Interfaith Reflection on the Legacy of Pope Francis and Hope towards the Leadership of Pope Leo XIV

Jakarta, 10 May 2025 – PRAKSIS (Jesuit Center for Research and Advocacy) held a reflective seminar called “A Beautiful Mosaic: Indonesia in the Eyes of Pope Francis” at the aula of the office of the Indonesian Bishops’ Conference in Jakarta. The seminar aimed to reflect on Indonesia’s role in creating a universal Church that is inclusive and peaceful, while also commemorating Pope Francis and welcoming Pope Leo XIV’s leadership.

Prominent speakers, including Mgr. Antonius Subianto Bunjamin, Ignatius Jonan, Prof Dr Siti Musdah Mulia, and Rev Jacklevyn F. Manuputty, actively engaged in discussions led by Francisia Saveria Sika Ery Seda, a sociology professor at the University of Indonesia. The Indonesian Jesuit Provincial, Fr. Benedictus Hari Juliawan, S.J. opened the event by highlighting the importance of recognizing the spiritual and social connections made by Pope Francis and embracing Pope Leo XIV as a promising successor. He described Indonesia as a “beautiful mosaic,” emphasizing love, dialogue, and brotherhood among people.

Mgr. Bunjamin expressed that Pope Francis urges a shift from indifference to solidarity worldwide, and believes Pope Leo XIV embodies this vision. Professor Musdah Mulia emphasized that Pope Francis’ legacy serves as an interfaith call for peace, advocating dialogue and respect for life and human rights. Rev Manuputty referred to Pope Francis as the “Shepherd Father of Humanity” and noted his alignment with vulnerable communities. Ignatius Jonan invited participants to recognize the significance of Pope Francis’ visit and the election of Pope Leo XIV as a divine invitation for transformation within the Church.

The seminar represented a moment to honor Pope Francis’s positive influence in Indonesia and to look forward to the Church’s direction under the papacy leadership of Pope Leo XIV.

Documentation video link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wfpI54HoYmQ 

www.praksis.id

Contributor: Fr. Angga Indraswara, S.J.