Pope says Indonesia can be example of interreligious harmony for world

VATICAN CITY - By promoting dialogue and defending the rights of minorities, Catholics in Indonesia will contribute to the harmony of their nation and will be an example to people in other parts of the world, Pope Benedict XVI told the country's bishops.

"Continue to bear witness to the image and likeness of God in each man, woman and child, regardless of their faith, by encouraging everyone to be open to dialogue in the service of peace and harmony," the pope told the bishops Oct. 7.

The 36 bishops of Indonesia were making their "ad limina" visits to brief the pope and Vatican officials on what is happening in their dioceses. Catholics make up about 3 percent of the population in Indonesia; Muslims account for more than 85 percent of the population, and there are significant communities of Protestants, Hindus and Buddhists.

The pope told the bishops, "By doing everything possible to ensure that the rights of minorities in your country are respected, you further the cause of tolerance and mutual harmony in your country and beyond."

While Indonesia's constitution recognizes the religious freedom of all of its citizens and the country has a tradition of interreligious harmony, the growth of fundamentalist movements over the past 10 years has led to tensions and even violence, including the destruction of churches and mosques, several bishops told Catholic News Service.

Pope Benedict told the bishops, "Ensure that those whom you shepherd know that they, as Christians, are to be agents of peace, perseverance and charity."

Even when unjustly attacked, he said, Christians must follow the example of Jesus, who "taught us to respond in all situations with forgiveness, mercy and love in truth."

Peaceful coexistence and cooperation among Indonesia's population of various religious and ethnic groups means the country is "well-placed to make important contributions to the quest for peace and understanding among the peoples of the world," the pope said.

Like Christians everywhere, the Catholic community in Indonesia has an obligation to share with others the Gospel message, he said.

The first way to share God's love with humanity is to be loving and charitable, the pope said.

"This will not only contribute to the spiritual vitality of the church as she grows in confidence through humble yet courageous witness; it will also strengthen Indonesian society by promoting those values that your fellow citizens hold dear: tolerance, unity and justice for all citizens," the pope said.

"The freedom to live and preach the Gospel can never be taken for granted and must always be justly and patiently upheld," Pope Benedict said.