Jakarta: Thousands of Muslims and Catholics unite to march against terror

Muslims and Catholics united in Jakarta on Sunday to march through Indonesia's capital after suicide attacks killed seven and wounded 26 last week.

Catholics joined thousands from the largest Muslim organisations in Indonesia to "oppose all forms of violence that goes against man".

"We express deep condolences to the victims and condemn all forms of violence and terrorism. We pray and we work for the unity of Indonesia," said Father Alexius Andang Binawan, Vicar General of the Archdiocese of Jakarta, according to ICN.

Nahdlatul Ulama, Indonesia's largest Muslim group, was joined by 13 other Islamic organisations and the Catholic Bishops' Conference of Indonesia.

Several thousand demonstrators gathered in the main square in Indonesia's capital which is overlooked by both the Catholic cathedral and the Grand Mosque.

"We are shocked but life in the capital continues normally," said Binawan, according to Fides.

"As the government and public officials say, we have also told the faithful not to be overcome by the fear of terrorism. Terrorists want visibility and demonstrate the supposed weakness of the government. Indonesian people will respond in a united manner, with firmness and dignity, without fear".

"Many religious leaders have condemned terrorism, stressing that it has nothing to do with religion and expresses strong hopes for unity," he added, speaking ahead of the march.

"We will be in the street with Muslims and Christians and believers of all faiths to reaffirm the national motto 'unity in diversity', and to express our unity in opposing to all forms of violence that goes against man. As Christians we are next to all other citizens and will continue to pray for the victims and for a prosperous and peaceful future of our nation".

related articles
Indonesia: Government crackdown forces church to hold Christmas celebrations outside
Indonesia: Government crackdown forces church to hold Christmas celebrations outside

Indonesia: Government crackdown forces church to hold Christmas celebrations outside

Jakarta attacks: Suicide bombers and gunmen kill at least six in Indonesian capital
Jakarta attacks: Suicide bombers and gunmen kill at least six in Indonesian capital

Jakarta attacks: Suicide bombers and gunmen kill at least six in Indonesian capital

ISIS claim responsibility for Jakarta bombing

ISIS claim responsibility for Jakarta bombing

Indonesia has named mastermind of Jakarta attack

Indonesia has named mastermind of Jakarta attack

News
Indian Christians denounces crackdown on property
Indian Christians denounces crackdown on property

There has been an alleged crackdown on Christian buildings providing services for the most vulnerable in society.

Belgian broadcaster apologises over video showing destruction of Christian statues
Belgian broadcaster apologises over video showing destruction of Christian statues

A Belgian radio station has apologised after a video segment showing presenters smashing statues of Jesus and the Virgin Mary drew criticism and sparked questions about respect for Christian beliefs.

Boko Haram kills 10 Christians in northeast Nigeria
Boko Haram kills 10 Christians in northeast Nigeria

Members of Islamic extremist group Boko Haram on Monday killed at least 10 Christians in an attack on a village in Borno state, Nigeria, sources said.

King Charles faces criticism for declining to issue Easter message
King Charles faces criticism for declining to issue Easter message

King Charles' decision not to release an Easter message this year has been criticised by some Christians.