On September 1, an Indonesian court sentenced three Indonesian women to three-year sentences for allegedly attempting to convert Muslim children to Christianity. In actuality, Rebekka Zakaria, Eti Pangesti and Ratna Bangun had required all children attending their program to get parental permission to attend. Furthermore, no children were known to have converted to Christianity because of the program. Proof for the accusations came from photographs showing Muslim children at the program.
Throughout the trial, Islamic militants had threatened the lives of the women, Christian leaders and even the judges if there was not a conviction. On the final day, a group arrived with a coffin, saying it was for the women, if they were acquitted.
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Rebekka Zakaria, Eti Pangesti and Ratna Bangun in Court; Protestors Outside Courthouse |
The women plan to appeal, but observers are sceptical whether true justice is possible in the face of the intimidation that was clearly evident during their trial.
Pray for peace and strength of mind and spirit as these three servants of God serve their time in prison. Pray for wisdom for the upcoming appeals.
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