By: Ferdy Bartolomeus )*
Indonesian painter Denny Januar Ali, who is known as one of the country’s leading artists, has created a stunning artwork to welcome the historic visit of the World Catholic Church Leader Pope Francis to Indonesia. The painting, depicting harmony and unity amidst diversity, was created as a form of respect for the values of humanity and tolerance brought by the Pope in each of his visits to various countries. This artwork not only adds to the beauty of the Indonesian art world, but also carries a profound message about the importance of maintaining harmony between religious communities amidst differences.
Denny JA, an internationally renowned artist, has long used art as a medium to convey social and humanitarian messages. His works often reflect society’s struggles in dealing with complex issues such as democracy, freedom, and justice. In his latest painting themed on the arrival of Pope Francis, Denny reaffirms his commitment to raising important issues through art, this time focusing on the importance of religious tolerance.
In the painting “Pope to Indonesia #1” he depicts two veiled women kneeling (not worshiping) before the Pope. The Pope greets them calmly while saluting. In front of the two women is an old man sitting in a wheelchair. We see that the wheelchair is being pushed by an old woman. Around them stand many people who are all rejoicing. From the setting depicted, it can be assumed that they are in the courtyard of an Islamic boarding school complex.
The painting “Pope to Indonesia #2” depicts the Pope holding a child in his arms solemnly. Meanwhile, around the boy stand other children who show cheerful faces. Some of the children clasp their hands in a gesture of prayer and hope. Around the children are their parents who are all smiling happily. Behind the crowd, aha, a magnificent mosque is visible, ready to broadcast the call to prayer. A painting that emphasizes how togetherness in diversity is truly enjoyable and always provides noble hopes.
The painting “Pope to Indonesia #3” presents the visit of clerics and people of various religions to the Pope’s place when he was in Indonesia. In the courtyard of the church building with the red and white flag, the Pope pays his respects to those who visit. Happiness seems to be intertwined.
As for Denny JA himself, he said that these paintings are just imaginations of longing for a leader who moves with his heart, and authentically serves humanity. Whatever his religion, country, gender, ethnicity, or cultural identity.
The arrival of Pope Francis to Indonesia, which was greeted with so much enthusiasm, is indeed a moment that is highly anticipated by many parties. Pope Francis will be the third Pope to visit Indonesia, after Pope Paul VI in 1970 and Pope John Paul II in 1989.
Head of General Affairs and Human Resources at the Istiqlal Mosque Management Agency (BPMI), Ismail Cawidu, said that his party had made a number of preparations to welcome the arrival of Pope Francis. Istiqlal continues to coordinate with the Cathedral Church, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs protocol, and other related agencies.
The Pope is expected to try out the Silaturahmi Tunnel that connects the Istiqlal Mosque with the Cathedral. The Grand Imam of Istiqlal, KH. Nasaruddin Umar hopes that Pope Francis can pass through the underground tunnel that is called a symbol of religious harmony. The Silaturahmi Tunnel is said to be an icon of diversity and a symbol of coexistence between religious communities.
Nasaruddin Umar added that the underground crossing was built not only to connect two places. The tunnel was made based on the philosophy of human relations.
In addition, the Spokesperson for the Committee for the Pope’s Visit to Indonesia, Father Thomas Ulun Ismoyo emphasized the importance of spiritual support from all people so that the Pope’s visit runs smoothly. Father Ulun added that the Church has distributed a special prayer to welcome the arrival of Pope Francis since June 29. He invited the people to read the prayer every Sunday.
Father Ulun also reminded that welcoming the Pope is not only limited to his physical presence. But also welcoming the ideas and thoughts of the Holy Father and implementing them in various aspects of life. He said, to welcome the Pope’s visit, many parishes have held activities such as joint prayers, book reviews, and discussions.
Finally, Father Ulun added that the theme of the Pope’s visit to Indonesia is Faith, Fraternity, and Compassion. The theme is expected to inspire Indonesian Catholics to further strengthen their faith, strengthen their brotherhood, and increase their social awareness.
Pope Francis’ visit to Indonesia in September 2024 is a highly anticipated moment, not only by Catholics but by all Indonesian people. This visit is also a strong symbol of Indonesia’s commitment to religious tolerance and interfaith dialogue. Amidst the challenges and tensions that exist, this visit is expected to bring a breath of fresh air to efforts for peace and unity, and become an important milestone in the history of religious tolerance in Indonesia.
)* The author is the editorial team of the Semarang Catholic Student Press Association