In this homily delivered during a Eucharistic celebration in Tuntungan, Indonesia, Pope John Paul II rejoices in the Catholic Church’s unity and growth in Sumatra, noting its fellowship with Christian neighbors and the wider Indonesian ideal of unity in diversity. He presents the Church’s presence as evidence of God’s faithful love and justice, and addresses the universal question of how to inherit eternal life. Jesus’ answer is the commandment to love God wholly and one’s neighbor as oneself, a teaching shared in important respects by Christians and Muslims.

The homily develops this teaching through the parable of the Good Samaritan. Christians must show compassion to every person, regardless of background, especially the sick, imprisoned, poor, and otherwise vulnerable. Christ is portrayed as the ultimate Good Samaritan, healing humanity through mercy and sacrifice; believers imitate him through service and solidarity. The Pope links this vocation to social justice, human dignity, peace, and development, insisting that every person bears God’s image and that lasting progress depends on recognizing God’s primacy. He urges the Church in Sumatra, together with Muslims, to uphold society’s religious and transcendent character, work for justice, and reflect God’s love through practical care for the marginalized.