Pope Francis arrived in Indonesia on Tuesday, September 3, 2024, marking a significant moment in the nation's history.
The Pope's arrival at Soekarno-Hatta International Airport in Tangerang at approximately 11:30 AM was met with a warm reception from Indonesian leaders and the public alike.
President Joko Widodo, in a press conference held alongside Minister of Religious Affairs Yaqut Cholil Qoumas, Chairman of the Committee for the Arrival of Pope Francis in Indonesia Ignasius Jonan, and the Archbishop of Jakarta Cardinal Ignatius Suharyo, officially welcomed Pope Francis to Indonesia.
"On behalf of the people of Indonesia, I am honored to welcome His Holiness Pope Francis to our country," President Jokowi stated. "Indonesia and the Vatican share a profound commitment to nurturing peace, fraternity, and the well-being of all people. I hope this four-day visit by the Pope will serve as a significant milestone in strengthening interfaith dialogue in our nation."
Pope Francis arrived on a blue commercial ALITALIA flight, and upon landing, he was assisted by a vehicle lift as he disembarked, seated in a wheelchair.
The warm welcome continued as two young children dressed in traditional Maluku attire presented him with flowers, symbolizing Indonesia's national motto, Bhinneka Tunggal Ika (Unity in Diversity).
This touching gesture was accompanied by enthusiastic greetings from dignitaries who had been waiting beneath the plane.
Minister of Religious Affairs Yaqut Cholil Qoumas, who personally greeted Pope Francis at the airport, remarked on the Pope's choice of transportation—a modest white Toyota Innova Zenix with the license plate SCV 1, prepared in the VVIP section of the airport. The Pope was seen sitting in the front seat.
"I believe this simplicity is truly remarkable," Minister Yaqut commented in Tangerang. "Pope Francis exemplifies leadership not only as a religious figure but also as a head of state. His choice of a humble vehicle from the Airport to Jakarta is a powerful demonstration of his values."
The minister added that Pope Francis's modesty is a trait that all leaders should aspire to. "By choosing simplicity, he sets an example for others. His preference for a simple mode of transportation is something we should all admire and follow."
The Pope's journey through Jakarta was accompanied by heightened security measures, ensuring his safety with a level of protection akin to that of a head of state.
Pope Francis's visit to Indonesia is anticipated to be a pivotal moment in fostering greater understanding and cooperation among the diverse religious communities in the country.
In addition to celebrating Mass with thousands of Catholics at Gelora Bung Karno Stadium on September 5, Pope Francis is also scheduled to meet with President Joko Widodo and religious leaders at Istiqlal Mosque.
This visit to the largest mosque in Southeast Asia underscores the Pope’s commitment to fostering interfaith dialogue and cooperation in Indonesia, a country renowned for its religious diversity.
