Pope Francis to Visit Indonesia on September 3, Religious Minister Says

TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Pope Francis will visit Indonesia on September 3, according to Indonesian Minister of Religious Affairs, Yaqut Cholil Qoumas.

Qoumas said that the Indonesian government has been notified regarding the upcoming visit of the head of the Catholic Church by the Vatican authority.

"This is indeed an honor for the Indonesian nation," Qoumas said in a statement from his office on Sunday.

He added that President Joko Widodo has been awaiting for Pope Francis to come to Indonesia.

Quomas recalled that he had personally delivered the president's letter to Francis on June 8, 2022, inviting him to visit Indonesia.

"Praise be to God, after almost two years of waiting, Pope Francis will finally visit Indonesia. I believe this will be a special moment, especially to all Catholics," the minister said.

He expressed hope that during his visit to Indonesia, Francis will personally observe and experience cultural diversity and religious harmony among various faiths in Indonesia.

"Indonesia can maintain tolerance and peace among various faiths, including local faiths. We hope Pope Francis can personally observe the diversity in Indonesia," Qoumas remarked.

Francis had earlier planned to visit Indonesia, but it was canceled due to the pandemic.

ANTARA

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