PORTALJABAR, BOGOR CITY - Bogor Mayor Dedie A. Rachim visited the Bogor Diocese together with the Bogor City Government (Pemkot) ranks, religious figures, and the Bogor Editor-in-Chief Forum to convey his condolences for the death of Pope Francis.

"On behalf of the government and myself, I express my deepest condolences and sorrow for the death of Pope Francis who was just buried a few days ago in Italy, Rome," he said, Monday (28/4/2025).

On that occasion, he also delivered prayers and messages about the importance of tolerance between religious communities in the city of Bogor, which is expected to inspire, strengthen togetherness, and strengthen the collaborative synergy that has been established so far.

Dedie hopes that togetherness will not only be in an atmosphere of joy, but also in situations of sorrow, by being present and expressing condolences to each other.

As a leader, Pope Francis is remembered as a humble and gregarious person.

When visiting Indonesia, Pope Francis preferred to use ordinary vehicles used by the general public rather than using vehicles that had been prepared and were also used by other heads of state.

"And that is a message of simplicity, because he is a world figure, a figure who has contributed a lot to peace through the power of his position as Pope. He can convey messages of humanity and peace, and world leaders who are in conflict will definitely receive that message. This is an important message from him," he said.

For the visit, Bishop of Bogor Diocese, Mgr. Paskalis Bruno Syukur, expressed his appreciation to the Mayor of Bogor, the Bogor City Government, as well as the media and religious figures.

"Of course, this expresses great support for us Catholics in Bogor, as well as a form of appreciation for the leader of the Catholic Church, Pope Francis, who has been to Indonesia and has also provided positive things for the development of humanity in the world," he said.

As conveyed by Dedie, Paskalis Bruno Syukur also remembered Pope Francis as a person who was humble in life and built tolerance for living in peace with one another.

"Pope Francis always invites us all to build bridges of brotherhood, not to build walls that divide," he said.

He added that this was a message for everyone.

"Together we also want to realize what has been shown, because the values of life shown are the values of humanity that we all aspire to, living in peace with each other," he said. (Bogor City Communications and Information Service/UPI)