XI world union of jesuit alumni (wuja) conference reflection

At the beginning of January 2026, I accepted an invitation to join the WUJA 2026 Congress as a Youth Cadre representing Sanata Dharma University and as a staff member from Xavier Learning Community (XLC). I served as a bridge to share the mission of the Jesuit Foundation for Education in Thailand with the global community. On July 27, I travelled from Chiang Rai to Yogyakarta, asking myself what I could contribute to the congress. The gathering began with Mass at the Church of the Sacred Heart of Jesus in Ganjuran, where Catholic tradition was combined with Javanese culture through Gamelan music and traditional melodies. At the nearby Ganjuran temple, I found the silence and inner calm needed to prepare myself for the congress.

On July 30, we met Father General Arturo Sosa, SJ. I was appointed as one of the representatives to speak with him and hundreds of Jesuit alumni from around the world. I spoke not only as an alumnus of Sanata Dharma University but also as a voice for the marginalized hill-tribe youth and displaced students from Laos and Myanmar whom I serve at XLC in Chiang Rai. My connection with XLC began through an international teaching practicum in 2022, but it soon became a calling to support and empower young people.

During the assembly, I asked, “How can we dream big in a situation like this?” I encouraged the Society of Jesus, its global network, and its collaborators to create real opportunities for XLC graduates and alumni of Jesuit institutions worldwide. This was not merely an academic proposal but a plea for the survival and dignity of my students. The Youth Wings participants also built relationships through social activities and LEGO SERIOUS PLAY. Working with participants from Indonesia, India, Spain, and the Philippines, we developed a shared vision of WUJA as a community where diverse people belong, build meaningful relationships, grow together, and transform Ignatian values into collaborative service.

The congress ended with a special event at Prambanan Temple, but its spirit continued within us. We carried a small spark of hope back to our countries, workplaces, and communities. Standing before Father General and the global Jesuit family reminded me that even small voices can create meaningful change when grounded in truth. I returned to XLC with deeper faith, renewed passion, and stronger global connections. I remain committed to teaching, serving, walking alongside my students, and helping them achieve their dreams so that their voices may come together to create a beautiful melody for the world. Ite, Inflammate Omnia. Ad Maiorem Dei Gloriam.

by Yoannes Yuka Krisdianata