Today we got to visit some of the K-12 schools in the same foundation as the university hosting us (UPH-Universitas Pelita Harapan). The first school we visited was Sekolah Pelita Harapan (SPH), a preK-12 international school with about 2000 students. This school holds special significance for one of our students, Antonius Priyanto, as it’s where he met his wife and where their children attended for a few years. It was great learning about his community, as it has been throughout our time in Indonesia. The school itself has a beautiful campus and the students are exposed to an integrative, interdisciplinary, Christ-centered education. We got to learn how to play some traditional Indonesian instruments called the gamelan – oval-shaped metallic instruments – and we even had a mini ensemble performance showcasing our new skills! Later on, we got to interact with the grade 8-9 students as they showcased their skills on other traditional instruments called the anklung, which are tube-shaped bamboo instruments. We also got to join them as they taught us how to play the instruments. Afterwards, we got to present a few songs as well as some fun skills, such as beat-boxing, clarinet and double-bass playing, and theatre songs. The beatboxing was definitely a hit and we had a battle between one of our students, Gavin, and Abraham, one of the SPH students.
Following our art ministrations, we had lunch and got to hear from the school head and founder about the story of the foundation’s origins and their ministry. Many of us were moved by their heart to provide Indonesia with integrative education and serve the children with the heart of Christ. Perhaps we will come again to join in the mission…
We then returned to UPH and got to hear from the students at Sekolah Lentera Harapan (SLH), another school in the same network as SPH and UPH. It was fun meeting with these students as we had already had such a fun time with them on Sunday (this was the group we had lunch with after the services). We also got to play some games with them, integrating music and fun. We also got to share some American candy (that we hope they enjoy for a long time without any cavities! 😊)
Our last main activity for the day was our joint performance with UPH’s Pelita University Singers (or PLUS as they call themselves!). Before the performance, they served as a beautiful meal with cake-shaped rice and various meats and vegetables around. We have definitely enjoyed trying all the Indonesian delicacies and their hospitality! It was great to perform one last time with the UPH choir because we have performed with them since Sunday morning, so a great ending to our time in Jakarta. After a great performance, we got to explore the area surrounding the university with a mall and great meal options.
Although it is sad that this is our last night in Jakarta, it was definitely a memorable one! We have been blessed by the body of Christ expressed through the Indonesian culture and we are excited for what else Indonesia has to offer over the next few days!
- Written by Revina Karani
