Pope Francis Kisses Hand of Muslim Imam, Declares All Religions ‘Have a Role to Play’
Pope Francis is embarking upon a 12-day trip through four nations in Southeast Asia and Oceania.
His intent with the voyage is to pledge the Catholic Church will combat religious violence while inspiring stronger ties to other religions.
On Thursday, the Associated Press reported the Pope made his first stop in Jakarta, Indonesia, home to the largest Muslim population in the world.
A notable moment came when the Pope — in a wheelchair — appeared next to Indonesia’s grand imam, Nasaruddin Umar, at the entrance to the “Tunnel of Friendship” which connects Istiqlal Mosque to the nearby Catholic Cathedral, Our Lady of the Assumption.
It was here that the Pope received a kiss on the head from the Imam while kissing his hand in response.
