Bring church bombers to court

We, the Indonesian community in New York and its vicinity, who are gathered under the Concern For Humanity Forum, made up of various churches and community organizations, hereby express our deep and strong concern regarding the recent bombings at various churches in Indonesia on Christmas Eve as services were taking place.

We condemn and deplore these acts of terrorism.

We strongly hope the government of Indonesia would arrest those involved in the conspiracy, and take legal actions against them immediately.

The government of Indonesia should also reveal to its citizens those responsible for this evil conspiracy and provocation.

We earnestly request the government of Indonesia to assure the security and religious freedom of all Christians and minority groups, in order that they may live without fear of being terrorized.

We also would like the government of Indonesia to abolish the law that requires each citizen to declare their religious conviction on important documents such as the identity card etc. This requirement has been used by a minor faction in the society to threaten the safety of citizens from minority groups and of Christian belief.

Our hope is that this joint statement will be taken into serious consideration by the honorable President and all in the government of the Republic of Indonesia.

This joint statement was put in writing at the Concern For Humanity Forum's meeting at Forrest Hills, New York on Dec. 25, 2000.

ROBERT J. MEWENGKANG

Concern For Humanity Forum

New York