Cardinal says have 'a simple' Christmas

JAKARTA (JP): Jakarta's Archbishop, Cardinal Darmaatmadja, called on Catholics in the capital to celebrate Christmas in simple but solemn ceremonies.

Echoing an earlier message from the Indonesian Bishops Conference the cardinal appealed to Catholics to show concern and solidarity with the poor, the hardest hit by the monetary crisis.

"The funds which you may have originally allocated for a party would be better used to help people who need assistance and attention," said the archbishop in a statement Monday.

Excessive Christmas parties were regrettable because they went against the real meaning of Christmas, he said.

He reminded Catholics that New Year's Eve coincided with the beginning of the Islamic fasting month of Ramadhan.

"As the majority of the people are observing their fasting service, it is proper for us to show our respect by supporting them so they can perform their religious duties correctly," he said.

Dili bishop Carlos Filipe Ximenes Belo said quoting Jesus in Ermera, East Timor, said that people should endeavor to become the salt and light of the earth.

"Prepare yourself during this Advent period so that you are able to celebrate Christmas well," Belo said in a sermon at a church in Nossa Senhora do Carmo Letafoho, Ermera.

Belo ended a five-day visit to several villages in the regency Tuesday. (33/prb)