By: Andika Rachman)*
Pope Francis’ visit to Indonesia is a moment that is eagerly awaited by Catholics and the general public throughout the country. As the supreme leader of the Catholic Church and one of the most influential religious figures in the world, the arrival of Pope Francis can have a positive impact on interfaith relations and strengthen social harmony in Indonesia. Religious figures are enthusiastic about welcoming this historic visit, it is important for the entire community to maintain conduciveness and security, so that the event can be successful and harmonious.
Pope Francis’ visit to Indonesia is not just an ordinary pastoral visit, but also symbolic in strengthening the bonds of brotherhood between religious communities. Pope Francis is known for his open and inclusive attitude towards various religions and ethnicities, and his visit this time is expected to provide encouragement for peace and tolerance in Indonesia. In the context of Indonesia which is rich in cultural and religious diversity, the arrival of Pope Francis is an important momentum to strengthen the sense of unity and harmony.
Religious figures in Indonesia, both Catholic and non-Catholic, have issued various appeals to maintain conducive conditions during Pope Francis’ visit. These appeals include not only calls to avoid conflict, but also to actively participate in welcoming the visit with a positive and respectful attitude.
Archbishop of Jakarta, Ignatius Suharyo said Pope Francis had planned a visit to Indonesia since 2020, but was hampered by Covid-19. Therefore, Pope Francis’ visit now is a golden opportunity for Catholics and all Indonesian people to show the spirit of unity and love. This moment is expected to run peacefully and no party feels marginalized.
The Muslim community also showed support for Pope Francis’ visit. Minister of Religious Affairs Yaqut Cholil Qoumas said that the Indonesian government and people would welcome Pope Francis’ visit. This is an important momentum to strengthen bilateral relations between Indonesia and the Vatican and make Indonesia a barometer of harmonious and peaceful religious life.
The Ministry of Religious Affairs is tasked with ensuring that all religious communities in Indonesia can worship properly. Indonesia has six major religions, namely Islam, Catholicism, Christianity, Hinduism, Buddhism, and Confucianism. In order for religious life in Indonesia to run harmoniously, the Ministry of Religious Affairs seeks a moderate approach through religious education.
To ensure that Pope Francis’ visit is a success, various parties have made preparations and coordination. The Indonesian government, together with the Catholic Church and various community organizations, have designed a strict security plan to ensure that the event runs smoothly. In addition, public campaigns to spread messages of peace and tolerance are also being intensively carried out.
The Chairman of the Muhammadiyah Central Leadership (PP) welcomed the visit of the Catholic Church Leader Pope Francis to Indonesia from 3-6 September 2024. The Chairman of the Muhammadiyah Central Leadership (PP), Syafiq A. Mughni said that Muhammadiyah welcomed the arrival of Pope Francis. This is a visit that has symbolic and substantive meaning in building human brotherhood.
This visit should also be interpreted as meaning that the Indonesian nation still needs a common definition of the situation at the national and international levels and to be an answer to align perceptions between countries in the world in viewing various global issues such as extremism, climate crisis, and differences between rich and poor countries.
The community is expected to play an active role in welcoming the visit in a positive manner. Catholics are expected to attend the events held, while the general public is invited to help maintain a conducive atmosphere. Active participation from all groups is essential to ensure that the visit leaves a good impression and strengthens interfaith relations.
Interfaith dialogue is one solution to overcome potential tensions. By opening up space for discussion and interaction between religious leaders and the community, it is hoped that a deeper understanding will be created and the risk of friction will be reduced. This dialogue can also strengthen a shared commitment to maintaining harmony and peace.
Pope Francis’ visit to Indonesia is a rare opportunity that must be utilized to the fullest. The appeal from religious leaders to maintain conduciveness and security is a very important step to ensure that this event can run successfully and bring benefits to all parties.
With thorough preparation, support from all groups, and mutual respect, it is hoped that this visit can be a historic moment that strengthens unity and harmony in Indonesia. Hopefully the arrival of Pope Francis can inspire and encourage us all to continue to maintain peace and tolerance in our daily lives.
)* The author is a student at the University of Jakarta.
