Pope Francis' Historic Interfaith Mission in Indonesia Touches Hearts

Pope Francis will visit Indonesia, the world's largest Muslim-majority nation, promoting interfaith harmony. The visit includes a tour of the 'Tunnel of Friendship,' bridging a mosque and a cathedral. The pope will meet President Widodo, hold a mass, and symbolize peace amid concerns over religious intolerance.

Next week, Pope Francis will embark on a landmark visit to Indonesia, a significant step in his efforts to foster interfaith harmony. A notable part of his 12-day Asia-Pacific tour, the visit will highlight the 'Tunnel of Friendship' connecting Jakarta's Istiqlal Mosque to the Our Lady of the Assumption Cathedral.

Built in 2020, the 28.3-meter tunnel symbolizes religious unity, a theme that Pope Francis, 87, has emphasized throughout his 11-year papacy. During his visit, the pope will meet with Indonesian President Joko Widodo, participate in an interfaith meeting at Southeast Asia's largest mosque, and conduct a mass expected to draw over 80,000 attendees.

The visit has stirred excitement among Indonesian Catholics, who make up only 3% of the population. Despite past religious tensions, many see the visit as a beacon of hope for improved harmony and tolerance. 'His visit can transform people to love one another,' said Maria Regina Widyastuti Sasongko, a 77-year-old Catholic vendor.

(With inputs from agencies.)