The Society of Jesus in Indonesia celebrated the opening of its newest centre for research and advocacy, PRAKSIS, on 10 December, coinciding with World Human Rights Day. PRAKSIS is envisioned to serve as the “spokesperson” of the Society of Jesus in Indonesia in public discussions on pressing social issues.
The inauguration ceremony began with a Eucharistic celebration at the Chapel of St Peter Canisius in Jakarta. Indonesian Provincial Fr Benny Juliawan SJ presided over the Mass, attended by the Foundation Management team and the PRAKSIS Board of Directors. In his homily, Fr Juliawan likened PRAKSIS to Jesus’ call in the Sermon on the Mount to be a light to the world. He highlighted the centre’s mission to present Catholic ideas and perspectives in support of Indonesia’s democratisation process.
PRAKSIS has received strong support from various sectors. In her keynote speech, Alissa Wahid, National Coordinator of the GUSDURian Network, emphasised the vital role of institutions such as PRAKSIS in strengthening democracy.
The event’s highlight was the presentation of the results of PRAKSIS’s first research, “Seeking Democracy that Promotes the Common Good.” The publication examines the challenges of Indonesian democracy in the last decade (2014-2024), particularly the narrowing space for citizen participation and the shrinking middle class. The report concludes with recommendations to protect human dignity and civil liberties, empower grassroots communities, and promote just economic policies in line with Catholic Social Teaching.
PRAKSIS is designed to be a knowledge centre that combines scientific analysis with the insight of the Catholic faith. Its operations are anchored in three pillars: research, advocacy, and education. The centre aims to produce innovative and implementable studies on social, political, and economic issues; advocate for policies that serve the common good; and organise seminars, courses, and workshops to introduce Catholic Social Teaching and address contemporary challenges.
The centre has set an ambitious agenda for the year. The Research and Advocacy Division will focus on four main themes and routinely hold a PRAKSIS Forum. Meanwhile, the Public Engagement Division will organise seminars, courses, workshops, and retreats to deepen Catholics’ understanding of their faith, with strong emphasis on Catholic Social Teaching. Its inaugural seminar, scheduled for next month, will explore the significance and impact of Pope Francis’ apostolic visit to Indonesia last year.
PRAKSIS believes that there is no common good without mutual involvement. Inspired by the call of Pope Francis to “Fate Chiass!” or “Make a sound that echoes!” the centre seeks to foster partnerships that resonate with its mission. [Heinrich Angga Indraswara SJ]