Pope Francis’s visit to Indonesia, the first leg of his Southeast Asian and Oceanic tour, was marked by a powerful call for interfaith harmony and environmental action. Alongside the grand imam of Southeast Asia’s largest mosque, the Istiqlal Mosque, Pope Francis signed a joint declaration, known as the Istiqlal Declaration, vowing to combat religiously inspired violence and protect the environment.
The declaration, a key element of Francis’ ongoing efforts to strengthen Catholic-Muslim ties, highlighted the need to prevent the misuse of religion for violence and promote its role in conflict resolution and human dignity protection. It also emphasized the urgent need for environmental action, acknowledging the devastating consequences of climate change fueled by human activities.
This declaration builds upon Francis’ previous initiatives, including the “Human Fraternity” movement launched with the imam of Al-Azhar in 2019, and his 2021 visit to Najaf, Iraq, where he met with the top Shiite cleric.
The visit showcased the tangible symbol of interfaith harmony in Indonesia: the “Tunnel of Friendship,” connecting the Istiqlal Mosque and the nearby Catholic cathedral. This tunnel, a testament to the country’s commitment to religious freedom, underscores the potential for cooperation and understanding between different faiths.
Indonesia, with the world’s largest Muslim population, has faced challenges in upholding religious freedom. Amnesty International documented 123 instances of intolerance against religious minorities between 2021 and 2024, including attacks, closures, and destruction of places of worship.
Despite these challenges, Indonesia’s commitment to interfaith harmony was evident in the grand gathering of religious leaders at the Istiqlal Mosque. Representatives of Islam, Buddhism, Confucianism, Hinduism, Catholicism, and Protestantism participated in the event, underscoring the country’s diverse religious landscape.
Beyond the interfaith dialogue, Pope Francis addressed a massive crowd of over 100,000 people at a jubilant Mass in Jakarta’s stadium. His homily, delivered in a vibrant atmosphere, urged Indonesians to dream of peace and become builders of hope.
The Pope’s visit underscored the Catholic Church’s dedication to fostering interfaith dialogue and promoting environmental stewardship. His call for harmony and action resonates deeply in a world increasingly challenged by religious intolerance and climate change. His visit to Indonesia stands as a testament to his commitment to building bridges of understanding and working towards a more peaceful and sustainable future.
