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In Vatican‘s Heart, Nestled Hope and Frigid Forebearance
As the world awaited Pope Francis Calls for Peace in Ukraine and Gaza on Christmas“>Pope Francis‘ appearance on the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica to deliver his Christmas blessing, the biting cold of Rome offered an unforgettable glimpse into the spirit of the season.
Hanung Bramantyo, a familiar face in Indonesian cinema, shared his experience of the chilly vigil, with temperatures plummeting to a near-freezing 0 degree Celsius. Despite the cold, he encountered many Indonesian Catholic pilgrims, their devotion warming the frostbitten air. It was an unexpected moment, an intimate snapshot of Christmas eve in the heart of the Vatican.
"Although we were waiting for the Pope to appear, the mood was serene. It was like a private moment for Christians and Catholics around the world to cherish with their family," Bramantyo reflected, his eyes perhaps still glistening from the’esperienza’.
Pope Francis’ appearance, however, was delayed until the following morning, leaving the faithful to retire for the night with their hopes and prayers tucked into the quiet embrace of the ancient city.
As the evening unfolded, Bramantyo took a moment to extend his heartfelt Christmas wishes to all Christians and Catholics celebrating around the globe. The director of ‘Ipar Adalah Maut’, or ‘Father-In-Law Is Death’ in English, fervently hopes that this Christmas brings renewed blessings and peace to Indonesia, his beloved homeland.
About Hanung Bramantyo
Hanung Bramantyo is an award-winning Indonesian filmmaker, with notable works including ‘Get Ran Away’, ‘Cinta Risizada’, and ‘Subur’, among others. His films often tackle social issues with a blend of comedy and drama, making them relatable to a wide range of Indonesian audiences.
