Indonesian youth urge Pope to spread message of global peace

Sep 20, 2024

Deborah Castellano Lubov and Linda Bordoni
In an interview with Vatican News on September 4 in Jakarta, Maria Paz Jurado, Director of Scholas Occurrentes’ International Projects, conveyed a heartfelt plea for Pope Francis to share a message of peace with the world. This appeal was made during the Pope’s visit to Indonesia, part of his longest Apostolic Journey to date across Asia and Oceania.

Jurado's remarks came as Pope Francis concluded a series of significant meetings, including with local authorities, clergy, and his Jesuit peers. His final event of the day was a gathering with Scholas Occurrentes, a Vatican Foundation founded by the Pope, which focuses on engaging youth through education, art, and sports.

At the Grha Pemuda Youth House in Jakarta, the Pope was welcomed by around 200 young Indonesians from diverse islands, schools, and religions. The venue featured a prominent polyhedron sculpture, symbolising the themes of unity and diversity central to the gathering.

Jurado highlighted how Indonesia’s core values resonate deeply with the Pope’s message of peace and unity. “Indonesia embodies the principles Pope Francis advocates, particularly the concept of ‘Unity in Diversity,’ or ‘Bhinneka Tunggal Ika,’” she said. “His presence here in the world’s largest Muslim democracy is a powerful message of peace and dialogue for the entire globe.”

Expressing excitement about the Pope’s visit, Jurado emphasized the significance of hearing directly from young people about their hopes and concerns for the future. “We are thrilled that His Holiness is here to listen to the youth’s aspirations and dreams for Indonesia and the world,” she remarked.

The Pope’s visit, noted Jurado, has energized the nation and highlighted the extensive work done with over 2,500 young people, including those in prison, through various social organisations. The polyhedron sculpture, designed in the shape of a heart, represents the heart of Indonesia and its commitment to diversity.

Jurado concluded with a heartfelt request: “From the heart of Indonesia, we ask Pope Francis to convey a message of peace to the world, reinforcing the values of unity and respect that we hold dear.” --Vatican News