IofC Indonesia Saturday Gathering: The Future We Want

Saturday, August 8, 2020

We are thankful for having regular virtual gatherings which help our team stay on track, create a sense of community, support each other, and continue to work together. We still feel connected without being physically located together. Each one of us learns to focus on gratitude and how to care for people in this challenging time. After the online national consultation with IofC Indonesia friends in July, this week we discussed and reflected on the theme of The Future We Want. Two questions to be reflected, they were: what are my thoughts about the future I want for IofC Indonesia and how do I play my roles as part of this global family?  Having had asked ourselves about the questions, we learnt to find profound connection between the personal and global.

We were welcomed to share our thoughts, learnt to listen to others and give attention to whomever is speaking. We were also inspired by iListen sessions organized by IofC international team. One friend shared his concern on how we can engage with more people so that we grow together, practicing regular quiet times and applying the moral values in our everyday lives. A friend said, “Through this virtual gathering, I could see everyone’s potential and willingness to create a better future together.” Another friend shared, “This global pandemic can be stressful for many people. Having fear and anxiety with the uncertainty times can be overwhelming and affect someone’s mental health. This is the space that many people need; a space to share with others and to listen to friends in order that we understand their situations”.

Having recalled our memories on how we built IofC community in Indonesia, which was started with personal connections and the initiatives of young people who participated in the Asia Pacific Youth Conference (APYC) in Malaysia in 2002.  Each individual’s commitment will make a team work. We are grateful for the fellowship we have and respect the diversity amongst the team.  We are happy to continue this online conversation to connect more with ourselves, stay connected and grow in the spirit as a team. Stay healthy and happy, everyone!

Yofrina Octika Gultom