Indonesia is a Muslim-majority country that has six officially recognised religions: Islam, Roman Catholicism, Protestant Christianity, Buddhism, Hinduism and Confucianism. Last year, there was an encouraging step towards inclusivity for people who belong to other religious groups.
The Constitutional Court added a new category to identity cards, which allows people to register as non-specific believers. While there still isn’t a ‘no religion’ option, we can give thanks for this meaningful development. Let’s pray with fresh faith for systemic changes that allow everyone to practice a religion or belief of their choice.
Find out more at csw.org.uk/indonesia
Sunday 6 July
Religious minorities, including Christians, frequently face accusations and charges of blasphemy. Pray for the repeal of Indonesia’s oppressive blasphemy laws, that they would no longer be used as a weapon against religious or ethnic minorities.
Monday 7 July
A national regulation was introduced in 2022 which lifted the mandatory hijab rules in schools. However, several local decrees still require female students to wear the hijab in certain regions, particularly in West Sumatra and Aceh. Pray for collaborative action to address these policies, and that girls will not be bullied or pressured to comply.
Tuesday 8 July
Christians face obstacles to practising their faith in several ways, including through intimidation, violence and the obstruction of building places of worship from local communities and authorities. Ask God to remove obstacles today.
Wednesday 9 July
‘Let the morning bring me word of your unfailing love, for I have put my trust in you. Show me the way I should go, for to you I entrust my life.’ Read through Psalm 143:8 as you pray for Indonesia’s Christian communities who face discrimination and disruptions to their worship services.
Thursday 10 July
Pray today for the Thessalonika Church in Teluknaga. In March 2024, members of the church faced eviction and were prohibited from gathering for worship. Ask God to draw near, strengthen and protect them from further harassment.
Friday 11 July
Law enforcement agencies have frequently fallen short in their response to violent incidents. Pray that they would take violations of freedom of religion or belief seriously, and that the perpetrators of violence will be stopped.
Saturday 12 July
Lord of all, we trust in your unfailing love. We ask you to pave the way for tolerance and inclusivity and safety for people of all religions or beliefs in Indonesia. Amen.