Jakarta – Pope Francis’ visit to Indonesia, scheduled for September 3-6, 2024, holds significant meaning not only for the Catholic community but also for the entire Indonesian society. This visit is expected to strengthen the diversity that is the foundation of national life and statehood in Indonesia.
In the national seminar titled “Cross Faiths Towards True Brotherhood” organized by Atma Jaya Catholic University (Unika) Jakarta, Muhammadiyah scholar Sukidi Mulyadi stated that the presence of Pope Francis can strengthen unity amidst the diversity present in Indonesia. According to him, Pope Francis sets an example by greeting and getting to know everyone, regardless of religious differences, background, or ethnicity.
Muhammadiyah scholar, Sukidi Mulyadi, added that Pope Francis is known for his great concern for the poor and marginalized groups, a stance shaped by his life experiences in Argentina. The Pope’s concern for humanity, according to Sukidi, is a real example that can be followed by the Indonesian people.
Pope Francis’s concern for global brotherhood is also evident in the encyclical Fratelli Tutti, which discusses the importance of fraternity and social friendship. This encyclical was published in Assisi, Italy, a city that often serves as a meeting place for religious leaders to engage in dialogue.
The Professor of Philosophy at Driyarkara School of Philosophy, Franz Magnis-Suseno, emphasizes that good relationships among religious communities are a fundamental element in maintaining the unity of Indonesia. He mentioned that although Indonesia has a Muslim majority, the founders of the nation chose Pancasila as the foundation of the state, emphasizing the One Supreme God, rather than a specific religion.
Franz Magnis hopes that the arrival of Pope Francis will further strengthen interfaith relationships and encourage Indonesian society to be more accepting of differences. He also believes that the Pope’s presence is an opportunity for the Indonesian people to get to know one of the world’s figures who always prioritizes the values of brotherhood.
Pope Francis’s visit is expected to inspire the entire Indonesian community to further strengthen unity and diversity, towards a more united and harmonious Indonesia.
