President Jokowi Joyfully Welcomes Pope Francis Ahead of Historic Mass in Jakarta

Jakarta, The Gulf Observer: President Joko Widodo warmly welcomed Pope Francis to Indonesia on Thursday, expressing honor and joy ahead of a grand mass at Gelora Bung Karno (GBK) Stadium in Jakarta. The president’s remarks were broadcast live on the Presidential Secretariat’s YouTube channel and a videotron, emphasizing the significance of the Pope’s visit to the country.

“Today, we are excited to welcome the visit of His Holiness Pope Francis. Indonesian Catholics rejoice together because they can conduct a holy mass with Pope Francis,” President Widodo stated in his address.

In his remarks, the president highlighted the important role Catholics play in promoting national unity and fostering values of love and tolerance amid Indonesia’s rich diversity. “Catholics in Indonesia are an important part of the nation in maintaining unity, spreading love and tolerance with other religious communities in Indonesia,” he said, reinforcing the country’s commitment to peaceful coexistence.

Widodo further emphasized that Indonesia’s diversity is a national treasure, and tolerance serves as the foundation for unity and peace. “Diversity is the wealth of the nation, and tolerance is the fertilizer for unity and peace,” he remarked.

The president concluded his speech by extending best wishes to all Catholics attending the mass. “I wish you a happy holy mass and hope it will be a blessing for each other,” he said.

The grand mass, led by Pope Francis, marked the pinnacle of the Vatican leader’s visit to Indonesia. Earlier in the day, President Widodo personally greeted Pope Francis upon his arrival at the GBK complex. The two leaders shook hands and exchanged a few words before the Pope continued to greet the large crowd gathered for the mass.

Pope Francis arrived in a Toyota Innova Zenix with plate number SCV 1, and later rode in a Maung MV3 vehicle with an open roof, waving to the enthusiastic crowd at Madya Stadium and GBK Main Stadium.

The papal visit to Indonesia has been widely celebrated, with Indonesian Catholics and people of all faiths joining together in a spirit of unity and reverence.