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
The Bible is a firm foundation in an ever-changing mission field
The Bible is a firm foundation in an ever-changing mission field

There is a growing cultural moment of openness and curiosity with the spiritual realm, and Christianity in particular. 

What should Christians say about immigration? 
What should Christians say about immigration? 

Christians must reject the simplistic slogans offered by those on both sides of the current immigration debate.

Lords seek to prevent abortion up to birth becoming law
Lords seek to prevent abortion up to birth becoming law

Abortion up until the point of birth will effectively be legal in Britain if no changes are made.

Young Britons more hopeful than older generations about ending global poverty, survey finds
Young Britons more hopeful than older generations about ending global poverty, survey finds

Young people are more likely to believe that global poverty can be eradicated, but this optimism declines sharply with age, a new study by Compassion UK has found.