Mathias Hariyadi

Rosnida Sari, a Muslim teacher, asked a priest to tell her students the story of his church's construction. This was followed by a press campaign fomented by Islamic fundamentalists, who "recommended" her to leave. In response, civil society groups have come out in support of the woman, who "teaches pluralism and tolerance."

Indonesia's National Search and Rescue Agency found two large parts of the aircraft and an oil spill. Bodies continue to be recovered. The government suspends the airline's permit to fly between Surabaya and Singapore.

New Year celebrations do not coincide with the Islamic calendar and are "contrary to Muslim culture". The prohibition to celebrate was issued by the mayor of Banda Aceh, and immediately supported by local authorities. Citizens of other religions "must show respect".

For the past few years, the Christian festivity has become an excuse for violence and targeted attacks. Among Muslims, moderates defend Christmas whilst fundamentalists view it as "haram", sinful. Whilst Jakarta Governor sets up a tree, President Jokowi travels to Papua for the celebration. Meanwhile, members of the Yasmin Church prepare to celebrate the event outdoor.

Hundreds of faithful flocked to the Holy Family Parish Church in Cibinong. Mgr Filipazzi stressed that the priesthood is a service that requires obedience and holiness. Priestly vestments should not feed "personal ambitions" but encourage to "preach the Gospel and bring God to the people."

Dozens of Islamic extremists of the Sukaharjo District attacked three shops in Solo. The group has forced retailers not to allow employees to wear Christmas symbols or to promote celebrations. The Mayor of Banda Aceh issued a public announcement prohibiting Muslims to attend Christian events.

The last toll estimates 57 victims; four days from the landslide, rescue teams are still searching for survivors. The Parish of St. Anthony in Banjarnegara has set up two emergency centers. Caritas in Purwokerto has taken action sending dozens of volunteers. Help appreciated by Muslim NGOs.

Meidyatama Suryodiningrat is at the center of an investigation and will be heard next week. The cartoon, published in Indonesia last July, allegedly offends the religious sensibility of Muslims. The journalist criticized by extremist movements and moderate Muslim groups.

The Jombang Institute is linked to the Nahdlatul Ulama, the most important moderate Muslim movement. Young people could "choose" between expulsion, caning being tied to a tree for three days. The Ministry for Religious Affairs expresses concern and calls for "non-violent methods".

The aim of a series of impromptu raids by Tadzkiiratul Ummah conducted by on-site spraying of colored paint is to "moralize" the inhabitants of the Indonesian province which is subject to sharia law. Those wearing jeans or tight clothes are the targets. The leader of the movement accuses authorities: "they do not apply Islamic law". Moderate Muslim movements condemn the action.

The Social Communications Office sponsors a meeting attended by at least 200 faithful. Strengthening community ties and promoting participation in the life of the Church are among the objectives. Priest in Jakarta says that magazines are essential in connecting the faithful.

President Jokowi orders the Navy to "shoot and sink" illegal fishing boats, after taking crews into custody. His goal is to defend the local fishing industry and stop the loss of billions of dollars in revenue. Thailand, Philippines, Vietnam, and Malaysia protest.