The Ministry Of Public Works Calls The Basilica Church To Be Built In The Capital Archipelago

Deputy Minister of Public Works Diana Kusumastuti conveyed information to the media crew after attending the commemoration of the 79th Public Works Service Day in Jakarta, Tuesday (3/12/2024). BETWEEN/Aji Cakti

JAKARTA - The Ministry of Public Works revealed that the basilica church will be built in the capital city of Nusantara (IKN), East Kalimantan.

"There will be a basilica church in IKN," said Deputy Minister of Public Works Diana Kusumastuti in Jakarta, Antara, Tuesday, December 3.

Currently, he continued, the basic development project at IKN is waiting for the announcement of the winner of the auction. "It's just a matter of waiting for the announcement of the winner (auction)," said Diana.

For information, the Indonesian Ministry of Religion explained that the Basilica Nusantara Santo Francis Xaverius, the first in Indonesia, is ready to be built in the capital city of the archipelago.

Basilica development is a collaboration between the Ministry of Public Works, the Ministry of Religion, the Indonesian Bishops' Conference (KWI), and the Archipelago Capital Authority.

The Basilica of Santo Francis Xaverius is expected to be an important landmark and symbol of religious harmony in this country. The choice of Saint Francis Xaverius as a basilica protector congregation has an important meaning. As a missionary who brought Christianity to Asia, including Indonesia, Santo Francis Xaverius was seen as a unifying figure.

Archbishop of Samarinda Monsegneur (Mgr) Yustinus Harjosusanto explained that basilica is a special type of church that requires the Pope's approval.

Yustinus added that the location of the basilica in the heart of the new capital city is also symbolic. By placing the basilica in the archipelago, sending a message of unity and diversity.

The basic design is magnificent and rich in meaning. It includes features that reflect local culture and history, as well as unique elements for Catholic architecture.

Yustinus explained that the construction of St. Francis Xaverius' Basilica in the house of worship zone of the IKN region is not only a religious effort. This is also an important cultural and historical event. This Basilica is expected to be a popular pilgrimage place for Catholics from all over Indonesia and the world.

He explained that the coexistence of various places of worship, including mosques, churches, and temples, is proof of Indonesia's commitment to religious tolerance and harmony.