Entering Holy Week, Jakarta Cathedral Calls for Ecological Repentance

Jakarta Cathedral is holding a series of Holy Week events from Maundy Thursday to Easter Sunday. This year, Jakarta Cathedral is calling for ecological repentance among all humanity.

Father Macarius Maharsono, the head pastor of Jakarta Cathedral, stated that Maundy Thursday begins with a reflection on the event of Jesus washing the feet of the apostles.

“It has two major meanings that are very relevant to us now: first, Jesus washing the feet is an expression of God who wants to cleanse the dirt and dust of human sin, and this will be carried out continuously,” said Macarius to reporters before the mass on Thursday (2/4/2026).

He explained that this reflection occurs again when Catholics perform cleansing of sins, support one another, and then give life. He then drew a connection to the current context, inviting humanity to engage in ecological repentance.

“In the context of the present time or this year, when the Church is strongly urging all humanity to undertake ecological repentance,” he clarified.

According to him, cleansing sins today must be done towards nature and humanity. Because nature and humanity live side by side.

“Because we must carry out cleansing of our sins against nature and against humanity. Thus, returning to a just and civilised humanity is one that accepts and gives itself as a companion in life’s journey with the entire contents of the universe,” he stated.

Macarius described caring for the Earth as caring for our shared home. There must be solidarity, a willingness to help, and support for all life.

“And if that must go through suffering or pain or sacrifices. That is the main theme we are implementing this year,” he said.