Pope Francis is just a couple of weeks away from his nearly two-week long trip to Asia. And following his Wednesday General Audience, he spent an extended amount of time with a group who traveled from Indonesia to greet him.
The group consisted of interfaith leaders—including Catholic, Protestant, Buddist, Muslim and Hindu. Each member expressed their excitement for the Pope's first visit to their home country.
STEFANUS GUSMA
Chairman, Catholic Youth Organization Indonesia
The Pope's presence in Indonesia is not only for Catholics but for all Indonesians. Because the Pope's views, thoughts, values related to humanity, brotherhood and the environment have become a necessity, an interest and a commitment for all of us. So we are very proud that Indonesia is one of the countries chosen by the Pope.
But beyond greeting the Pope, the interfaith group also came to Rome with a mission: to create a more just and safe world. They presented a document to Pope Francis detailing their goal to invite young people to live in harmony and respect for one another.
ADDIN JAUHARUDIN
Chairman, Islamic Youth Organization Indonesia
We are joining hands and expressing how young leaders throughout Indonesia can be involved in promoting world peace. We conveyed this to the Pope and he officially signed our document.
The group will continue their travels and meet with other world and religious leaders to promote peace and harmony among various religions. And when they return to Indonesia, they will get to see Pope Francis once again, but this time, in their home country.
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