Four Churches Near Jakarta Attacked by Mobs

Mobs armed with sticks attacked four churches on the southwestern outskirts of the Indonesian capital of Jakarta on Sunday, June 6, injuring a pastor and damaging the buildings and furnishings.

The coordinated attacks took place during morning services. The mobs burst into the buildings, damaging pews and windows. One pastor was punched in the head, but did not suffer serious injuries.

According to media reports, the attacks came because the churches were established without the town's permission. Because of difficulties in gaining approval to start new churches, Indonesian believer are frequently compelled to do so without permission, gathering in meeting halls, shopping malls, or business areas.

Pray that those involved in these attacks will see the trust that can come through faith in Jesus Christ. Pray for the continued ministry of the Church in Indonesia.

For more information on the challenges facing Christians in Indonesia, click here.

  • Country Information

    Population
    279,476,346 (2023 est.)

    Ethnicity (%)
    Javanese (40.1), Sundanese (15.5), Malay (3.7), Balak (3.6), Madurese (3), Betawi (2.9), Minangkabau (2.7), Buginese (2.7), Bantenese (2), Other (23.8)

    Religion (%)
    Muslim (87.2), Christian (9.9), Hindu (1.7), Other (0.9), Unspecified (0.4)

    Leader
    President Joko Widodo (2014)

    Government type
    Presidential republic

    Legal system
    Civil law system based on the Roman-Dutch model and influenced by customary law

    Sources: CIA World Factbook.

  • Pray for Indonesia

    Pray for the continued growth of the church in Indonesia, despite the intense opposition and persecution that has taken place. May the destructive plans of the enemy to eradicate Christianity be frustrated and nullified.

    Pray that whatever is intended for evil, God will turn around for good – causing such hatred and violence to not only discredit extremism, but to also compel many to seek salvation in Christ... including the perpetrators of persecution.

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