ASIA/INDONESIA - Celebration at the end of Ramadan, lived in peace and in interreligious respect

Jakarta (Agenzia Fides) - Eid-al-Fitr, the feast that marks the end of the holy month of Ramadan (the Islamic month of fasting), was celebrated in Indonesia "in a peaceful manner, in respect of differences and inter-religious harmony", says Fr. Ismartono Ignatius to Fides, an Indonesian Jesuit who has been engaged in Isalm-christian dialogue for decades. "First of all - notes Fr. Ismartono – head of Muhammadhya, one of the largest Islamic organizations in Indonesia, the faithful had the freedom to celebrate Eid in a one of the established three days, according to the calculations, (between 30 August and 1 September) and many appreciated the choice of respecting differences".
The Episcopal Conference of Indonesia, and the Communion of Protestant Churches sent a message of greetings to Indonesian Muslim leaders, submitting the words of Pope Benedict XVI, published by the Pontifical Council for Interreligious Dialogue. The message of the Indonesian Christian leaders said, among other things, that Eid also has a deeper meaning, "to restore primacy to the spirit, compared to materialism and hedonism" and "to improve relationships among believers". In addition, "acts of peace, respect and friendship characterized Eid in the different regions of the vast and pluralistic Indonesian archipelago" said the Jesuit.
In Jakarta, locals and faithful of Santa Maria Church made themselves available to the Muslims who came to celebrate Eid in the nearby Istiqlal mosque: who in turn do the same thing when the Christians celebrate Christmas.
In North Sulawesi, Christian residents of the province helped the Muslims in the preparations for the feast, held in mosques and open fields, and safeguarded the accomplishment, demonstrating a high degree of religious tolerance and the desire to build harmony .
In Moluccas, an area devastated in recent years by a violent conflict between Muslims and Christians, Christian leaders urged the faithful to share celebrations which have been quite peaceful.
In Jayapura, in Papua, dozens of young people from various Christian denominations watched over and provided policing, together with the police, so that the events and celebrations were held without incidents, and the gesture was much appreciated by the local Muslim leaders.
In Kupang, in East Nusa Tenggara province, thousands of young Muslims, Christians, Buddhists and Hindus took part in the parade organized to accommodate the Eid pilgrims, in an initiative with a multi-religious character, expression of popular joy, as well as faith. During the party, a dove was released as a sign of peace among believers of different religions in the area. (PA) (Agenzia Fides 01/09/2011)