cijantung parish community in organizing this English Mass. Hopefully, even amidst challenges, we continue to remember God: fully and completely.
The camaraderie of this evening was further enlivened by the melodious singing of the SCC Cibubur sisters. From 10,000 Reasons to Give Thanks, these hymns filled the church and soared to the heavens. A historic event, a new beginning—today it has been etched into existence and will always be remembered.
Time marched on. A full hour of enjoyment and peace passed.
When the Mass concluded, the parishioners greeted each other warmly. Father Willy and Father Linus approached several parishioners, briefly conversing and sharing stories, adding warmth to this beautiful Monday evening. On this occasion, Father Linus received many prayers and congratulations for his 25 years of faith and love as a servant of God—a journey marked by dedication, commitment, and zeal.
Time continued to pass, but laughter and smiles filled the courtyard of St. Aloysius Gonzaga Church, Cijantung. The parishioners lingered, chatting and joking, seemingly reluctant to leave, still wanting to add to the story of this historic moment—the first-ever English Mass.
Komsos Cijantung team had the opportunity to interview Father Willy and Brother Beben after the Mass. Impressions and messages were shared, and hopes were born this evening. Father Willy, as the accompanying priest, expressed his hope that the youth of Cijantung Parish would become more enthusiastic and continue to attend and enliven this English-language Mass.
"The youth are the backbone of the Church. You are the hope for the future of the Church. You are the solution. And in language, we are not islands separated from one another, but a sea that unites us."
This invitation applies to all of us, the parishioners of Cijantung, especially the youth, to unite in Christ's banquet.
Beben, one of the many young people who participated in this evening Mass, also encouraged the youth to get closer to Christ through activities like this.
There are many good things about this event. Conversing, singing, praying in English—these are small acts done with great love. Mother Teresa of Calcutta once reminded us that not all of us can do great things, but we can do small things with great love.
This English Mass is proof that we are capable of doing small things with great love. Perfect thanks are due to all parties who participated in creating this history. Ultimately, a message emerged: no matter how fragmented life may feel, as if lost or wandering in a foreign land, remember to always knock on God’s door.
And in this journey, it’s okay to create history every now and then. St. Aloysius Gonzaga Church has paved the way by holding its first English Mass. Now, it’s up to us to take this message and create history for ourselves.
Come to St. Aloysius Gonzaga Church in Cijantung every Monday evening at 6 p.m. Together, let us participate in the English Mass, which today has entered the annals of Cijantung Parish’s history.
Written by Daut Ogilvie - Komsos Cijantung
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