Sr. Francesco Marianti, OSU, emphasized that women must be equal to men. One way to achieve that equality is through education.
This forms the foundation of Francesco’s long journey at Ursula Catholic School, an institution dedicated to educating young women.
She dedicated over 50 years of her life to service until her passing yesterday, December 16, 2024, at the age of 90.
For Francesco, creating a better world starts with a commitment to serve. This belief aligns with the motto of the Ursuline School: Serviam—”I will serve.”
“I strive to give my all, always doing my best. For as long as I can, I will continue to serve,” she once said.
“We were not created for ourselves. While we receive so much, it is not meant for us alone—it’s meant to be shared with others. That is the essence of service. That is Serviam.”
For Francesco, being a woman means becoming a whole person—holistic, intelligent, and brave enough to serve.
She believed that a whole person is shaped by values like discipline, independence, honesty, cooperation, sensitivity, religiosity, a fighting spirit, respect, responsibility, and love for the environment.
At the same time, being holistic means more than academic excellence. “Being smart isn’t enough,” she often said. “Don’t just be a bookworm—be active, pursue various activities, and keep learning.”
These principles are what Francesco instilled in her students throughout her life.
It’s no surprise that Francesco earned a reputation for being disciplined and strict. Among Ursula alumni, she was often described as fierce, but deeply respected.
A defining feature of Ursula’s educational philosophy is social subsidy. Tuition fees are adjusted based on each family’s financial capacity, enabling students from underprivileged backgrounds to receive the same quality education as their peers.
“I always remind parents to contribute according to their means. Whatever they can afford is enough for us to accept,” Francesco explained.
Francesco extended this vision of equality to Ursula’s campus in BSD City, Serpong, South Tangerang, which she designed with an open, green concept.
She introduced her students to hydroponic gardening, medicinal plants, and waste sorting, fostering habits that align with a green lifestyle.
“We must prepare children with an environment that is comfortable, clean, green, and healthy. Some of our students come from small, crowded homes without yards. Here, we provide them with space to play, breathe fresh air, and feel at ease,” she said.
Unintentionally, Francesco incorporated the principles of children’s rights into Ursula’s school environment. “Children have the right to play, to education, to protection, and to health,” she often emphasized.
“I was born in Indonesia, I live in Indonesia, and I was educated in Indonesia. I must have the courage to serve Indonesia in my own way,” she declared.
Over the span of her career, Francesco mentored thousands of students. She remained unwavering in her mission to shape individuals who contribute not just to themselves but to society at large. Her legacy is a vision of being 100% Catholic and 100% Indonesian.
