Mathias Hariyadi

A seminar in Jakarta opens the door to a new presence of Catholics in the active life of the country. According to the prelates, it is becoming essential to prepare young people, especially students. Politics and government efforts also become a new means of "evangelisation".

Minister Gamawan Fauzi supports Islamist demonstrations for the ouster of Susan Jasmine Zulkifli. The Lieutenant-Governor's dry response: Indonesia is pluralist nation, Fauzi should learn the constitution. Behind the local battle, the spectre of a national dispute is arising between two different visions of the country.

The boat , carrying hundreds of refugees , was headed to Australia. Still uncertainty about the number of deaths. Jump in flow of migrants from Middle Eastern countries : many hundreds since March. Canberra’s ' hard-line'.

The Diocese of Purwokerto organised a seminar on the use of new media. Personal stories are important in the context of proclaiming the Gospel as young priests show their enthusiasm at the meeting.

The 43-year old business man set to buy majority stake in Inter Milan for 350 million euros. In the past he bought shares in American football and basketball teams . In 2012 he was head of the Indonesian delegation at the London Olympics .

After nine years, the authorities issued a building permit. Outside Islamist groups mount protests and issue threats. A priest says he was forced to cancel a second Mass yesterday because of the demonstrations.

An extremist group attacks a cemetery overnight. The traditional and widespread practice of the cult of the dead, unites Muslims, Christians and believers of other religions. The governor describes the attack as "madness" perpetrated by those who feed "hate." Moderate Muslims speak of "serious threat ."

Four valuables were stolen from the National Museum. They date back to the Indo- Buddhist kingdom that dominated between the 8th and the 11th century. The police no leads in investigations. The ministry launches an independent inquiry. Security stepped up in ports and airports in an attempt to prevent their being smuggled abroad.

Nearly 6 thousand inhabitants forced to flee their homes . Authorities evacuate villages within a radius of three kilometers from the volcano . Yesterday morning the main eruption shot ash and lava blocking the main airport in the area. Fears of new eruptions in the coming hours.

Next week, the capital will host a beauty pageant that "respects" Muslim customs and traditions. For the event, organisers consulted Islamic experts and scholars. Six Muslim nations will be represented. Controversy and threats still surround Miss World 2013 in Bali but for the government, "the show must go on."

The religious police arrest five for trying to convert Muslims in the area. In fact, they ensured education and remedial courses . Not even the head of the Office of Religious Affairs is sure of the charges. Islamic law in force in the province and in the past Protestant Christians have been imprisoned for similar cases.

In the world's most populous Muslim country, many approve and adhere to the pope's call for a day of prayer and fasting next Saturday. One activist praises the Church for encouraging Muslims to come out for peace. Semarang archbishop appeals "to the faithful of all religions."