Jakarta — Pope Francis’ series of visits to Indonesia received an extraordinary welcome with high enthusiasm and respect from various levels of society.
The Pope’s series of apostolic visits from 3-6 September 2024 is seen as a very historic moment and is able to bring a message of peace, tolerance and unity between religious communities in Indonesia.
Pope Francis expressed his deep gratitude to the Indonesian nation at the Grand Mass held at the Gelora Bung Karno (GBK) Main Stadium, Senayan, Central Jakarta, Thursday (5/9/2024).
The supreme leader of the world’s Catholic Church expressed his appreciation to all parties who had welcomed him with great warmth.
“I thank the religious men and women, all the volunteers who, with great affection, pray for us, the elderly and the sick who suffer,” Pope Francis said.
He felt grateful to be able to visit Indonesia and meet many loving people.
“I express my gratitude for what is due to me while renewing my gratitude to the President of the Republic of Indonesia, civil servants and security forces,” he said.
Furthermore, the Pope gave appreciation to the entire Indonesian nation. He prayed that Indonesia would be blessed.
“Dear brothers, may God bless you all and make you grow and persevere in peace and brotherly love,” he added.
Indonesian President Joko Widodo (Jokowi) also expressed his appreciation for the Vatican’s support and call for peace regarding the conflict in Gaza.
According to the Head of State, Pope Francis’ visit to Indonesia has a very strong message regarding the importance of celebrating differences.
“Indonesia appreciates, really appreciates the Vatican’s stance which continues to voice, call for peace in Palestine and supports a two-state solution, because war will not benefit anyone,” he said.
“War will only bring suffering and misery to the common people,” President Jokowi stressed.
Meanwhile, the General Chairperson of the Central Board of the Indonesian Buddhist Association (Permabudhi), Prof. Philip Kuncoro Widjaja also appreciated Pope Francis’ arrival in Indonesia.
For him, the visit deserves high appreciation because it can bring a message of universal brotherhood and affection.
“We try to practice our teachings and really appreciate this visit as an important moment. To strengthen brotherhood between religious communities in Indonesia,” said the Ketum Permabudhi.
Pope Francis’ visit to Indonesia has had a very broad impact, not only for Catholics, but for all people in the country.
With the various messages of peace and tolerance conveyed by the highest leader of the Catholic Church, Indonesia was once again able to demonstrate its commitment as a country that upholds the values of humanity and diversity.
