The Friendship Tunnel between Jakarta’s great mosque and the Catholic cathedral stands as a powerful symbol of unity and interfaith harmony in Indonesia. Built to strengthen bonds between Muslims and Christians, this short passage represents a shared commitment to peace and mutual respect in the world’s largest Muslim-majority country.
At 60 years old, Father Justin Solistiadi, assistant parish priest at Saint John Mary Vianney, embodies the vibrant spirit of Indonesia’s Catholic community as they celebrate Pope Francis’ visit to Jakarta. In a city with a predominantly Muslim population, Father Solistiadi has played a pivotal role in fostering inter-religious dialogue and preparing his parish for this historic event. His efforts, including setting up a special committee of journalists and creating a new website, highlight the significance of the visit and its impact on both local and national levels.
Established in 1924, the Church of the Sacred Heart of Ganjuran in Java, Indonesia, uniquely blends Javanese architecture with Catholic tradition. Drawing thousands of pilgrims yearly, it features Javanese artistic elements and is renowned for its healing spring and Marian Grotto. Despite historical and natural challenges, it remains a spiritual and cultural hub, embodying religious harmony and social commitment, including sustainable agriculture initiatives. This centenary church is a vital part of Ganjuran’s identity.
The news that reaches us from the once famous Spice Islands is good. The time of civil conflicts, of confrontation between Christian and Muslim communities seems to be just a distant memory.
In the remote and captivating islands of Mentawai, west of Sumatra, Indonesia, the Catholic faith thrives amidst challenging landscapes and a unique blend of cultures.
Celebrating Christmas in the Indonesian archipelago is certainly a unique experience. Christianity has inevitably, over the centuries, adapted to local customs in an intricate process of acculturation.
The Papuans have finally been given the Catholic leader they have wanted for a long time, one who would have a deep and intrinsic understanding of their culture and the particular issues they face.
The Malang Stadium devastation caused the Catholic Church in Indonesia to speak about promoting harmony at different levels in society, treating games as a medium of enjoyment and not violence, and calling Catholics to a more active political life to initiate change for the betterment of society.