Update: Indonesian Judge Shouts at Protestors, Another Church Closure in West Java

Protestors in the court room for the trial of three women accused of attempting to convert Muslim children caused such uproar on August 18 that the Chief Justice, Judge Hasby exploded in anger, shouting, "This court has its rules and regulations! Who dared to tell us to hand down the verdict now?"  According to Assist News report, the uproar followed the judge's decision to postpone the proceedings for a week to allow the defense to prepare for new elements introduced by the prosecution.  Observers question the possibility of an impartial judgment, since the judges have been faced threats by Muslim militants.

In recent weeks, the Persecution and Prayer Alert has reported on several church closures in West Java.  VOMC sources in Indonesia report that, on August 21, hundreds of Muslim protestors belonging to the Aliansi Gerakan AntiPemurtadan (Anti-Apostasy Movement Alliance) entered the Pasundan Christian Church in Dayeuhkolot, South Bandung during the worship service.  They demanded that the fifty-year-old church immediately stop their activities and close the church.  Prayer is requested for the pastor, his family and the 300-400 members of the church.

  • Country Information

    Population
    279,476,346 (2023 est.)

    Ethnicity (%)
    Javanese (40.1), Sundanese (15.5), Malay (3.7), Balak (3.6), Madurese (3), Betawi (2.9), Minangkabau (2.7), Buginese (2.7), Bantenese (2), Other (23.8)

    Religion (%)
    Muslim (87.2), Christian (9.9), Hindu (1.7), Other (0.9), Unspecified (0.4)

    Leader
    President Joko Widodo (2014)

    Government type
    Presidential republic

    Legal system
    Civil law system based on the Roman-Dutch model and influenced by customary law

    Sources: CIA World Factbook.

  • Pray for Indonesia

    Pray for the continued growth of the church in Indonesia, despite the intense opposition and persecution that has taken place. May the destructive plans of the enemy to eradicate Christianity be frustrated and nullified.

    Pray that whatever is intended for evil, God will turn around for good – causing such hatred and violence to not only discredit extremism, but to also compel many to seek salvation in Christ... including the perpetrators of persecution.

Indonesia News

  • 2023 Year in Review
    A group of believers is worshipping together.
    Believers worship faithfully amidst much opposition.
    Photo: VOMC

    Indonesia has the largest Muslim population in the world. While freedom of religion is guaranteed in the constitution, Muslims generally receive preferential treatment from the government. In order to establish and operate places of worship, permits are officially required; yet, in practise, only non-Muslims must comply. These permits are very difficult for churches to obtain. To be granted an official permit, each congregation must be comprised of a minimum of 90 members and needs authorization from at least 60 non-Christian residents in the area.

  • Mob Attack Forces Church to Host Services Online
    A woman is standing with her hands lifted and eyes closed. She is with a congregation.
    A worship gathering in Indonesia.
    Photo: VOMC

    In the early morning of September 16th, a mob consisting of approximately 50 people had gathered at the front gate of the Maranatha Chapel in Depok City. Mob members angrily banged on the gate while shouting and causing a disturbance. Thankfully, at the time, no service was taking place inside the church building and the crowd eventually dispersed.