'I pray that religious harmony will prevail'

'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