Pope Francis And Message Of Tolerance For Indonesia

Pope Francis' visit to Indonesia was not just an official visit by a religious leader. More than that, this moment brings an important message of tolerance and harmony between religious believers. The Pope affirmed his recognition of Indonesia's diversity and his commitment to maintaining global peace.

As the country with the largest Muslim majority in the world, Indonesia welcomes the Pope with warmth and respect. The government even released a special stamp as a tribute to this visit. This speech strengthens the principle of "Bhinneka Tunggal Ika" which became the foundation of national life in Indonesia. From the Istiqlal Mosque to the Cathedral Church, the symbol of interfaith unity is clearly visible.

When visiting the Istiqlal Mosque, Pope Francis was not only present as a guest, but also signed a humanitarian document emphasizing the message of peace and unity. The Grand Imam of the Istiqlal Mosque, Prof. Dr. KH Nasaruddin Umar, MA., welcomed this step as strengthening cross-religious brotherhood. The Gathering Tunnel connecting the Istiqlal Mosque and the Cathedral Church became a physical symbol of harmony in Indonesia's diversity.

During the Mass at the Gelora Bung Karno Main Stadium, which was attended by 86,000 people, the Pope conveyed a strong message to Indonesian Catholics. He reminded the importance of building a peace civilization and invited people to continue to dream and work for the sake of peace.

Pope Francis also emphasized the importance of maintaining religious tolerance, by respecting each other's different beliefs. This message is very relevant in today's world, where religious-based conflicts still occur frequently.

Pope Francis' visit also continued the history of good relations between the Vatican and Indonesia. Previously, Pope Paul VI visited Indonesia in 1970, followed by Pope John Paul II in 1989. Pope Pius XII gave blessing to the first Indonesian National Police Chief, General Soekanto, when he asked for prayers for Indonesia's independence.

However, Pope Francis brought a new perspective. He stressed that dialogue is the key to overcoming tensions among religious believers. This visit confirms Indonesia's position as a country that has succeeded in maintaining harmony in diversity in the international world.

The Pope also stressed that universal human values can be a bridge between religions. For the Pope, grief is not a matter of imposing faith, but of spreading compassion and brotherhood, a message relevant to all religions.

The Pope's simple attitude during this visit was an inspiration for the leaders. His humility and dedication to serving others are role models to follow.

In the midst of differences, this visit brings new hope for peace. When many countries are still hit by religious conflicts, Indonesia proves that differences are strength. The Gathering Tunnel visited by the Pope is a global symbol of living together in peace.

The main message of this visit is the importance of maintaining and developing cross-religious dialogue. The Pope's visit is an important moment for Indonesia to strengthen religious tolerance that has been built.

We should be proud that the Pope recognizes "Bhinneka Tunggal Ika" as the basis for the diversity of the nation. In the midst of religious conflicts that are still rife in the world, Indonesia sets an example that differences are a gift that must be celebrated. Now, our job is to forward this message of tolerance to future generations.

Pope Francis also mentioned Indonesia's natural wealth during a speech at the Istiqlal Mosque. According to him, Indonesia's greatest wealth is not only in natural resources, but also in harmony born out of differences. "Indonesia is a mosaic of culture and diversity that reflects the beauty of the ecosystem and the surrounding environment," said the Pope. His message is clear: maintaining harmony is much more valuable than exploiting natural wealth.