Indonesian Catholic Gender and Women's Empowerment Commission holds conference

The Secretariat of Gender and Women's Empowerment (SGPP) of the Indonesian Bishops' Conference (KWI) held a Plenary Meeting from July 4–7 at Wisma Syantikara in Yogyakarta, Indonesia, to restore women's rights and dignity.

The meeting was attended by 49 delegates from 36 dioceses in Indonesia, including 11 priests and several groups: Catholic Women of the Republic of Indonesia, Indonesian Nuns Association (IBSI), KWI’s Family Commission, Youth Commission, Commission for Peace, Justice, and Pastoral Migrants (KKP-PMP), and the Socio-Economic Development Commission (PSE).

The Archbishop Cornelius Sipayung of Medan, Moderator of SGPP KWI, talked at the opening service about walking together in fellowship, involvement, and the mission to struggle for justice and gender equality.

“Community, participation, and mission began with God. Since man's initial meeting with God, the term "communio" has been used to refer to God's relationship with a man. God also interacts, is involved, and is concerned with human needs. Jesus Christ, whom God sent into the world, represents the apex of creation,” the Archbishop said. 

He underlined further that Jesus' presence among humans is a saving presence. Through his right actions, Jesus demonstrates and sets an example for restoring the lost. Jesus did not simply speak but gave real example.

"The denial of women's rights, including their social and religious rights, is a barrier to gender equality," said the Archbishop, adding that "As people who care about gender equality and fairness, we must fight for the rights of those who have been mistreated or left out."

Sister M. Natalia, the Secretary of SGPP, said that the goal of the 2022 SGPP event was to: strengthen the KWI’s SGPP node in the fight for justice and gender equality; strengthen all parties to walk together in fellowship.

The nun stated that participation from all sides is necessary. Using the methods of sharing, talking, and learning together, there is a promise for the fight for justice and gender equality.

"It is hoped that the active participation of the participants will become a new source of energy for the gender revolution and give women power at all levels of society through labor and youth," sister Natalia said.

The conference included a visit to the Blembem Blessing Earth complex, one of the pastoral works of Sisters Carolus Boromeus (CB), designed to safeguard the environment and preserve the integrity of creation. 

"We wish to invite the participants of the plenary meeting to learn about the environment and how to empower women to participate in economic empowerment," said Thomas Supriyadi, one of the instructors of the plenary. 

Supriyadi said, "Use natural resources to support your family," adding that this effort can also be used as a way to preach.