Pope Francis has called on religious communities worldwide to “strengthen their bonds and work together to address global crises such as conflict, poverty, and environmental degradation” during his visit to Indonesia’s Istiqlal Mosque on Sept. 5.
The pontiff emphasized the importance of interreligious dialogue and mutual respect as foundations for peaceful coexistence.
He praised the mosque as “a great house for humanity,” where people can come together to seek “an encounter with the divine and experience the joy of friendship with others.”
In his speech, Pope Francis highlighted Indonesia’s rich tradition of religious harmony, symbolized by the unique connection between the Istiqlal Mosque and the nearby Cathedral of Saint Mary of the Assumption.
A physical underground passage, known as the “tunnel of friendship,” links the two places of worship.
The pontiff described the tunnel as “an eloquent sign, allowing these two great places of worship not only to be ‘in front’ of each other, but also ‘connected’ to each other.”
He added that the passageway allows for “encounter, dialogue and a real possibility for ‘finding and sharing a ‘mystique of living together, mingling and encounter.’”
He urged religious leaders to continue fostering unity, emphasizing that true harmony is built not on theological compromise, but on personal connections.
“Sometimes we think that a meeting between religions is a matter of seeking common ground between different religious doctrines and beliefs no matter the cost,” Pope Francis said.
“Such an approach, however, may end up dividing us, because the doctrines and dogmas of each religious experience are different,” he added.
Pope Francis also warned against the dangers of extremism, saying that “rigidity, fundamentalism, and extremism, which are always dangerous and never justifiable.”
He encouraged the faithful to cultivate openness and dialogue, warning that the alternative could lead to division and conflict. “May no one succumb to the allure of fundamentalism and violence,” he said.
The Pope also addressed the broader global challenges facing humanity, urging collaboration between religious communities to tackle crises such as environmental degradation and wars, which he said are “unfortunately caused at times by the manipulation of religion.”
He called on all faiths to promote values that can “help society defeat the culture of violence and indifference” and work together to achieve peace.
Highlighting Indonesia’s diversity, Pope Francis celebrated the country’s “mosaic of cultures, ethnicities and religious traditions,” which he called a “rich diversity” that must be preserved.
He reminded Indonesians that “the most precious treasure” they possess is their determination to harmonize differences through mutual respect.
“Do not lose this gift! Do not impoverish yourselves of this great treasure,” he urged, adding that these values should be passed on to future generations.
“Thank you for your kind smiles, which always shine on your faces and are a sign of your beauty and inner openness,” he said.
He prayed that God would help them continue to foster a peaceful, fraternal society.
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