After Cenceled Visit in 2020, Pope Francis to Come Indonesia This Year

Jakarta – Minister of Religious Affairs, Yaqut Cholil Qoumas stated that Pope Francis will visit Indonesia on September 3.

He 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," Minister Qoumas said in a statement on Sunday.

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

Minister 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 remarked.

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 on 2020, but it was canceled due to the pandemic.