The Indonesian Ministry of Foreign Affairs has confirmed that Pope Francis, the leader of the Catholic Church, will visit Indonesia from September 3rd to 6th, 2024. The arrival of His Holiness is a state invitation extended by President Joko Widodo.
On March 25, 2024, the official invitation from the President of Indonesia was conveyed through the Vatican’s Ambassador to Jakarta, as quoted from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ statement on Friday, April 12.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs asserts that the Indonesian government is actively preparing for the arrival of Pope Francis alongside the Vatican and relevant stakeholders. They say that the Pope’s visit to Indonesia holds great significance for the entire Indonesian nation, not just for Catholics.
“This visit is expected to strengthen the message of tolerance, unity, and world peace,” said the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Minister of Religious Affairs Yaqut Cholil Qoumas also confirmed that Pope Francis will visit Indonesia in September. According to him, the Indonesian government has received an official notification letter from the Vatican authorities regarding this matter.
Indonesia will be the first country visited by Pope Francis in his itinerary for September 2024. After Indonesia, the Pope will continue his journey to Papua New Guinea, Timor Leste, and Singapore.
This visit reaffirms the close relationship between Indonesia, especially the Catholic community, and the Vatican, according to a statement by Archbishop of Jakarta, Ignatius Cardinal Suharyo.
Pope Francis had previously planned to visit Indonesia in 2020, but the plan was postponed due to the Covid-19 pandemic. His arrival in 2024 is expected to be a significant moment in strengthening relationship between Indonesia and the Vatican City and promoting the message of peace and tolerance worldwide.
