By Sr. Veronica Endah Lesta, Indonesia (Province of Indonesia)

“Viva il Papa… viva il Papa… viva Papa Francesco…”

Pope Francis chose Indonesia as the first country to visit during his 11-day tour of Asia and Oceania from September 2 to 13. During his three-day visit here, the thunderous cheers of those who welcomed him wherever he went continue to resonate in the hearts of all Indonesian people.

His Apostolic Visit is an historic moment not only for the Catholic Church in Indonesia but also for Indonesian society. Many people are amazed and inspired by his simple, humble, and caring nature and his universal message of love, brotherhood, peace, and prosperity that transcends the boundaries of religion and faith.

Pope Francis’ presence has deeply touched the hearts of many, serving as a living testament to the theme of his apostolic visit: faith, fraternity, and mercy.

Addressing the 80,000 people present at Gelora Bung Karno Stadium – and the whole of Indonesia, given that it was live broadcast on all television stations in the country – the Pope encouraged people across the islands to “show your goodness and kindness with your characteristic smile” and to “walk together for the good of society and of the Church! Be builders of hope [which] opens us up to endless joy”.

His visit ignited a renewed zeal among the sisters and partners-in-mission in Indonesia, who had the opportunity to be in his presence, meet him, be in his presence, and listen to his words. Here are some of their stories:

Sr. Anastasia Sunarni

My heart almost stopped when I saw Pope Francis enter the cathedral in his wheelchair with his distinctive smile; I was so happy. The quiet, calm atmosphere suddenly turned into a sea of ​​joy as the whole room roared to welcome him and receive his apostolic blessing.

During the meeting, he heartily listened to testimonials. His simplicity, compassion, and empathy have inspired me to ask myself: what are the characteristics of a leader who truly serves with the heart?

Age is not an obstacle for him to be present, greet, bless, and embrace anyone. His attitude reminds me of the words of St John Eudes, oft-repeated by St Mary Euphrasia: ‘One person is of more value than the whole world.’

(Watch Pope Francis’ meeting with clergy, religious, seminarians, and catechists at Jakarta Cathedral on September 4, 2024, here.)

Veronica Purwaningsih, Social Services employee, Yogyakarta

After a twelve-hour bus journey, we arrived bursting with energy to attend the Pope’s Mass in Jakarta. The atmosphere leading up to Mass was very calm; the rain fell for a moment and then turned into thin clouds, depicting an outpouring of blessings and coolness. Then, as the Pope’s motorcade entered the Gelora Bung Karno Stadium, the cheers were endless as the people sang, “Christ is Glorious; Christ is Glorious,”

The sermon delivered was truly profound. Quoting Saint Teresa of Calcutta, he reminded us, “Even if you reap nothing, never tire of sowing.” He said that even if we encounter disappointment, we must remain hopeful. It’s a difficult invitation and suggestion, but that’s what we have to do as disciples of God. We must not be imprisoned by failure, but we must keep moving and doing good.

I will never cease to tell the story of meeting the Pope at Mass at Gelora Bung Karno Stadium. This once-in-a-lifetime experience has impelled me to strive for goodness throughout my life. I hope and pray that this spirit will never dim.

(Watch the Holy Mass at Gelora Bung Karno Stadium in Jakarta on September 5, 2024 here)

Sr. Irmina Catur Reno Amumpuni [main picture]

“Who am I that the mother of my Lord should come and visit me?” These words of Elizabeth at the visit of Mother Mary echoed within me as I, too, muttered the words, “Who am I that I should meet Pope Francis?”

With deep gratitude and joy in my heart I accompanied the elementary students to greet his arrival at the Presidential Palace. I felt the greetings of friendship he offered to everyone present by his gentle smile and happy eyes. My meeting with the Pope made me realize that I, too, am chosen, desired, and loved with a special love.

From my encounter with Pope Francis, I learned about enthusiasm, about the strength to continue to share joy and peace with everyone I meet with a smile that brings life.

His words continue to echo in my heart: “Do not grow weary of setting sail and casting your nets; do not grow weary of dreaming and building again a civilization of peace! Always dare to dream of fraternity!  Guided by the word of the Lord, I encourage you to sow seeds of love, confidently tread the path of dialogue.”

 (Watch Pope Francis being welcomed at the Istana Negara Presidential Palace Hall in Jakarta, here)

Lusia Supriawati, a teacher at Santa Maria Fatima Kindergarten, Jakarta

When it was announced that Pope Francis would soon arrive at the Madya stadium, the people surged towards the barrier, and I was afraid I would be unable to see him through the crowd. With my heart beating fast, I recalled the story of Zacchaeus and climbed up upon a chair so I, too, could catch a glimpse of the Pope.

As Francis passed by, I couldn’t help but exclaim with tearful eyes, ‘Papa.’ Praying fervently, I felt my body become small, and a dove from the sky poured out red light from above my head down to my feet. The tighter I clenched my hands, the more I felt God pouring the Holy Spirit on me at that moment. This experience of feeling God’s has taught me that faith can make miracles come true.

(Watch the Holy Mass presided over by Pope Francis in the Gelora Bung Karno Stadium here.)