“Intergenerationality gives us reason for rejoicing and is one eloquent sign of our being confreres in a family that walks through history. The Chapter reminds us what Ratio Missionis Xaveriana (RMX) 40 states about the “insertion” of young missionaries. The examples of some of the elderly, who keep letting themselves be questioned by today’s chal[1]lenges, and are willing to sacrifice their own ideas, accept new assignments, etc., remind us of the importance to prepare to live well in old age. The XVIIGC pointed out that “we do not always offer adequate support to the members of our commu[1]nities, especially at times of fatigue or personal crisis” (XVIIGC 29).” (XVII General Chapter: Documents, 88)
How do we live in harmony amid our differences? This simple reflection will lead us to glimpse the lives of Xaverian missionaries.
Bhinneka Tunggal Ika
I started with the motto of Indonesia, Bhinneka Tunggal Ika. This motto is derived from two Old Javanese words: "Bhinneka" - This word comes from the Sanskrit word "bhinna," which means "different," "separate," or "diverse." It refers to the diversity and plurality of elements. "Tunggal Ika" - "Tunggal" means "one," while "ika" is an emphatic particle. Together, "Tunggal Ika" means "that is one" or "unity." So, the literal translation of "Bhinneka Tunggal Ika" from Old Javanese is: "Bhinneka" (Different/Diverse) + "Tunggal Ika" (Unity/One) = "Unity in Diversity."
The root words of the phrase highlight the concept of embracing diversity while maintaining unity and oneness. The word "bhinneka" acknowledges the variety of cultures, ethnicities, and backgrounds present in Indonesia, while "tunggal ika" emphasizes the idea of being united as a single nation.
The phrase's origin can be traced back to the 14th-century Old Javanese text "Kakawin Sutasoma," written during the Majapahit Empire. It was later adopted as the national motto of Indonesia after independence in 1945, symbolizing the country's commitment to promoting unity amidst its remarkable cultural diversity.
Why Bhinneka Tunggal Ika?
I want to invite you to understand the importance of Bhinneka Tunggal Ika from this simple reflection: intergenerational differences. In the Xaverian family, one of our characteristics is to live together in many differences, such as culture, personal uniqueness, and generations from the past to the current young generation. Since the time of basic formation, the brothers have been accustomed to living with senior missionaries to learn from them about the charism of the congregation and the missionary experiences they have had throughout their lives. The senior missionaries also allow themselves to be leaders in a community and traveling companions of the young missionaries. Of course, living together across generations takes work. We have experienced many challenges in our thinking and the missionary actions we take today.
Personal Experiences
How do I feel living with missionaries who differ in age, mission experience, and uniqueness? My answer is simple yet complex: awe. Since I entered the Xaverian family, this intergenerationalism has been a characteristic that has greatly enriched my faith life. I get a lot of inspiration from them, for example, from stories of their past missionary experiences, concrete actions that I experience and see myself (praying, eating together, sports, sharing experiences, etc.), and moral messages that can be in the form of criticism and reprimand when I make mistakes.
I also experienced many challenges when living with those older than me, for example, arguing about community life, apostolic work that was sometimes difficult to find definite answers to, or relationships that were not always good every day. Again, it is difficult to say I can live this intergenerational way. But there is a value that I want to achieve: togetherness as a family. I hope to learn from the seniors and that they can pray for those of us who are familiarizing ourselves with the mission in modern times. Time does go on and creates so many differences, but what is certain is the excellent relationship between young missionaries and senior missionaries.
Everything I experienced as a Xaverian was unexpected. Everything is always new, and what happens in my relationship with senior missionaries remains fruitful and wise. I learned a lot from them about life as a missionary, despite our weaknesses as human beings—their uniqueness as missionaries greatly enriched each other, especially the testimonies of the people who knew them. I pray, especially for the Xaverian family, wherever they are. Someday, when I am old like them, maybe I will get the same treatment as when I was young. So, always be fruitful in virtue and pray for each other.
