Easter service to be held at Istora Senayan

JAKARTA (JP): If you are seeking a few words of consolation to restore your soul after the torment of the deepening economic crisis, you could attend a mass Easter service at Istora Senayan Stadium in Central Jakarta on Friday.

At the service, organized by Ambassador Integrity Music, Indonesian Bethel Church Kenisah and Gilbert Lumoindong Ministry, you can also take part in a religious music concert, John Hamenda, chief organizer, said.

John said the concert would feature various types of music, ranging from contemporary rap to slow music, to accommodate people of all ages.

Entry to the service, which being held in commemoration of the resurrection of Jesus Christ, is free of charge.

"People are encouraged to give their time to worship the Lord for all things that happen these days, even for the daily occurrences which are beyond our ability as human beings," he told a press conference Monday.

He also said the congregation would be asked to pray for Indonesia's rapid recovery from the crisis.

The concert, held at a cost of Rp 200 million, will present the country's top musicians, including saxophonist Embong Rahardjo, drummer Jimmy Manopo and pianist Widy A. Kristianty.

Willy Soemantri will play the guitar, Suresh the bass guitar, Denny and Yoram Lopez will be on percussion and Tjahja Djaja, Yorga Elias and Helen Gumanti on keyboard.

Young Yesaya Wilander will also display his talent on drums and religious dancing group Hossana Ministry Dancer will also perform.

The service will be led by Gilbert, who said people needed "spiritual food" as well as edibles, which were becoming increasingly costly.

"We try to give them the spiritual food so that they will spiritually be satisfied," he said.

Twenty thousand worshipers are expected to attend the three- hour service.

The city police have agreed to deploy personnel to help secure the service. (09)