An Italian priest of the Oblates of Mary Immaculate, who died aged 83 in North Kalimantan, he dedicated almost 50 years to the local people, even taking the name Wan Abung. He used to say: “My mission is to cherish the history and the places of the people I serve, gathering the seeds of the Word already present and sowing further seeds of truth to contribute to human growth.”
A distinguished scholar of philosophy and a mentor to religious and lay leaders, he died in the Netherlands at the age of 87, having spent over 50 years serving the Church in Indonesia. Among his legacies is a foundation that cares for orphans in Jayapura.
Kuala Lumpur calls on the UN to review the peacekeeping mission, concerned for its 500 troops (Malbatt Battalion) on the ground. Meanwhile, patrols have been suspended. Jakarta calls for a thorough investigation into the deaths of three soldiers in March. A joint statement with 73 signatories was submitted to the Security Council.
In Indonesia Cardinal Suharyo said that a more sober lifestyle is a moral duty, even more than a response to the energy crisis. In the Philippines Cardinal David spoke about popular reaction that resulted in the mistreatment of an animal. It is right to criticise, but this case should teach how to respect every human life. For Sri Lanka’s Cardinal Ranjith, even in politics, “leadership is service,” not domination over others.
After decades of moving from place to place, the Tesalonika Ecumenical Christian Congregation in Banten province celebrated Good Friday in their own house of prayer. However, they still have to contend with the seals placed on the place of worship by local authorities who refuse to issue permits, partly due to hostility from local residents. Minority groups often face this kind of obstacle in Indonesia.
The epicentre was about 129 km off the coast of Bitung at a depth of 33 km. The main quake was followed by at least 29 aftershocks, the strongest reaching a magnitude of 5.5. A 69-year-old woman died in Manado. The roof of a church collapsed. Church authorities are assessing its safety for Holy Week celebrations.
