A Marian festival in Indonesia brings Christians and Muslims together.

Indonesians on Flores Island have united to celebrate a religious festival dedicated to the Blessed Virgin Mary from July, 09^th to August, 14^th, wherein hundreds of Muslims and Christians participate in processions and prayers whilst carrying a Marian statue to launch the festival locally known as Golo Koe at St. Martin’s Parish in Bari, Flores.

The five-week-long event with the state of Our Lady of the Assumption is celebrated in 26 parishes across the Diocese of Labaun Bajo. Originally, the procession was meant to take place on the water. But due to weather changes, it was changed to take place on land.

Though initially planned as a maritime procession, the pilgrimage was later shifted to an overland route due to inclement weather. It was launched from the Vicariate House in Pacar and received in Bari with traditional Manggarai dances, songs, and rituals. They later lined the streets with bamboo to welcome the Marian statue, which is described as “a powerful witness of interfaith solidarity”.

A festival that transcends religious lines –

Bishop Maksimus Regus presided over the opening Mass and reflected on Mary as a model of unity and presence. He stressed that “the involvement of our Muslim brothers and sisters reflects the inclusive spirit of this festival”.

The vicar general of the diocese and festival chairperson also pointed out that the event goes beyond something religious. He dubbed it “a spiritual and cultural movement of togetherness — transcending religious and ethnic lines”.

On August 14, the event will conclude with a large procession from Waterfront City to Golo Koe Hill, which is meant to be a spiritual and cultural climax for the Marian festival.

As highlighted, in addition to the celebration of Mary’s Assumption into Heaven, the festival highlights the rich faith traditions, indigenous identity, and communal hope, which are central to the Catholic Church’s identity on Flores Island.

Team Maverick