PGI Condemns Sealing of Church on Good Friday Service in Teluknaga Tangerang

JAKARTA - The Federation of Churches in Indonesia expressed deep concern and condemned the sealing of the place of worship of the congregation of the Oikoumene Federation of Christian People (POUK) Thessaloniki in Teluknaga, Tangerang, which occurred on Friday, April 3 after the Easter Friday service.

The Executive Secretary for Justice and Peace of the PGI, Etika Saragih, assessed that the incident hurt the feelings of Christians who were entering the Easter celebration series.

"This action is also considered to have injured the nation's commitment to freedom of religion and worship as guaranteed in the 1945 Constitution, especially Article 28E and Article 29," Etika said in his statement quoted by the PGI official website, Monday, April 6.

PGI stated that it understood the importance of compliance with laws and regulations, including those related to building permits. However, the enforcement of rules should not be at the expense of the basic rights of citizens, especially in situations that could potentially discriminate against minority groups.

In its statement, PGI condemned the sealing which was considered not to consider the constitutional rights of the people to worship, especially at the sacred religious momentum.

In addition, the PGI urged the government to guarantee the safety of all citizens in carrying out worship and ensure that no similar actions hinder the fundamental rights of the community.

PGI also asked state officials to remain independent and not subject to pressure from certain groups in carrying out their duties as protectors of all citizens without discrimination.

On the other hand, the organization encourages an inclusive and just dialogue to find long-term solutions that respect the rights of all parties.

PGI also invites all elements of society to refrain, prioritize tolerance, and maintain diversity as a national strength.

"Peace cannot be built on injustice. The state must be present as a guarantor of justice and a protector of religious freedom for all citizens," said Etika.