Indonesia: Bishop Leads Planting of 5,000 Mangroves in South Lampung to Mark Earth Day

Bishop Vinsensius Setiawan Triatmojo of the Diocese of Tanjungkarang, in southern Sumatra, Indonesia, joined religious sisters, lay volunteers, and local community groups in planting 5,000 mangrove seedlings along the coast of South Lampung on April 25, 2026.

The coastal activity was organized by the Laudato Si’ Movement of the Diocese of Tanjungkarang as part of the Earth Day observance.

Sr. Vincentia (HK) of the Congregation of the Sacred Heart, who led the initiative, said this was the fourth mangrove planting effort conducted in coastal areas.

“This time, 5,000 mangrove seedlings were planted to mark Earth Day 2026,” she said. “Three congregations participated: the Sacred Heart Sisters (HK), the Franciscan Charitas Sisters (FCh), and the Sisters of St. Carolus Borromeus (CB).”

Although based in the Special Region of Yogyakarta, the Sisters of the Daughters of Mary and Joseph (PMY) contributed financial support for the seedlings. Additional assistance came from the Indonesian Union of Women Religious (IBSI) and other donors.

Among those present were members of several Catholic and community organizations, including:

• Divine Mercy Apostolate Community (KKKI)
• Indonesian Catholic Women’s Association (WKRI)
• Kawan Bhumi environmental community
• Representatives from Sribhawono Parish in Lampung
• Representatives from Bakauheni Pastoral Unit, a coastal ministry area near the ferry port linking Sumatra and Java
• Three diocesan priests: Fr. Totok Subianto, Fr. Astono, and Fr. Noven

Participants, including Bishop Triatmojo, took part directly in the planting along muddy coastal ground under humid conditions.  "I am very happy to be part of a community movement that cares for the environment; even though it may seem small and insignificant, it is a gateway to something greater in the future. I also seek to expand networks of collaboration with people of goodwill who are committed to caring for the environment," said Bishop Triatmojo.

Mangroves were chosen for their role in stabilizing coastlines, reducing erosion, and supporting marine biodiversity and local fisheries.

Sr. Vincentia said the initiative reflects the Diocese of Tanjungkarang’s integration of ecological concerns into its pastoral program.

“What was planted today is part of a longer commitment to ecological care and responsibility for future generations,” she said.

In addition to the environmental activity, around 30 basic food packages were distributed to local worm gatherers who depend on coastal ecosystems for their livelihood. The assistance was described by organizers as part of broader community solidarity linked to environmental action.

The initiative concluded with participants emphasizing the need for continued maintenance and community involvement to ensure the mangroves survive beyond the initial planting phase.