Along with the challenges facing Indonesia after the December 26 tsunami, Christians in Indonesia are continuing to be confronted with difficulties in this predominantly Muslim nation.
According to VOM sources in Indonesia, three new churches have been threatened with closure when the head of the North Grogol community where they are located accused the churches of disturbing the community, as well as meeting illegally in business buildings.
The three churches, Abraham Camp Church (GKA), Bellezza Indonesia Bethel Church (GBI) and GKRI Karmel, confirmed that the meeting halls could be used for business or other purposes, including religious meetings. The pastor of the GKA church, K.A.M. Jusufroni, is firm that the church will continue to meet. They have a legal certificate from the Religion Department, authorizing them to meet. "Nothing can stop Christians to worship God," he said.
In a separate incident, a priest in Purworejo in Central Java, Thomas Harsidiyono (50), was found dead in a church retreat compound on January 14 with massive head wounds. Despite the string of attacks against Christians in various areas of Indonesia, the provincial police chief said that the attack was "probably" robbery. However, police have frequently downplayed incidents of violence against Christians.
Pray for these churches facing possible closure, as well as the parishioners dealing with the loss of Fr. Harsidiyono.
For more information on the difficulties facing Christians in Indonesia, click here.
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