Jakarta – Indonesia welcomed the arrival of Pope Francis with great joy. This visit is a historic moment that is expected to strengthen the spirit of religious moderation and tolerance in the country.
The Diocesan Priest of the Archdiocese of Jakarta, Father RD Yustinus Sulistiadi, stated that Pope Francis’ visit to Indonesia in early September 2024 brought an important message for the younger generation. Pope Francis is very aware of the important role of young people in preserving the earth and building a better future.
“This Pope is very close to young people, because he knows that the future of the world is in their hands, Pope Francis will call for the importance of voicing humanitarian issues as a shared responsibility,” said Father Sulis.
During his visit to Indonesia, Pope Francis will remind the young generation of Indonesia about the importance of preserving the earth as a legacy for future generations. The Pope is also scheduled to meet with youth and groups of people with disabilities at Graha Pemuda, Cathedral Church Complex.
“The Pope also met with youth and disabled groups at Graha Pemuda, and will echo the values of universal brotherhood. The Pope will also not only talk about exclusivity in the Catholic faith,” he said.
Meanwhile, the General Chairperson of the Ansor Youth Movement (GP), Addin Jauharudin stated that Pope Francis has high tolerance for all religious communities. This was proven when the Pope received the leaders of interfaith youth organizations at the Vatican.
“He is very Indonesian, Pancasila, and even agreed to sign the Jakarta-Vatican Declaration initiated by young people from various religions in Indonesia,” said Addin.
For your information, Pope Francis began his apostolic journey to the Asia Pacific region on September 3, 2024. Indonesia was the first country visited, namely on September 3-6, 2024.
During his visit to Indonesia, the Pope attended various activities, including state events with President Joko Widodo, a visit to the Istiqlal Mosque in Jakarta, a meeting with representatives of the Jakarta Cathedral Church, and a grand mass at the Gelora Bung Karno (GBK) Main Stadium.
Pope Francis is a Catholic leader who comes from Argentina. This condition makes the Pope understand the various problems faced by third world countries, starting from economic, political, environmental, social, to cultural aspects.
The Pope’s closeness to children and the younger generation will further encourage them to practice teachings about the importance of simplicity, protecting the environment, and establishing brotherhood. Therefore, the Pope is also believed to provide awareness to the younger generation about loving the earth and maintaining human values.