On the third day of Pope Francis’ visit, he participated in historic events that highlighted interfaith dialogue and humanitarian efforts.
In the morning, Pope Francis held an interreligious meeting with Grand Imam Dr. Nasaruddin Umar at the Istiqlal Mosque in Jakarta, Indonesia, the largest mosque in Southeast Asia. Pope Francis expressed gratitude to the Grand Imam for his hospitality, praising the mosque as a “great house for humanity,” where people can reflect on their “yearning for the infinite,” seek the divine, and foster friendship.
Later, at the Indonesian Bishops’ Conference Headquarters (KWI - Konferensi Waligereja Indonesia), Pope Francis met with recipients from various humanitarian organizations. He referred to each beneficiary as a “champion of love in the great Olympics of life,” acknowledging their contributions to charitable efforts.
In the evening, Pope Francis celebrated Holy Mass at Gelora Bung Karno Stadium in Jakarta. During his homily, he emphasized that “listening to the Word and living the Word” are “two fundamental attitudes that enable us to become Jesus’ disciples.”
Fr. Anbu Selvam
