I am most grateful for the outpouring of support and kindness on the occasion of my triple jubilee anniversary celebrations to commemorate my 60 years in the Society of Jesus, 50 years of service in Indonesia and 46 years as an ordained priest.
I wish to extend my sincere thanks to all who were able to join me at the anniversary Mass and reception on 1 May, as well as the support and prayers of many others. I am particularly grateful to the Medan Archbishop Msgr. Anicetus Sinaga OFM Cap dan Emeritus Archbishop Msgr Pius Datubara OFM Cap, Fellow Priests, Brothers and Sisters for your support and blessings.
Please know of my sincere thanks to each member of the anniversary organizing committee – Natanael Armansjah Salim (Chairman), Martin Pailalah (Master of Ceremony), Eviani Juliana (Secretary), Sr. Jeanne Panul and assisted by Sr. Garilyn Funtilon (Liturgy), Agustin (Treasurer) Andreas Ajit (Events) and Juliana Wangsa and Regina Gunawan (Catering) – as you most generously gave of your time and effort in coordinating the celebration and making it so enjoyable. Special mention is also to be noted on the printing of the Mass programs and invitation cards at a very short notice.
I am truly grateful to the many parish volunteers that have helped to organize the Mass: to the altar servers, ushers and members of the shrine office and all involved. Sincere thanks to Zuiderzie Sitohang the leader of Ave Verum choir group and to all the members of the group.
Special thanks also goes to all the organizers and performers of cultural shows during the reception.
I would also like to record my appreciation to the parishioners from former assignments and neighborhood friends from Banda Aceh and local parishes, as well as the continued support of my family.
I celebrate the triple jubilee of priestly service in a spirit of praise and thanksgiving to the One God: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, and in gratitude for the protective care of the Blessed Virgin Mary. I am grateful to Almighty God for all the many blessings received throughout my life, including being rector of our Our Lady’s shrine Graha Maria Annai Velangkanni.
My years as a priest have been filled with many opportunities to serve others for God. Please pray for an increase of vocations to the priesthood and religious life, and for a more active laity. Together we are called by God to serve Him with our whole heart and soul.
Please be assured of my prayers for you and your families, and I ask for your prayers, as we journey together in the Catholic faith, together with the prayers of Mary, our Mother, and all the angels and saints. May God and the Blessed Mother continually bestow abundant grace upon us all.
Father James Barataputra S.J
Watch the recording of the event here
