An interfaith prayer gathering was held in Bali on Sunday, 27 April 2025, to honor the late Pope Francis, who passed away on 21 April 2025.
Organized by the Upaya Indonesia Damai Foundation (YUID), the event brought together religious leaders, congregants, and guests from various faiths at the Special Economic Zone (KEK) Kura Kura in Denpasar, emphasizing solidarity and peace.
Leaders from Multiple Faiths Lead Prayers
The ceremony was led in turns by representatives of different religions: Saputra (Catholic), Ilham Saputra (Islam), Jero Mangku I Made Sandya (Hindu), and Maria Nastiti (Protestant). Participants lit candles and bowed their heads in solemn silence, offering prayers for Pope Francis’ legacy of compassion and unity.
Heart-Shaped Art Installation Reflects Pope’s Vision
During the ceremony, attendees placed candles on a heart-shaped art installation, a creation involving more than 1.000 children from across Indonesia. According to Beau Reyhan Sinatria, a representative of the organizers, the installation was inspired by Pope Francis’ deep sensitivity to the human spirit.
“In 2021, amid the pandemic, Pope Francis reached out to the world’s youth with a simple ‘how are you,’ inspiring them to understand themselves beyond ethnicity, religion, or race,” said Sinatria.
Doves Soar Over Ceremony in Touching Moment
A poignant scene unfolded when dozens of doves flew around the Three Mountains bamboo pavilion, the event’s venue. “It seems the universe joins in with the Holy Father,” the event host said, observing the moment.
The gathering reaffirmed Pope Francis’ enduring message of fraternity and interfaith harmony. “Today, people of different faiths pray together here as an embodiment of tolerance and love in the midst of diversity,” the host added.
Pope’s Legacy Continues to Inspire
Sinatria highlighted that although Pope Francis has passed, his legacy lives on in the values of humanity, inclusive education, and intercultural dialogue. One tangible symbol of his impact in Indonesia is the Heart installation, a contemplative space representing love, dialogue, and interfaith connection.
“For us, Pope Francis is a beacon of diversity, inclusion, and a love for peace,” Sinatria said.
The interfaith prayer gathering in Bali stood as a testament that Pope Francis’ legacy continues to inspire efforts toward maintaining harmony and humanity both locally and around the world.
