Jakarta – A wave of euphoria enveloped the Gelora Bung Karno (GBK) Jakarta, on Thursday (5/9), when tens of thousands of Catholics from all over the country gathered to attend Pope Francis’ Grand Mass.
Indonesian President Joko Widodo (Jokowi) welcomed Pope Francis before the Grand Mass at the GBK Main Stadium. Jokowi advised Catholics to rejoice together during this grand mass.
In his remarks, President Jokowi welcomed Pope Francis with great respect and joy.
“Today we rejoice in welcoming the visit of His Holiness the Holy Father Pope Francis. Indonesian Catholics also rejoice together because they can perform Holy Mass together with the Holy Father Pope Francis,” said Jokowi.
Jokowi emphasized the importance of the role of Catholics in maintaining national unity and spreading the values of love and tolerance amidst diversity.
“Catholics in Indonesia are an important part of this nation in maintaining unity, spreading love and tolerance with other religious communities in Indonesia,” he stressed.
President Jokowi also emphasized that differences are the wealth of the nation and tolerance is the fertilizer for unity and peace. He closed his remarks by wishing all Catholics present a happy mass.
“Finally, I wish you a happy Holy Mass service and may it be a blessing to others,” he said.
In his homily, the Supreme Leader of the Catholic Church throughout the world, Pope Francis, advised people to never give up on realizing peace on earth.
“Brothers and sisters, I also want to say to you, to this nation, to this amazing and diverse archipelago. Don’t get tired of sailing and casting your nets. Don’t get tired of dreaming and building again a peaceful civilization! Always dare to dream of brotherhood!” he said.
The Pope encouraged all Catholics in Indonesia to continue to spread love and confidently take the path of dialogue to resolve various problems.
“Continue to show kindness and kindness of heart with the distinctive smile that distinguishes you to be builders of unity and peace,” Pope Francis continued.
“In this way, you will spread the aroma of hope around you,” he continued. According to him, that is what the Bishops in Indonesia want.
For information, the grand mass at GBK was attended by around 80 thousand Catholics. Pope Francis also had time to greet the Catholic congregation who were present. The Pope was escorted around greeting and giving Rosary to the congregation.
