'I pray that religious harmony will prevail'

Members of some Muslim organizations have helped guard churches in the capital and surrounding towns during Christmas. The Jakarta Post interviewed two residents to find out their views on religious tolerance.

Tasha, 25, is an employee of a property company in Jakarta. She lives with her family in Jembatan Tiga, West Jakarta.

I am glad there have been no terror attacks during the Christmas celebrations so far. Many of us are still very afraid to go to church to celebrate Christmas. I hope these secure conditions will last.

Because of the continued attacks on innocent people in Indonesia, I prayed during the holy night and at the service that the spirit of Christmas would bring peace to the country. I also prayed that religious harmony and tolerance would spread.

I think that is the most important hope for me this year as we can do nothing if we are always in fear.

I believe that most Indonesians -- Muslims and Christian alike -- want peace and despise violent ways to resolve conflicts. I hope that this majority will take an active role to promote peace and not be provoked by radical groups.

Manan Abdurahman, 45, is a security guard for a factory in Pulogadung, East Jakarta. He lives with his wife and children in Kampung Rambutan, also in East Jakarta.

I work for a ethnic Chinese Christian businessman. So far, I have had no problem working for him as he respects me and appreciates what I have done. I even guard the church where he attends Christmas services.

The majority of Muslims in Indonesia come from lower-income families, if they don't live in poverty. What we want is dignity as Indonesians and as human beings. If others respect and appreciate us, I am sure we will also respect them.

From what I observe, most Christians come from wealthy families. I could be wrong but I think all my bosses have been Christians. I hope that the spirit of Christmas will open up these rich Christians' hearts -- ensuring they respect and appreciate their countrymen, especially poor Muslims.

--The Jakarta Post