RANCHO BERNARDO — The Indonesian Catholic community celebrated its new home at San Rafael Parish with a special Mass presided over by Auxiliary Bishop Ramón Bejarano.
Around 120 faithful of all ages turned out on Sept. 21, many wearing traditional attire. The Mass included a multi-generational choir, Sunday school students, youth and young adults.
The community had been based at Guardian Angels Parish in Santee for about 13 years. However, a survey of members showed that 57% lived across North County, said Ben Liem, the community’s long-time activities coordinator. It made sense to find a home in that region.
Last summer, the community arrived at San Rafael, where the pastor, Father Jay Bananal, became its spiritual adviser. Liem estimated the community has about 200 members. They gather together for Mass on the third Saturday of the month at 1 p.m. The rest of the time, they attend and serve in their neighborhood parish.
“You not only bring your faith and your love, but you also bring your culture,” Bishop Bejarano told the Mass-goers. “All cultures are a gift from God. The Indonesian culture is a gift from God. And you are a gift to the Diocese of San Diego.”
See a photo gallery of the Mass at thesoutherncross.org/Indonesian.
