UNS – The Christian Community of Universitas Sebelas Maret (UNS) Surakarta and the Institut Seni Indonesia (ISI) Surakarta held their 2024 Christmas and 2025 New Year Celebration. The event took place at the G.P.H. Haryo Mataram Auditorium, UNS, on Thursday (16/1/2025).
The celebration began with a joint prayer led by Drs. Ignatius Agung Satyawan, S.E., S.Ikom., M.Si., Ph.D., followed by opening remarks from Prof. Ari Natalia Probandari, dr., M.P.H., Ph.D., Chairperson of the 2024 Christmas and 2025 New Year Celebration Committee.
In her speech, Prof. Ari highlighted the theme of this year’s celebration: “Let Us Now Go to Bethlehem” (LUKE 2:15).
“This event is part of the annual activities organized by the Christian Community of UNS and ISI Surakarta. This year, it was preceded by a social service activity, specifically health check-ups, held at the UNS Primary Medical Center Clinic on January 9. A total of 127 cleaning service employees from UNS and ISI received free medical check-ups provided by the team from the UNS Primary Medical Center and UNS Hospital,” Prof. Ari said.
A Collaboration Between Two Universities
The Rector of ISI Surakarta, Dr. I Nyoman Sukerna, S.Kar., M.Hum., emphasized in his remarks that this joint Christmas celebration symbolizes a shared sense of brotherhood and strengthens unity in fostering a life filled with peace and joy.
“The chosen theme reflects the spirit of seeking faith and truth. It is a simple yet profound theme, reminding us of humanity’s purpose and hope for salvation. We hope this theme inspires us to embody humility and genuine dedication as a form of gratitude,” Dr. I Nyoman explained.
Meanwhile, the Rector of UNS, Prof. Dr. Hartono, dr., M.Si., remarked that Christmas is a special moment carrying a universal message of love, peace, and hope. In an academic environment filled with diverse backgrounds, the spirit of Christmas serves as a reminder to maintain harmony and tolerance.
“Christmas encourages us to spread goodness, uphold inclusivity, and instill a spirit of peace in every step we take. The strong relationship between UNS and ISI is concrete proof that inter-institutional collaboration enriches academic perspectives while fostering bonds of brotherhood. This spirit of unity must be preserved and passed down to future generations, ensuring that the values of unity, togetherness, and mutual respect continue to thrive in our academic community,” Prof. Hartono added.
This year’s Christmas celebration was attended by two religious leaders, Father Fransiskus Kristino Mari Asisi, SJ, and Reverend Dr. Ir. Timotius Haryono, M.Th. The Mayor of Surakarta, Drs. Teguh Prakosa, also graced the event with his presence. The celebration concluded with intercessory prayers led by Father Fransiskus, followed by a group photo session and a friendly gathering.
Humas UNS
- Reporter: Dikky Yudi Pradana
- Editor: Dwi Hastuti
