UNS — The Christian Community Association of Universitas Sebelas Maret (UNS) Surakarta and the Institut Seni Indonesia (ISI) Surakarta jointly organized the Christmas Celebration 2023 and New Year 2024. The event took place at the “Gendhon Humardani” Grand Theater at ISI Surakarta on Thursday (18/1/2024). Present at the occasion were UNS Vice Rector for Research and Innovation, Prof. Dr. Kuncoro Diharjo, S.T., M.T., and ISI Surakarta Rector, Dr. I Nyoman Sukerna, S.Kar., M.Hum.
Renaldi Lestianto Utomo Putro, M.Sn., the Chairman of the Christmas Celebration 2023 and New Year 2024, stated that the joint celebration by the Christian Community Association of UNS and ISI Surakarta is a regular event held every year. “The activity is carried out in collaboration between the two institutions. This year, the Christian Community Association of ISI has the honor of hosting the Christmas Celebration 2023 and New Year 2024. As for the implementation of social service (Baksos) held on Wednesday (17/1/2024), it took place at the UNS Medical Center,” Renaldi explained.
Renaldi hopes that this joint activity can enhance unity and harmony among Christian communities between UNS and ISI Surakarta.
Meanwhile, UNS Rector, Prof. Dr. Jamal Wiwoho, S.H., M.Hum., represented by UNS Vice Rector for Research and Innovation, Prof. Dr. Kuncoro Diharjo, S.T., M.T., conveyed that Christmas has become a moment that continually touches the heart, reminding us of the boundless love given by God. Christmas is not just about the presence of sparkling decorations and beautiful messages but also about lighting the flame of goodness in the hearts of those who celebrate it.
With the theme of Christmas 2023, ‘Glory to God and Peace on Earth,’ it suggests that the choice to live in harmony and full of love is the best choice taught by God to everyone, a choice that must be fought for and must thrive in communal, national, and state life. The demand to live side by side in togetherness is a gift from God that must be embraced.
“Therefore, I would like to invite the Christian communities of UNS and ISI Surakarta to pioneer a culture of peaceful and brotherly living in the beautiful symphony of togetherness. Let us share happiness, warmth, and love with others. Remember that behind every Christmas story there is a message about justice, humility, and goodness,” Prof. Kuncoro stated.
Meanwhile, ISI Surakarta Rector, Dr. I Nyoman Sukerna, S.Kar., M.Hum., stated that this year’s Christmas theme invites us all to reflect according to human values, peace, and the harmony of living together. Let us make this theme a guide to prospering in a life full of love, tolerance, and justice in society.
“This event is the result of collaboration between the Christian Community Association of UNS and ISI. This collaboration reflects the spirit of togetherness and tolerance in the campus community, which we hope can be an example for the entire nation and also a beautiful moment to celebrate togetherness amidst differences. Thank you to the invited guests, who come from different religious backgrounds. Diversity is a gift, and when united, it becomes strong,” Dr. I Nyoman Sukerna said. HUMAS UNS
Editor: Dwi Hastuti
