They came on a Sunday morning, knocked down the Reverend Luspida Simanjuntak and stabbed the elder Hasian Sihombing: This is only one example of attacks against the congregation of Pondok Timur in West Java, Indonesia.

Islamistic grous attack Christians

Until recently Indonesia was well known for the religions' tolerance towards each other. But now violence is escalating. Islamistic grous calling themselves "Keepers of Islam" harass believers of other religions, even muslim denominations, which they do not accept. There have been even murders. The Indonesian Church Council reports about more than 600 attacks on churches since 1998.

Congregations act for peace

Christian congregations have taken concrete action against the violence:

• Caring for the victims: Congregation, whose churches haven been closed illegaly, need legal advice. Victims of violence need medical help. Donations are very much needed for that.
• Peace building measures: Congregations invite muslims and people of other faiths to learn more about each other.

With your donation these actions could become signal examples for the peace.