You Won’t Believe What the Pope Did at Jakarta’s Istiqlal Mosque! Find Out Now!

Amidst the abundant culture and diversity of Indonesia lies a unique symbol of religious harmony—a tunnel connecting the revered Istiqlal mosque to the Our Lady of the Assumption cathedral in Jakarta. This remarkable 28.3-meter "Tunnel of Friendship" serves as a testament to the nation’s commitment to fostering interfaith unity, resonating with the upcoming visit of Pope Francis to Indonesia as part of his extensive Asia-Pacific tour.

1. Pope Francis’ Visit to Indonesia:
   • Embarking on the longest trip of his distinguished papacy, Pope Francis, at 87, will set foot in Indonesia, the world’s most populous Muslim-majority country, before journeying on to Papua New Guinea, East Timor, and Singapore.
   • Amid concerns about his health, the Pope is scheduled to engage in an interfaith meeting at the Istiqlal mosque, the largest of its kind in Southeast Asia. This impressive structure, with its vast parking lot often open to churchgoers during significant events, has been a focal point of religious tolerance.
   • The visit is a time of celebration for the Catholic community in Indonesia, who have not encountered a papal visit in over three decades. The anticipation and excitement among the locals and the church officials are palpable, with expectations of a mass service led by the Pope at a Jakarta stadium.
2. Symbol of Friendship; Chequered Past:
   • Yaqut Cholil Qoumas, Indonesia’s religious affairs minister, sees the Pope’s visit as a significant symbol of friendship and peace among the diverse religious communities in Indonesia. It is an opportunity to showcase the country as a beacon of tolerance.
   • While Indonesia has made strides in promoting religious harmony, the country has faced challenges in the past, marked by instances of religious intolerance and discrimination. The historical backdrop of colonial rule and the present-day regulations affecting minority religions have posed obstacles to complete religious freedom.

Although the narrative of Indonesia’s religious history has been complex, the common thread that runs through the hearts of its people is an innate desire for unity and love. As the Catholic woman, Sasongko, selling papal memorabilia expresses, the essence of the Pope’s visit lies in uniting people, fostering love, and inspiring hope for a brighter future. Let us cherish this moment and embrace the message of harmony that resonates with the visit of Pope Francis in the diverse tapestry of Indonesia.