Indonesian Church reaches out to marginalized people

Ruteng Diocese’s Health Commission gave free medical exams and treatment to the people of St. Mikael Beanio and students. The students donated blood for humanitarian reasons at the Catholic University of Saint Paul in Flores, Indonesia, on February 11 and 12.

The Ruteng Diocese Health Commission chairman, Father Ignasius F. R. Bora, told RVA news that the humanitarian event was held in honor of the 30th World Day of the Sick (HOSS), celebrated on October 30 every year.

In his statement, Father Bora said that more than 1,000 devotees received free medical check-ups and collected 30 bags of blood from students voluntarily.

This humanitarian work is also in line with Pope Francis' HOSS theme for 2022: "Be merciful, just as your Father is merciful" (Luke 6:36).

"The Ruteng Diocese Church, through the Health Commission, has implemented the invitation to be generous for those who are sick, suffering, and in need of humanitarian activities for their parishioners who are sick, suffering, and in need of medical assistance," said Father Bora.

According to Father Bora, Beanio Parish was chosen because, despite its size, many people still refuse or are hesitant to have their health tested at a clinic or regional hospital due to restricted access, cost, reluctance, or laziness. They are not interested in being disturbed or kept busy.

Father Bora explained that this initiative aims to bring medical and health services closer to people by bringing health professionals, doctors, nurses, and medicines via the Manggarai District Health Office.

Meanwhile, "The Humanitarian Blood Donation activity on February 12 is also a series of 30th HOSS activities, which aims to make people and students aware of the importance of sharing and being generous to others who are sick, especially those who need blood specifically" Father Bora explained.

Bishop Sipri Hormat appreciated the implementation of these humanitarian activities.

Citing Bishop Hormat, he stressed the importance of synergy and cooperation between the Church as Pastor of the People and the government and the community in dealing with central humanitarian issues together and on target as a form of authentic expression of solidarity.

Meanwhile, Father Bora claimed that the recipients appreciated the free medical service. "We're happy, enthusiastic, and thanked the church for providing it," one of the beneficiaries said.

However, he acknowledged that the activity was not without problems. In addition to the challenging terrain for people living in stations to come to the parish center, there is also a lack of awareness about the importance of regular health checks.

Father Bora hopes that the collaborative spirit between church and state in handling people's health issues will improve.

"Being kind to others means giving them physical and spiritual help when they need it," Father Bora concluded.

Ruteng Diocese is in East Nusa Tenggara Province on Flores Island. The diocesan territory includes Manggarai, West Manggarai, and East Manggarai. It is bounded by the Sape Strait, the archdiocese of Ende, the Flores Sea, and the Sawu Sea.