'Brotherhood, harmony' needed to avoid rifts

JAKARTA (JP): The government appealed to Catholic community on Thursday to develop sincere brotherhood and harmony with people from different religious groups.

In its statement, read by the ministry of religious affairs' director general of guidance for Catholic community, J.T. Sukotjoatmojo, the government said the spirit of brotherhood would prevent people from being provoked to fight each other.

"Brotherhood and true harmony can be established through a lot of dialog and communication between people from different religious groups," Sukotjoatmodjo said.

The statement was released in observance of Christmas, which occurs on Saturday.

Sukotjoatmodjo also called on Catholics to take the initiative in the development of brotherhood and harmony.

The government expects this year's Christmas, during which the Muslim fasting month of Ramadhan falls, to bring peace, secure feelings and happiness, according to Sukotjoatmodjo.

Meanwhile, in their joint Christmas message, the Indonesian Bishops' Conference (KWI) and Communion of Churches in Indonesia (PGI) called on Christians to cooperate with other components of the nation to develop unity, peace, justice and welfare.

"Suspicion should be brushed aside and respect for each other should instead be promoted in line with the Christmas spirit," the religious authorities said.

The year-long sectarian conflict in Maluku, which is still underway, involving Christian and Muslim groups, will cast a shadow on this year's Christmas.

Adding to the concern was the arson attack last week on a building complex belonging to a Christian foundation. One student was killed during the attack. (jun)