Church donations

In the Nation needs new development paradigm (Dec. 28, 1996), Dr. Loekman Soetrisno notes: "The fact that most churches also receive donations from abroad -- mostly from Western countries with Western cultures -- makes it easier for Christian society to win the competition..."

I would like to remind him that many rich Arab and other Moslem countries (Brunei, Egypt, Iran, and even Pakistan) send generous donations to Indonesia's Moslem communities, a fact that was confirmed by our minister of religious affairs at a press meeting during his recent visit to several Arab countries.

Indonesian churches should become self-sufficient by getting support from their own members and congregations. Overseas donations (if any) cannot be relied on, but I believe Dr. Loekman Soetrisno could release himself from such biases.

MONA LOHANDA

Jakarta