JAKARTA - President Joko Widodo (Jokowi) on Sunday toured a number of churches in Bogor City, West Java, to directly observe Christmas Day celebrations and greet Christians who perform worship.
According to information received by Antara in Jakarta, Sunday, December 25, it was stated that the Protestant Church in western Indonesia (GPIB) of the Zebaut Bogor congregation was the first church visited by the President in a series of activities.
The President arrived at around 9.10 WIB accompanied by Bogor Mayor Bima Arya and immediately greeted the church congregation.
"I see how happy, how very happy you are, ladies and gentlemen, in welcoming Christmas this year," said Jokowi.
The President expressed his hope that all Christians can celebrate Christmas peacefully and happily.
"And also all of us continue to maintain brotherhood, strengthen brotherhood, strengthen harmony between us," he added.
The President continued his series of activities by reviewing Christmas worship at the Bogor Cathedral Church.
"Let's continue to strengthen our brotherhood, strengthen our harmony for the revival of the Unitary State of the Republic of Indonesia. Merry Christmas, may God bless us all," said the President in front of the congregation of the Bogor Cathedral Church.
President Jokowi's visit to Christmas worship was appreciated by the Head of the Bogor Cathedral Church, Romo Paul Haruno, who called it a special gift for Christians.
"It's really a surprise and a great gift, which is really a surprise, because without any prior notification. Mr. President Jokowi, who was accompanied by Mr. Mayor of Bima Arya, is something that adds to the joy of this year's Christmas," Paulus said in a separate statement.
He also hopes that President Jokowi's presence in this year's Christmas service in Bogor City can increase the spirit of religious tolerance in Indonesia.
"Hopefully an atmosphere full of tolerance, all are given the right to exercise their freedom in faith, this religion will continue to be raised in this beloved country," said Father Paul.
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