LBFTA and East Manggarai Regency Explore Partnership to Strengthen Catholic Religious Tourism in Flores

Labuan Bajo — June 30, 2026 — Labuan Bajo Flores Tourism Authority (LBFTA) welcomed a delegation from the East Manggarai Regency Tourism and Creative Economy Office (Disparekraf Manggarai Timur) on Tuesday (June 30) to discuss a strategic partnership aimed at activating St. Theresia Old Church of Lengko Ajang as part of the Catholic Religious Tourism Travel Pattern of Flores, while supporting the production of a documentary commemorating the church’s 100th anniversary in 2027.

The meeting reflected a shared commitment to strengthening faith-based tourism across Flores by transforming religious heritage into meaningful travel experiences that celebrate history, culture, and local identity.

During the discussion, the East Manggarai Tourism and Creative Economy Office expressed its appreciation for LBFTA’s initiative in developing the Catholic Religious Tourism Travel Pattern of Flores, a collaborative roadmap officially introduced in September 2024. The document was prepared together with the Diocese of Ruteng, the Archdiocese of Ende, the Diocese of Maumere, the Diocese of Larantuka, and tourism offices across Flores, providing pilgrims and travelers with a comprehensive guide to the island’s rich Catholic heritage.

Within the travel pattern, St. Theresia Old Church of Lengko Ajang is recognized as the 15th destination and one of six officially designated Catholic religious tourism sites in East Manggarai Regency.

Looking ahead to 2027, the parish will celebrate its centennial since its establishment in 1927. The East Manggarai Government views this milestone as more than a religious celebration—it is an opportunity to activate one of Flores’ significant heritage destinations while generating new tourism experiences rooted in faith, history, and local culture.

To support this vision, the East Manggarai Tourism and Creative Economy Office proposed two integrated initiatives: the 100th Anniversary Celebration of St. Theresia Parish Lengko Ajang as a major religious-cultural event, and the production of the documentary film “Gendang One, Lingko Pe’ang.” The documentary is expected to become a valuable storytelling asset supporting the promotion of Catholic religious tourism in Flores for both domestic and international audiences.

“We highly appreciate LBFTA’s leadership in developing the Catholic Religious Tourism Travel Pattern of Flores. The upcoming centennial of St. Theresia Parish is not only a historic milestone for our community but also an opportunity to bring one of Flores’ most meaningful spiritual destinations to a wider audience. We hope this initiative can become a collaborative program involving LBFTA, the Diocese of Ruteng, and the East Manggarai Regency Government,” said Hieronimus E. Dona, Secretary of the East Manggarai Tourism and Creative Economy Office.

LBFTA welcomed the proposal and emphasized the importance of collaboration among local governments, dioceses, communities, and tourism stakeholders in bringing the Flores Religious Tourism Travel Pattern into practical implementation.

LBFTA views this proposal as a valuable opportunity to further activate destinations that have already been identified within the Catholic Religious Tourism Travel Pattern of Flores. Religious tourism is not only about visiting sacred places—it is about preserving history, strengthening local identity, and creating meaningful experiences that benefit surrounding communities. LBFTA look forward to continuing discussions with all stakeholders to realize this collaborative initiative.

The meeting concluded with a mutual commitment to continue technical discussions involving LBFTA, the Diocese of Ruteng, the East Manggarai Regency Government, and other relevant partners to explore collaborative programs leading up to the parish’s centennial celebration in 2027.

As Flores continues to diversify its tourism portfolio beyond nature-based attractions, initiatives such as the activation of St. Theresia Old Church of Lengko Ajang demonstrate the growing role of religious and cultural heritage in creating authentic, sustainable, and community-centered tourism experiences throughout the island.

— Engel Vione
IT Support Specialist & Public Communication Officer
Labuan Bajo Flores Tourism Authority (LBFTA)