In Indonesia, only 8 million people are Catholics. Some of that small percentage came out to see the Pope during his last event in their country.
About 80,000 people gathered in this stadium to welcome Francis, the third pope to visit the country.
Excitement was written across the thousands of faces and one very special moment was when this young man read the First Reading in Braille.
Pope Francis directed his homily to all Indonesians, telling them it is not necessary to be a perfect Catholic nor to have great projects. But it is important to be humble and to face failures with courage.
POPE FRANCIS
Do not grow weary of setting out to sea. Do not grow weary of casting your nets. Do not grow weary of dreaming and building a civilization of peace. Always dare to dream of fraternity, which is a beautiful treasure among you. Regarding the Word of God, I encourage you to sow love, to confidently walk the path of dialogue and to continue practicing your goodness and kindness with your signature smile. Has anyone ever told you that you are a smiley people? Please do not lose your smile.
The Mass coincided with the feast of St. Teresa of Calcutta, whom Pope Francis recalled with these words.
POPE FRANCIS
St. Teresa of Calcutta, whose memory we celebrate today and who tirelessly cared for the poorest and became a promoter of peace and dialogue, said, “When we have nothing to give, let us give that nothing. And remember: even if you should reap nothing, never tire of sowing.” Brothers and sisters, never tire of sowing, for that is life.
And so, praying before Our Lady, Pope Francis' last event in Indonesia came to an end. But his tour of Asia and Oceania continues with his next stop in Papua New Guinea.
CA
TR: KG
