“We are 100 Percent Indonesian and 100 Percent Catholic”: Indonesian Religious in Rome Tell Their Visiting Minister

In a heartfelt affirmation of Indonesia’s global commitment to religious harmony and humanitarian collaboration, more than a hundred Indonesian priests, brothers, and religious sisters serving in Rome gathered for a dialogue with Indonesia’s Minister of Religious Affairs, Prof. Dr. KH. Nasaruddin Umar, MA, on October 26 at the Embassy of the Republic of Indonesia to the Holy See.

The gathering brought together members of the Association of Indonesian Religious in the Eternal City (IRRIKA) and REHAT, a network of Indonesian religious serving in the generalates of Catholic congregations, symbolizing a growing diaspora community.

Today, over 1,800 Indonesian religious men and women serve or study in Italy, nearly half of them in Rome, making Indonesians the largest Asian religious community in the Eternal City. Many play active roles in Vatican institutions, pontifical universities, and the leadership of religious congregations, contributing significantly to the universal Church. 

Diplomacy Rooted in Faith and Humanity

Indonesian Ambassador to the Holy See, Michael Trias Kuncahyono, warmly welcomed Minister Nasaruddin. He recalled that official relations between Indonesia and the Holy See began in 1947, just two years after Indonesian independence, through the advocacy of Bishop Albertus Soegijapranata, SJ.

The Ambassador emphasized that Indonesia–Vatican cooperation remains grounded in humanitarian values, intercultural respect, and interfaith dialogue. He expressed hope that the government would continue supporting Indonesian clergy and religious in formation in Rome, describing them as “future leaders capable of strengthening unity and contributing to national progress.”

Dialogue on Love, Ecology, and Interfaith Solidarity

Minister Nasaruddin’s address centered on love, ecology, and unity across faiths. He noted that Indonesia, the world’s largest Muslim-majority democracy, is home to more than 280 million people, where approximately 86.7 percent are Muslim and 10.9 percent Christian, including nearly 8 million Catholics. Hindus, Buddhists, Confucians, and adherents of indigenous beliefs also form part of Indonesia’s rich religious mosaic, all contributing to the national motto Bhinneka Tunggal Ika (“Unity in Diversity”).

Drawing from decades of interreligious experience, the Minister underscored that love and humanity lie at the heart of every religion. He recalled traditions in which the Prophet welcomed people of other faiths into the mosque to pray—an example of openness that continues to inspire today’s pursuit of peace.

As a symbol of Indonesia’s unique model of harmony, he highlighted the “friendship tunnel” connecting Jakarta’s Istiqlal Mosque and Our Lady of the Assumption Cathedral.

The Minister also proposed a shared mission of strengthening “ecotheologi”, a theological vision that nurtures the relationship between humanity, creation, and the Creator amid growing ecological challenges.

Participants raised issues related to scholarships for advanced theological studies, the recognition of church buildings and sacred spaces, and the implementation of culturally sensitive halal tourism in predominantly Catholic regions such as Labuan Bajo, Flores. The Minister affirmed that cooperative, people-centered approaches are essential for lasting progress.

One priest voiced a sentiment shared by many: “We are 100 percent Indonesian and 100 percent Catholic. Faith and love of country go together for the good of all.”

Strengthening Religious Diplomacy for a Wounded World

Catholic representatives expressed enthusiasm for deeper collaboration. Fr. Tarpin emphasized that sincere dialogue strengthens both faith and friendship, while Fr. Postinus appealed for expanded scholarship opportunities for clergy and religious preparing for ministry in Indonesia.

A Divine Word Missionary priest highlighted interfaith ecological initiatives aligned with Laudato Si’ and the importance of national support for parish communities in remote mission areas. A religious sister called for ongoing pastoral accompaniment for minority groups struggling with identity concerns, while upholding what she called “the religion of the heart.”

Minister Nasaruddin reiterated his commitment to cultivating a form of religious diplomacy grounded in trust, compassion, and authentic encounter, especially vital as the world faces war, displacement, poverty, and climate emergencies. He encouraged Indonesian religious in Rome to continue guiding young people with a language of faith that is “deep, relatable, and full of hope.”

As the encounter concluded, Church and state representatives expressed a shared desire to strengthen Indonesia’s spiritual footprint in Rome and deepen collaboration that promotes peace, solidarity, and care for creation, values cherished deeply by both Muslims and Christians in Indonesia.

(Kasmir Nema, an SVD missionary based in the Vatican, contributes regularly to Radio Veritas Asia and other Catholic platforms and magazines.)