Joy and praises echoed as students and faculty members commemorated the birth of Jesus Christ on the third floor of the E building at Universitas Dian Nuswantoro (Udinus). Christian students and faculty members were seen sharing moments as a congregation at a Christmas event.

The event was held by the Christian Student Association at Udinus with the theme ‘Perfect Gift.’ The event mainly consisted of a sermon delivered by a priest named Christopher Indra. During his sermon, Christopher stated that the birth of Jesus was a perfect gift to the world. On that occasion, the congregation lit the candles symbolizing the birth of Jesus that brought humanity an ultimate light.

This sermon was attended by Prof. Dr. Ir. Edi Noersasongko, M.Kom.—the Rector of Udinus, Prof. Dr. Dra Kusni Ingsih, M.M.—the Vice Rector III of Student Affairs at Udinus, and Prof. Dr. Pulung Nurtantio Andono, S.T., M.Kom.,—the Vice Rector IV of Research and Partnership Affairs.

Joseph Amadeus Candra, the Chief of the Organizer of this event, explained that ‘Perfect Gift’ was chosen as a theme to remind the congregation that the birth of Jesus Christ was a perfect gift to humanity. He also hoped for the congregation to understand truly the essence of the message of this sermon.

“Hopefully, the congregation can grasp the true meaning of ‘Perfect Gift’ and how God’s love will always dwell within us so we can be compassionate with each other, as well as nature,” Joseph explained.

In addition to the sermon, faculty members also showcased a musical performance by singing a song entitled ‘Sakjeke Aku Nderek Gusti.’ The joyous atmosphere became more apparent when the entire congregation sang along. At the end of the event, they wished each other a Merry Christmas, adding a warm atmosphere and a sense of companionship.

During his opening speech, Prof. Dr. Ir. Edi Noersasongko, M.Kom—the Rector of Udinus—also wish the whole congregation a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. Furthermore, he stated that the joy of Christmas should also be carried every day not only on Christmas.

“The recent appointment of five professors at Udinus is not only a joy for individuals but also a token of pride for the whole academic community,” he emphasized.

At the end of his speech, Prof. Edi encouraged the whole academic community at Udinus to uphold religious tolerance as a core belief in every religion. 

“Hopefully, the blessing of Christmas and New Year will bring Udinus to a new height in the future. Furthermore, I also wish to emphasize that every religion has its own way of sharing joyous spirits with each other,” Prof. Edi concluded. (Humas Udinus/Alex. Foto: Humas Udinus)