Wednesday, December 27, 2006 at 1:01am
Muslims aid Xmas peace in Indonesia
Christmas celebrations unfolded peacefully across Indonesia largely due to the help of Muslim organizations despite the danger of attacks from Islamic terrorists. Many Muslims attended Christmas Mass in Jakarta Cathedral as well as a Protestant service at nearby Immanuel Church, including leaders of the Nahdlatul Ulama and the Muslim United Organization (MUO), two of the most influential Muslim organizations in the country.
MUO coordinator Andi Muhammad Soleh said more than 1,500 MUO members patrolled Christian places of worship to prevent attacks. The governor of Jakartam Sutiyoso spent Christmas night monitoring the situation in the capital: "I am happy everything went on calmly and in peace," he said. Police Superintendent Ketut Untung Yoga Ana said "more than 20,000 officers were on alert to monitor celebrations for Christmas, the Idul Haj and the New Year."
In Java, thousands of Catholics attended mass in the church of the Blessed Virgin Mother of Christ in Wedi Parishd espite heavy rains. In Yogyakarta, eastern Java, throngs attended an open-air mass at Tritis shrine which was broadcast live on TV.
MUO coordinator Andi Muhammad Soleh said more than 1,500 MUO members patrolled Christian places of worship to prevent attacks. The governor of Jakartam Sutiyoso spent Christmas night monitoring the situation in the capital: "I am happy everything went on calmly and in peace," he said. Police Superintendent Ketut Untung Yoga Ana said "more than 20,000 officers were on alert to monitor celebrations for Christmas, the Idul Haj and the New Year."
In Java, thousands of Catholics attended mass in the church of the Blessed Virgin Mother of Christ in Wedi Parishd espite heavy rains. In Yogyakarta, eastern Java, throngs attended an open-air mass at Tritis shrine which was broadcast live on TV.