Pope Francis And Grand Imam Unite Against Religious Violence

A person displays a small statue of Pope Francis as his car-cade arrives at the Istiqlal Mosque for an interreligious meeting, in Jakarta, Indonesia, Thursday, Sept. 5, 2024. (AP Photo/Achmad Ibrahim)

Pope Francis and the grand imam of Southeast Asia's largest mosque came together in Jakarta, Indonesia, to address religiously inspired violence and environmental protection. The joint call for interfaith friendship and common cause was a significant highlight of Francis' visit to Indonesia.

During an interfaith gathering at Jakarta's iconic Istiqlal Mosque, representatives from six officially recognized religions in Indonesia - Islam, Buddhism, Confucianism, Hinduism, Catholicism, and Protestantism - joined hands. The symbolic meeting took place at the 'Tunnel of Friendship,' connecting the mosque with the neighboring Catholic cathedral, emphasizing Indonesia's commitment to religious freedom.

Francis emphasized the role of different religious traditions in guiding individuals through life's challenges towards the light. He urged Indonesians of all faiths to seek God and contribute to building open societies based on mutual respect and love, guarding against rigidity, fundamentalism, and extremism.

Symbolic meeting at Istiqlal Mosque emphasizes religious freedom in Indonesia.

Joint call for interfaith friendship and common cause in Indonesia.

Francis urges Indonesians of all faiths to seek God and build open societies.

Initiative 'The Istiqlal Declaration' focuses on resolving conflicts and protecting human dignity.

Climate change addressed as a key concern by Pope Francis in Indonesia.

Inclusive nature of Istiqlal Mosque highlighted by the grand imam.

Efforts of Pope Francis and grand imam emphasize interfaith dialogue for peace.

Personal connection between Francis and grand imam evident during visit.

Initiative calls for decisive action to address environmental crisis.

Interfaith gathering at iconic mosque promotes mutual respect and love.

As part of his 11-day trip to Asia and Oceania, Francis aimed to encourage Indonesia to combat religiously inspired violence and promote greater fraternity. The personal connection between Francis and the grand imam was evident, with a warm exchange as the Pope bid farewell.

The newly launched initiative, 'The Istiqlal Declaration,' signed by Francis and the grand imam, emphasizes the role of religion in resolving conflicts and protecting human dignity. It also calls for decisive action to address the environmental crisis, attributing climate change to human exploitation of the planet.

Climate change is a key concern for Pope Francis, who has consistently advocated for environmental stewardship. The issue holds particular significance for Indonesia, a nation with vast natural resources and biodiversity.

The grand imam highlighted the inclusive nature of the Istiqlal Mosque, designed by a Christian architect and serving as a hub for various social and educational programs benefiting all individuals, regardless of faith.

The joint efforts of Pope Francis and the grand imam underscore the importance of interfaith dialogue and cooperation in promoting peace and addressing global challenges.