Thousands Gather Outside GBK to Welcome Pope Francis' Arrival for Jakarta Mass

TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Thousands of Indonesian Catholics line up at the south of Jalan Gerbang Pemuda, Gelora Bung Karno (GBK) Stadium Complex to welcome the arrival of Pope Francis and his Vatican entourage. 

The security escort for Pope Francis has been heard since 04:05 p.m. Jakarta Time. From the east, a row of police motorcycles and car patrols cross the streets, followed by Pope Francis’ white Innova Zenix with plate number SCV 1. From the front passenger seat, the Pope rolls down the car window and waves at the crowd calling out his name. 

“Viva il Papa,” the crowd shouts, meaning ‘Long live the Pope.’ Those who have seen the Pope spontaneously run to Madya Stadium, located northwest of GBK Stadium Complex. 

Pope Francis’ entourage arrived at Madya Stadium at around 04:15 p.m. He’s greeted by chants and praise songs from inside the stadium. The Grand Mass started at around 05:00 p.m.

Outside the stadium, the crowd without tickets to attend the Mass gathered around the stadium entrance. Based on Tempo’s observation, religious songs are still playing inside the Madya Stadium until 04:55 p.m. 

While Pope Francis greets the Catholics inside the stadium, those gathering outside sit around and pay close attention to the event inside.  

SAVERO ARISTIA WIENANTO

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