"A married couple linked to the Indonesian terrorist group Jamaah Ansharut Daulah detonateda bomb as they drove through the church's gate. Thankfully, although more than a dozen were wounded, no church-goers were killed in the attack.
"Valeri suffered various degrees of burns and went through several rounds of surgeries in the following days. Along with part of her face, both of Valeri's arms were severely burned. The injury impeded her fingers' mobility, especially on her right hand, to where even clenching her fists provided to be difficult. But Valeri remains optimistic, saying, "Thank God am left-handed.
"Valeri remains grateful, despite having endured so much pain. She has tried several surgeries, including skin grafts, but none have worked out as well as hoped. From a trying recovery, limited help offered by the government, to her impaired eyesight, the journey has certainly not been easy.
"Yet, the attack has not deterred her from going to church every week. During Holy Week in 2022, she returned to Makassar Cathedral Church to attend the same Palm Sunday mass. The priest was surprised to spot her and asked her why she was there. She told him, feel peace in my heart." The tragedy has not scarred her spirit.
"Valeri has endured much hardship and has been left with scars to remind her daily, but her faith shines through. They are a testament of her belief in God as she continues to share about God's grace in her life with others. We're also happy to report Valeri has taken an internship at a hospital where she received care."