Jakarta – Pope Francis, the world’s highest leader of the Catholic Church, made a historic visit to Indonesia from September 3 to 6, 2024. In addition to the Cathedral Church, during his visit the Pope also visited the Istiqlal Mosque on Thursday (5/9). This marks an important step in efforts to strengthen interfaith dialogue and unity in the country with the largest Muslim population in the world.
Grand Imam of Istiqlal Mosque, Nasaruddin Umar said that the Pope’s visit was an honor. Indonesia is not predominantly Catholic, even predominantly Muslim. But the Pope chose to come to Indonesia.
“For me, this is special. Why would the Pope want to visit Indonesia? There is no way the Pope would want to visit a country if there is nothing in his heart. So we have an inner friendship,” he said in an interview as quoted on the hidupkatolik.com page.
Pope Francis also held interfaith dialogues with hundreds of interfaith figures in Indonesia. This interfaith dialogue became Pope Francis’ main focus during his visit to Indonesia. The Pope views Indonesia as a role model for a multicultural country that can live in a relatively peaceful atmosphere.
In addition to visiting the Istiqlal Mosque, Pope Francis continued his visit to the office of the Indonesian Bishops’ Conference (KWI).
Chairman of the Indonesian Bishops’ Conference (KWI), Bishop Antonius Bunjamin Subianto, OSC, said that Pope Francis’ visit to Indonesia was a humanitarian mission and a mission of brotherhood.
“Because the Pope’s arrival in Indonesia is not only important about his visit, that is also important and necessary, and many people are looking forward to it, but also how to socialize various teachings and practice them in our daily lives,” said Antonius.
The highlight of Pope Francis’ visit was a Mass held at the Gelora Bung Karno Main Stadium. The Pope called for the importance of unity, social justice and concern for the environment.
Indonesia, with its extraordinary diversity, is an example of how differences can be a source of strength.
Pope Francis’ visit to Indonesia is seen as a significant moment in the history of interfaith relations in the country. It is hoped that the visit will further strengthen the spirit of tolerance and unity amidst Indonesia’s diversity.
