Mathias Hariyadi

For the past decade, September in Indonesia has been dedicated to deepening the understanding of the sacred text. Priests and religious have promoted reflections on the liturgy, using the web and social networks. For an Indonesian priest, the response of the faithful has been "amazing."

The decision by the outgoing provincial assembly would impose Islamic law on Christians and other minorities, such as the obligation for women to wear the veil and the ban on consuming alcoholic beverages. Opponents appeal to the central government to block the new legislation for violating the constitution and Pancasila.

Indonesia's outgoing president temporarily vetoes controversial bill approved by parliament last week. President-elect Widodo, who has already criticised the law, will now have to solve the controversy with his own means. Some political groups want to keep in check democracy.

A coup for the outgoing assembly, a few days ahead of its dissolution. After 10 hours of discussions, 226 deputies voted in favor of the law proposed by the Ministry of Interior. Now local authorities will be elected by local parliaments (and parties). Incoming President Widodo says it is a "huge step backward" for democracy in the country.

As the current legislature comes to an end, provincial lawmakers have little time to approve a law that would apply Islamic law to both "Muslims and non-Muslims." Indonesia's Home Affairs minister says he is prepared to challenge the law if it violates national legislation or human rights.

The Sanata Dharma (Usd) psychology department was to hold a meeting on the theme: "LGBTI: We are different, we are unique and we are One". The local branch of the Islamic Society Forum forced it to be cancelled because it "dishonors Islam." Islamic leader claims "deviant" sexual behavior is a "contagious virus".

The outgoing leader, one month ahead of the handover, promotes an all-out struggle against extremist cells and movements. Increased controls in passports and visas, to limit enrollments in the Islamic State. More attention to sensitive areas and prisons. International pressure behind the change of course.

Indonesian extremists were also arrested in the operation; according to the authorities they may be active in the formation of local Islamist cells. Anti-terrorism squad say they were trying to contact Santoso, the most wanted man in the country. At least 66 Indonesian citizens are active in the jihad in the Middle East.

2014 Koptari national conference was held Malino. The association brings together Indonesian clergy and religious. Goal to become "witnesses" of the mystical body of Christ and prophets in this modern era. The Pope seen as a positive model of priesthood.

With Bill 61/2014, the Health Ministry plans to legalise abortion in certain cases. After months of discussion, the Conference of Bishops speaks out. For the prelates, any act against life has no "moral legitimacy". In cases of sexual violence, they quote John Paul II.

Jero Wacik, a senior Democratic Party official is under investigation for abuse of power and corruption in the management of grants and contracts. The KPK say the politician used his position for personal gain. His resignation expected before the start of next term.

The theme of the 19th edition of the meeting is "Enhancing unity through solidarity." The event was attended by at least 80 people, including students and teachers. Local priests also present. Lectures and seminars accompanied by prayer and reflection. A Catholic University initiative that reinforces "cooperation and mutual relations."