'Brotherhood, harmony' needed to avoid rifts

'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)