Every year on 17 August, the people of Indonesia are reminded of the sacred moment when the Proclamation of Independence was declared in 1945. At Petra Acitya Christian Senior High School, this year’s commemoration was marked with a meaningful celebration, blending reverence, joy, and creativity. We believe that independence is a blessing from God, one that must be celebrated not only with cheer and festivity but also with hearts full of gratitude. For this reason, the celebration began with a worship service, which became the foundation of the entire event. Through prayers, songs of praise, and reflection on God’s Word, the school community was reminded that true freedom comes from the Lord who sets His people free. The service also strengthened our resolve to live as a generation of faith, committed to God and to our nation.

After the service, the atmosphere turned lively with the traditional game of gobak sodor. Laughter, cheers, and the sound of footsteps filled the school grounds. Gobak sodor is more than just a game—it reflects the spirit of unity, teaching strategy, teamwork, and sportsmanship. Every chase and every defense seemed to symbolize the nation’s own journey: one that demands perseverance, struggle, and unyielding courage. By reviving traditional games, the younger generation is reminded to honour and preserve Indonesia’s cultural heritage that binds people together across time.

The celebration continued with a fashion show competition inspired by the richness of Indonesia’s nature and culture. Students proudly showcased their creative designs, drawing inspiration from batik patterns, natural elements, and the beauty of Indonesia’s flora and fauna. Each performance was more than a display of artistry; it was a testimony to the wealth and diversity of our beloved homeland. Through fashion, students expressed gratitude for God’s blessings on this nation and demonstrated that the younger generation is ready to carry forward the treasures entrusted to them.

The entire celebration became a beautiful symphony of faith, joy, and creativity. From the heartfelt worship, to the energetic gobak sodor, to the dazzling fashion show, every activity carried the spirit of independence. At Petra Acitya Christian Senior High School, we believe that independence is not merely a historical event but a gift to be lived out each day. As the Word of God reminds us, “It is for freedom that Christ has set us free” (Galatians 5:1). With that spirit, we are called to live in gratitude, to create with love, and to stand united in Christ—bringing light and hope to our nation and to the world.