Gereja Santo Fransiskus Xaverius

St. Francis Xavier Church is the first Catholic church built in the Indonesian Capital City (IKN), East Kalimantan. Located in the IKN Worship Area, this complex is designed to be a center of worship for Catholics as well as part of an inclusive spiritual infrastructure in the new capital city of Indonesia. In addition to being a place of worship, this church is also expected to be a pilgrimage destination for Catholics from various regions.

History and Development Process

The auction process for this project began on August 15, 2024 by the Ministry of Public Works and Public Housing (PUPR). The official construction contract was signed on December 20, 2024. This church is part of the development of a religious harmony area in IKN.

Contractor and Project Management

The construction of this church is carried out by a consortium of PT Wijaya Karya Bangunan Gedung Tbk. (WEGE) and PT Brantas Abipraya (Persero) as the implementing contractor. Meanwhile, construction management is held by PT Yodya Karya (Persero). The contract value of this project is IDR 704.9 billion, all funded through the 2024 State Budget (APBN).

Design and Facilities

The St. Francis Xaverius Church Complex has a total building area of ​​​​approximately 10,612.66 square meters and is located on an area of ​​​​2.023 hectares. The main facilities in this complex include:

• A four-story Catholic church building covering an area of ​​​​8,586 m²
• A three-story Bishop's Residence covering an area of ​​​​1,770 m²
• A two-story supporting building (canteen) covering an area of ​​​​256 m²
• Church plaza
• Main courtyard and dining courtyard
• Plaza Jalan Salib
• Prayer garden and bishop's residence garden
• Parking area

The architectural design combines elements of local Kalimantan culture with Catholic symbolism, creating a contextual and functional worship space.

Basilica Status Determination Process

Although often referred to as a "basilica" by some media, the official status of a basilica must be determined by the Holy See. Currently, St. Francis Xavier Church is still in the application stage and has not yet been canonically granted basilica status. The determination process requires time and special administrative requirements, including review by Roman Catholic Church authorities.