Sumba, December 4, 2024 — Kolping Sumba marked its 30th anniversary with a celebration that brought together leaders, senior members, and supporters of Kolping Sumba. The event, filled with joy and reflection, celebrated three decades of impactful service to the people of Sumba.
The day began with a Holy Mass presided over by Fr. Marianus Dapa Talu, CSsR, the Diocesan Praeses. Also present were Kolping Sumba President, Mr. Yosep Suri, and other key figures in the organization’s leadership. Mr. Suri’s welcoming address looked back on the transformative journey of Kolping Sumba, emphasizing the organization’s dedication to community development and empowerment.
“We have made significant strides in our mission to support and empower the people of Sumba,” Mr. Suri remarked. He highlighted some of Kolping Sumba’s major achievements, including the establishment of 1,250 Kolping Wells that provide clean water to thousands of families, and the planting of over 50,000 trees as part of their environmental and reforestation efforts.
He also celebrated the success of their educational and vocational programs, such as the Kolping Asrama, a boarding house that helps girls from rural areas continue their studies. The organization’s courses in cooking and sewing have equipped many housewives with valuable skills for economic independence. Additionally, Kolping Sumba’s agricultural initiatives, including organic farming training and the distribution of farming tools like hand tractors and sprayers, have significantly improved the lives of local farmers.
The community’s resilience during the COVID-19 pandemic was also noted, with Kolping providing vital food aid, masks, and promoting hygiene practices to protect the people.
Voices of Commitment: Senior Members Reflect
Ibu Agustina Boeloe, the first member ever registered in Kolping Sumba, shared her deep appreciation for the organization’s growth over the years. She also fondly remembered her late husband, Pak Yosep Pati Wenge, who co-founded Kolping in Sumba alongside Fr. Herman May, CSsR, a German priest who first brought the Kolping spirit to the island in 1994.
In her heartfelt words during the Mass, Ibu Tina stressed the importance of “self-reliance” within the Kolping movement. “What matters most is being Kolping with self-reliance,” she said, emphasizing the need for members to embrace independence and manage their resources sustainably.
New Vision for Kolping Sumba
Hendrik Nango, from Kolping Lewa, also shared his thoughts, focusing on the economic sustainability of the members. He emphasized the importance of productive activities that can support the self-sufficiency of Kolping members. “We need to keep fostering income-generating activities that enable our members to stand on their own feet and grow economically,” he stated, underscoring the role of Kolping in creating lasting economic benefits for its community.
Jemsi Mandeta, the Secretary of Kolping Sumba, added a philosophical perspective on Kolping’s role in the community. He spoke passionately about the need to base Kolping’s initiatives on the local genius of Sumba, ensuring that the values and practices of Kolping align with the wisdom and traditions of the island. “Kolping should not merely exist in Sumba, but it should be Sumbanese in its truest sense. It is Kolping from Sumba, not Kolping in Sumba,” Jemsi stated, emphasizing that Kolping’s success lies in its ability to integrate with and respect the local culture while still adhering to the broader Kolping ideals.
Kolping’s Ongoing Commitment
Paulce Parera, the Coordinator for the Task Force Kolping Indonesia, also addressed the gathering, speaking about the importance of maintaining a positive mindset. “Kolping Positive” was his key message, urging everyone to continue working with optimism and determination to help people help themselves. His words resonated with the gathering, reinforcing the core Kolping principle of empowerment through solidarity and self-help.
As Kolping Sumba celebrates its 30th anniversary, the community reflects on its past successes while looking forward to continuing its mission of service, self-reliance, and development for years to come. With a strong foundation and a clear vision, Kolping Sumba is poised to further impact the lives of its members and the broader Sumbanese community in the years ahead. Thanks to Ibu Sisilia Pawolung and her team in Katiku Loku who prepared and supported this celebration!!
