Indonesia: Bishop-elect of Labuan Bajo fosters interfaith brotherhood with Muslim Community

In preparation for his episcopal ordination, Bishop-elect of Labuan Bajo, Mgr. Maksimus Regus, made a significant visit to the Secretariat Office of the West Manggarai branch of Nahdlatul Ulama (PCNU) in Labuan Bajo on Monday, October 14. 

This visit highlighted the growing interfaith cooperation between the Catholic Church and the Muslim community in the region.

Nahdlatul Ulama (NU), Indonesia's largest Islamic organization, was founded in 1926 and is known for promoting a moderate and inclusive interpretation of Islam. It emphasizes tolerance, social harmony, and collaboration between faiths, making it a key partner in fostering religious unity in the country.

The visit, accompanied by members of the episcopal ordination committee, was seen as a gesture of brotherhood and a step toward strengthening interfaith ties in West Manggarai. 

Ustad (teacher or Islamic scholar) Radit, in his opening prayer, called the gathering a divine moment, emphasizing that it was part of God's plan rather than a mere coincidence.

Mgr. Maksimus and his entourage were warmly received by Haji Ishak Jabi, Chairperson of PCNU West Manggarai, along with hundreds of Muslim faithful gathered at the PCNU courtyard. 

The event brought together key figures from both religious communities, including the Vicar of Labuan Bajo, who also chairs the Interfaith Harmony Forum (FKUB), several priests, NU leaders, and representatives from Islamic organizations such as Ansor and Banser.

In his address, Haji Ishak expressed Nahdlatul Ulama’s unwavering support for the establishment of the Diocese of Labuan Bajo and Mgr. Maksimus’s appointment as bishop. 

"On behalf of NU, we fully support the formation of the Diocese of Labuan Bajo and congratulate Bishop Maksimus Regus on his appointment," said Haji Ishak. 

He also underscored the importance of the event in promoting religious tolerance in the region.

Mgr. Maksimus responded to the warm welcome by affirming the significance of the visit as more than a symbolic gesture, but as a meaningful step toward shared peace and brotherhood. 

"The presence of the Church, especially the Diocese of Labuan Bajo, reflects openness. Together, we will work to bring greater good to West Manggarai and Labuan Bajo. The future is a journey of encounters and brotherhood for the sake of humanity," he said.

The bishop-elect also invited NU and all attendees to participate in the success of his episcopal ordination, scheduled for November 2, 2024.

The gathering concluded with a distribution of 200 aid packages, organized by the Social Charitable Division of the Episcopal Ordination Committee, for the Muslim attendees. Each package contained essential items such as 5 kg of rice, 1 liter of cooking oil, 10 packs of instant noodles, 10 eggs, and 2 kg of sugar.

This heartfelt visit was not only a symbol of interfaith solidarity but also a reflection of Mgr. Maksimus’s episcopal motto, Ut Mundus Salvetur Per Ipsum ("That the world might be saved through Him"). 

It demonstrated his commitment to promoting unity and the common good, reaching beyond the Catholic community to embrace people of all faiths.