In Kupang on the Indonesian island of Timor, 23 board members from KOLPING Indonesia and KOLPING Timor-Leste met for joint board training from January 20 to 22. The participants traveled from the dioceses of Weetebula, Ruteng, Kupang, Dili, Maliana and Baucau – some of them spent two days traveling by ship, a strong sign of their commitment.
The seminar was led by Dr. Markus Demele, General Secretary of KOLPING INTERNATIONAL, who had traveled from Germany especially for the event. In intensive and dialogue-oriented working sessions, topics included the identity and history of the Kolping Movement, the role and responsibilities of board members, Kolping’s approach to development, and the protection of children and young people. “These were days of intense content and a fraternal atmosphere. The amount of time and energy that the leadership invest in the volunteer work is deeply moving and admirable,” emphasized Dr. Markus Demele. “They do this with the aim of strengthening Kolping Families in Indonesia and Timor-Leste in their self-help activities and being a strong voice for justice in their countries.”
The national leaders also drew a positive conclusion. The president of KOLPING Indonesia, Adam Musi, explained: “This seminar reaffirms our identity as Kolping members and the direction in which we are moving.” Maria Ligia, president of KOLPING Timor-Leste, added: “We are returning home with new hope and strength.” The board training was an important step in further consolidating the associations in Indonesia and Timor-Leste as a strong, united community – working together in the service of the Church and society.
