Christmas, Ramadhan full of blessing

The destruction of the Doulos Christian Center on Dec. 15 by 300 neighbors is a tragedy for all Indonesians of every faith. This arson and knifing attack was indeed a hateful and unjustifiable act. Amien Rais was 100 percent correct when he stated: "The attackers have no religious morals."

There can be no justification for such a crime. In their monthly devotional booklet Segarlah jiwaku ( My soul is refreshed) and their bulletin Juru Syafaat Nasional (spirituality and humanity), the Doulos Center teaches good things which help people grow in their faith and become better, more peaceful, more prayerful and loving citizens. Here's an example from their November issue: "A successful Christian leader is one who is able to associate oneself with people from all walks of life".

The violent act burning the Christian-owned complex, housing many students in the school of theology and burning also the drug rehabilitation and psychiatric center, is so out of character for the special Christmas and Ramadhan season; it provided such promise of a wonderful opportunity for both religions to celebrate the blessings of God together.

We can be thankful that the police arrested six of the attackers, but that is not good enough. Where are the others? Unless they are arrested and prosecuted as well for their part in such a heinous crime against God and man, won't this kind of violence and murder continue as a way of life in Indonesia?

Though I am neither acquainted with, nor connected in any way with the Doulos organization, I am a former 10-year resident of East Jakarta and have observed their good work to help those in need regardless of their religious background. I do hope to come to Jakarta soon during my three-week Christmas vacation to stand on that hallowed ground at the Doulos complex for a few silent moments of meditation, and pray that those who showed no mercy there may be shown mercy. Some of my fellow teachers have told me that they are also planning to make such a pilgrimage to the Doulos complex.

FRANK D. ADAMS

Malang, East Java