*FAJAR AKTUAL* _Edition: Wednesday, July 1, 2026_
_Ropa, Ende_ – Amid the crashing waves of the southern coast of Ende, there stands a simple yet sturdy building. There, three nuns from the Philippines of the Congregation of the Sisters of St. Anne / SCSA carry out their mission, spreading an unceasing love for the people of Ropa Parish, Archdiocese of Ende.
It has been exactly one year since the SCSA Congregation arrived in the parish shepherded by Fr. Yohanes Raja Sola, more affectionately known to the congregation as Romo Hendra. Though still new, the sisters’ loving presence has already flowed deeply into the hearts of the faithful.
*Learning the Language, Learning the Hearts of the People*
When met briefly at the convent, Sister Yosefina spoke with sparkling eyes. Even short encounters with parishioners leave a profound impression.
“The sisters came with a burning missionary spirit. We don’t just serve, we also strive hard to learn Indonesian, even the local Ende/Ropa language, so we can truly enter the hearts of the people,” Sister Yosefina said.
That effort has not been in vain. Now, greetings like “Ine,” “Ame,” and “Ka’e” flow fluently from the lips of Sister Yosefina and her two companions from the Philippines. They continue to walk among the people, introducing themselves and discerning the needs of the local community. They are present with the faithful, teaching catechism, visiting the sick, accompanying youth groups, and becoming friends to the children in Sekami.
*A Mission House by the Waves, Awaiting the Budding of Vocations*
The convent they occupy is indeed simple. Its walls stand firm against the sea wind, its roof faithfully shelters the prayers lifted each morning. From the convent veranda, the crashing waves become the soundtrack to their silence.
Yet from that humble place radiates a great longing. With a gentle smile, Sister Yosefina shared her hope:
“We deeply long for young women in Indonesia, especially in Ende and Ropa, to come and see. Join us in the SCSA Congregation. Here, together, we become the face of St. Anne’s Love for the world.”
That longing is not without reason. Amid the challenges of the times, the sisters believe that the seeds of vocation are still being sown by God in the land of Flores. Their task is to nurture them so they may grow strong.
*One Year, A Million Acts of Love*
One year of ministry in Ropa Parish proves that mission is not always about grand buildings. Mission is about a heart willing to stay, ears willing to listen, and feet willing to walk alongside the people.
Like the coral on Ropa Beach that remains steadfast against the waves, so too is the spirit of the three SCSA sisters from the Philippines. They are here not to become great, but to be a sign that God’s Love is real and near.
For young women whose hearts are moved to know more about the way of life of the Sisters of St. Anne, the convent door on the shores of Ropa Beach is always open. For there, the seed of your vocation is waiting to grow.
_End of Report_
_Ana Funan_
