Jakarta (ANTARA) - Catholics in various regions across Indonesia are raising funds as an expression of solidarity and concern for fellow citizens affected by flooding in Sumatra during the Christmas celebrations.
Archbishop of Jakarta Cardinal Ignatius Suharyo said on Wednesday that the fundraising efforts were carried out in a coordinated manner through parishes and dioceses nationwide, involving Catholic communities across the country.
“Catholics across Indonesia are united in celebrating Christmas by collecting funds to the extent that we are able, throughout the country. All parishes, dioceses, and Catholic communities are working together well,” Cardinal Suharyo said after welcoming state officials at Jakarta Cathedral on Wednesday.
According to Cardinal Suharyo, all elements of the Catholic Church are cooperating closely to ensure that the collected aid can be promptly distributed to communities in need.
“We hope that the hardships faced by our brothers and sisters can be resolved soon, and that in time they may return to their normal lives,” he stated.
Cardinal Suharyo also expressed appreciation for the presence of government officials and leaders of the Interfaith Harmony Forum (Forum Kerukunan Umat Beragama/FKUB), who who attend each year to support the Christian community during various religious celebrations.
He added that Catholics are also praying for the nation’s leaders so they may carry out their responsibilities and duties to the best of their ability for the benefit of the people and the country.
“We are very pleased to be visited by our leaders and friends from the FKUB, who have become familiar faces here. Every year, they come to encourage and support us all to continue striving to be good citizens,” the Cardinal said.
A number of state officials, including the TNI commander, the National Police chief, the Coordinating Minister for Political and Security Affairs, and the Jakarta governor, also attended the event, greeted congregants and ensuring that the Christmas Eve Mass at Jakarta Cathedral was conducted in a solemn and orderly manner.
