Indonesia’s Malang hosts first-ever Carmelite general chapter outside Europe

Carmelite friars don traditional Indonesian attire during the Order’s historic General Chapter in Malang, East Java. Photo credit: Indonesian Carmelite Order

The Carmelite Order marked a historic milestone this year as it held its General Chapter outside Europe for the first time, choosing Malang City in East Java, Indonesia, as its host.

The gathering, which took place in September, opened with a Mass at a convention hall in downtown Malang.

The Chapter was guided by the theme “Nostra Contemplativa Suas Missiones Discernit” (“Our Contemplation Discerns Our Mission”), which was drawn from Rule No. 20 of the Carmelite Order.

A global gathering with Indonesian flavour

Around 100 international delegates representing Carmelite provinces, general commissariats, and delegations from across the world attended the Chapter. Beyond its formal sessions, participants were invited to experience the beauty and cultural richness of Indonesia.

Carmelite delegates join Indonesian friars in a traditional batik-making activity during the Order’s General Chapter in Malang. Photo credit: Indonesian Carmelite Order

A highlight of the event came on September 14, when Carmelite seminarians — from postulants to perpetually professed friars — performed a Balinese-style dance drama of Rama and Shinta, captivating the audience with its artistry and spiritual symbolism.

Indonesian culture was woven throughout the proceedings, from the Opening Mass to the “Indonesian Night,” a lively showcase featuring traditional music and dance that celebrated the nation’s diversity. The performances featured local Malang artists, religious communities, and Carmelite brothers from various stages of formation.

New leadership for the Carmelite Order

The General Chapter also addressed pressing issues confronting the Order in a rapidly changing world. One of its key agenda items was the election of new leaders.

Carmelite friars from around the world gather for the Closing Mass of the General Chapter at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Cathedral in Malang. Photo credit: Indonesian Carmelite Order

Delegates elected Fr Desiderio García Martínez, O.Carm. of Spain as the Order’s new Prior General, and Fr FX Hariawan Adji, O.Carm. of Indonesia as the new Vice Prior General.

A Thanksgiving Mass was celebrated on September 21, 2025, to express gratitude for the new leadership and the fruitful outcomes of the Chapter.

The event concluded on September 26 with a Closing Eucharistic Celebration at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Cathedral, Ijen–Malang, presided over by Malang Diocese’s bishop, Msgr. Henricus Pidyarto Gunawan, himself a Carmelite friar, together with the newly elected councillors.

The liturgy was followed by a joyful fellowship, marking the end of a truly historic Chapter — one that reflected unity, contemplation, and divine inspiration within the Carmelite family.

By Fr. Augustinus Herjuno O.Carm, Indonesia

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