Minister invites Pope Francis to Indonesia

JAKARTA. Religious Affairs Minister Lukman Hakim Saifuddin has invited Pope Francis to Indonesia to discuss numerous issues on peace and conflict between religious communities.

The invitation was conveyed to Vatican Secretary of State Cardinal Pietro Parolin in a meeting at Lukman’s office on Wednesday.

The minister said that the Pope’s visit would encourage the development of interfaith dialogues in Indonesia.

“Efforts to build interfaith dialogues are something that are very positive and we are appreciate and thankful for what the Pope has done and its positive impact on not only Indonesia but on the world,” Lukman said, as quoted by tempo.co.

Pope Francis has been known for his more liberal approach to engaging with the global community; this can be seen in the way he makes an effort to embrace controversial issues like gay rights and global warming.

Lukman added that the good relationship between Indonesia and the Vatican had existed for more than 65 years, adding that Indonesia is home to at least seven million Catholics.

During a visit by the Pope’s visit, Lukman said that he would showcase Indonesia’s religious harmony.

Responding to the invitation, Parolin gladly welcomed the offer and said he would convey it to the Pope so that he could witness in person religious life in Indonesia.