Fr. Santoso, missionary in Macau. In March 2025, he underwent last year surgery on his foot due to complications from diabetes. He did not give up, and during this time, he discovered something he had never imagined before.
Fr. Santoso is one of the ICA missionaries residing in Macau. In March 2025, he underwent surgery on his foot due to complications from diabetes. He did not give up, and during this time, he discovered something he had never imagined before: he found the opportunity to paint. What follows is his personal reflection.
For eight months, I was recovering from leg surgery. My right leg had to be amputated below the knee because of diabetes.
During this recovery period, I lived in an attitude of complete surrender. When I reflected on this past year, I called it “A Year of Surrender.” I expressed this reflection in one of my paintings as I celebrated my 28th anniversary of religious life.
My experience throughout those eight months was as follows: From March 2–21, 2025, I stayed at Januario Hospital in Macau. From March 22 to May 29, 2025, I lived at the SCJ Community in Macau. Then, from May 30 to October 17, 2025, I underwent intensive rehabilitation and continued to stay at Januario Hospital. I now reside at the Formatio House with four SCJ brothers who are on study assignments. I am currently still waiting for my prosthetic leg.
I had a unique experience during this time: while recovering in the hospital, I had the chance to paint in between therapy sessions. I create art using the “Nagomi” method, working with pastels and shaping the colors with my fingers. To date, I have completed more than 100 paintings. I have given some of them to doctors, nurses, and parishioners who requested them.
Painting has become a special journey for me. In each piece, I include a message that reflects whatever is in my heart and mind. Each painting is a beautiful combination of image and message. This experience has renewed my enthusiasm for life. My life remains colorful, like the blend of shades in my artwork, coming together in harmony.
“A Year of Surrender” has been a time for me to embrace the new opportunities God has given me. Of course, I can no longer be as active as before, but now I choose to continue serving by mentoring young Dehonian brothers who are studying at St. Joseph University.
I promise myself that my life will continue to have meaning and harmony—as a Dehonian priest.
