In a rare and deeply personal milestone, an Indonesian infant received the Sacrament of Baptism at St. Peter’s Basilica in the Vatican—an honor typically reserved for Vatican residents or those granted special permission.
On May 26, 2025, 18-month-old Damian Orlin Baskoro, the only child of Daniel Oscar Baskoro and Erlinda Aji Ayuningrum, was baptized at the iconic basilica, marking what his family and clergy described as an extraordinary spiritual moment for Indonesian Catholics.
“We were completely surprised and deeply grateful when we received a letter from the Vatican authority saying our son had been given the opportunity to be baptized at St. Peter’s Basilica,” said Daniel Oscar Baskoro, speaking from Rome. “It’s an extraordinary joy and blessing.”
Originally from Pringwulung Parish in Yogyakarta under the Archdiocese of Semarang, the couple submitted a formal request to the Vatican, enclosing the required ecclesiastical documents in the hope that their son might be baptized in the heart of Catholicism.
“We never expected that our request would be responded to by the Vatican,” Baskoro admitted.
The ceremony was presided over by Fr. Benoit Alloggia, OSB, pastor of the parish community based at the basilica.
Serving as godfather was Indonesian Carmelite priest Fr. Christianus Surinono, OCD, who currently holds the position of Definitor General of the Discalced Carmelite Order in Rome.
“I feel honoured to serve as the Godfather of the baby Damian—perhaps one of the first Indonesian children to receive the Sacrament of Baptism at this sacred place,” said Fr. Christianus. “It is truly a blessing, as baptisms here are incredibly rare.”
The couple said they were overwhelmed with gratitude not only for the Vatican’s invitation but also for the support they received from their parish and broader faith community in Indonesia.
“As members of the Catholic community at Pringwulung Parish in Yogyakarta, we want to express our gratitude for all the support and prayers we received from many people,” Baskoro said.
They also extended thanks to priests, religious brothers and sisters, relatives, and close friends who supported them throughout the process and the ceremony.
“As Damian’s parents, we hope he will grow into a mature Christian who brings light, love, and goodness to others,” said Daniel on behalf of himself and his wife.
“Berkah dalem (Javanese for ‘blessings within’). Warm greetings to all LiCAS News readers from both of us here in the Vatican,” he added.
