Pope Francis Scheduled to Visit Indonesia on September 3
Jakarta, The Gulf Observer: In a significant announcement, Indonesian Minister of Religious Affairs, Yaqut Cholil Qoumas, has confirmed that Pope Francis is set to embark on a historic visit to Indonesia on September 3.
Minister Qoumas revealed that the Indonesian government has received official notification from the Vatican regarding the forthcoming visit of His Holiness, the head of the Catholic Church.
Expressing profound gratitude and pride, Minister Qoumas remarked, “This visit is truly an honor for the Indonesian nation,” in a statement released from his office on Sunday.
He further disclosed that President Joko Widodo eagerly anticipates the arrival of Pope Francis to Indonesia, highlighting the significance of this momentous occasion.
Recalling his personal involvement in extending the invitation to His Holiness, Minister Qoumas recounted delivering President Widodo’s letter to Pope Francis on June 8, 2022, inviting him to visit Indonesia.
“After almost two years of anticipation, praise be to God, Pope Francis will finally grace Indonesia with his presence. This will undoubtedly be a momentous occasion, particularly for the Catholic community,” Minister Qoumas expressed.
During the visit, Minister Qoumas expressed hope that Pope Francis would have the opportunity to immerse himself in Indonesia’s rich cultural diversity and experience firsthand the harmonious coexistence of various religious beliefs across the nation.
“Indonesia exemplifies tolerance and peace among diverse faiths, including indigenous traditions. We look forward to Pope Francis personally witnessing the unity amidst diversity in Indonesia,” Minister Qoumas emphasized.
The anticipated visit holds particular significance as Pope Francis had previously planned to visit Indonesia, only for the plans to be thwarted by the onset of the global pandemic.
The forthcoming visit of Pope Francis to Indonesia is poised to foster greater interfaith dialogue, deepen diplomatic ties, and strengthen the bonds of friendship between Indonesia and the Vatican.
