As a series of events, Christmas 2016 and New Year 2017, Parahyangan Catholic University (Unpar) held its Christmas Mass in the Lobby of the Rectorate building of Unpar, on Thursday (5/01). Taking the theme “Sharing Love in Diversity”, this mass was led by Father B. Hendra Kimawan, OSC.
Describing the theme on this occasion, Father Hendra, as he is familiarly called, stated that difference or diversity exists among us. Differences or diversity were created to be mutually complementary and unify one another. Not to bring each other down or cause disharmony or disunity. If we can all complement each other, the difference is synonymous to a rainbow that has many colors but still remains a ‘rainbow’. If there is only one color in the rainbow, it would be unattractive and unpleasant. According to him, the diversity is like an orchestra, creating a harmony, a symphony of fun and happiness. If there is only one instrument, it might seem bland. But when joined together, united in diversity it becomes a wonderful piece of music.
“There’s nothing wrong with diversity. There is nothing wrong with a difference. The problem is our selfishness in viewing the difference, “he said.
“If we focus on the differences, we will fight. If we focus on the good things from diversity, surely we will be stronger, “added Rama Hendra, who currently serves as Secretary of the Unpar’s Foundation.
Citing the words of Pope Francis, Father Hendra said that wherever people listen to each other, with an attitude of humility and openness, they share with each other the virtues and aspirations that will be more obvious. The difference is no longer seen as a threat but as a source of wealth.
Rama Hendra Unpar invited residents together to learn to live with kindness, to love everyone, even if they do not love us. “And we have to be a ‘bridge’ for the sake of that,” the message.
“We got something beautiful out of our diversity by sharing the love, thus harmony may occur among us. Rainbow makes Unpar more and more beautiful, “said Father Hendra closing Christmas Mass celebrations attended by the academic society of Unpar.
