Pope Francis and Imam Pledge to Fight Religious Violence and Protect the Environment
During a historic interfaith meeting in Indonesia, Pope Francis and Grand Imam Nusaruddin Umar made a joint pledge to combat religiously inspired violence and protect the environment. The meeting symbolized a call for interfaith friendship and unity at the heart of Francis’ visit to the country.
Indonesia, with the world’s largest Muslim population, showcased its commitment to religious freedom with the “Tunnel of Friendship,” connecting a mosque and a Catholic cathedral. The tunnel served as a potent symbol of religious tolerance and unity, amidst reports of religious intolerance and violence in the country.
The Pope encouraged Indonesians of all religious backgrounds to work together in search of God and to build open societies based on respect and love, while denouncing rigidity, fundamentalism, and extremism.
The interfaith gathering, attended by representatives of six recognized religions in Indonesia, resulted in the Istiqlal Declaration, which condemns the abuse of religion for violence and calls for decisive action to protect the environment.
The meeting marked a highlight of Francis’ visit to Indonesia, which included a massive Mass in Jakarta’s stadium. The Pope will continue his trip with stops in Papua New Guinea, East Timor, and Singapore, emphasizing the importance of interfaith dialogue and cooperation in promoting peace and unity on a global scale.
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