Christian Communication Network, November 28, 2005
Wrongly Accused Indonesian Sunday School Teachers Lose
Appeal
Christian Freedom International Urges Immediate Release
To: National & International Desks
Contact: Vickie Koth, Christian Freedom International, 540-636-8907
INDRAMAYU, Indonesia, Nov. 28 /Christian Wire Service/ -- Christian Freedom
International urges the immediate release of Dr. Rebekka Zakaria, Eti Pangesti and
Ratna Bangun. The women are currently serving a three year prison sentence in the
Indramayu district of West Java, having been wrongly convicted of "attempting to
coerce children to change their religion" under the Indonesian "Child Protection Act."
A local Islamic group brought charges against the three for violating the "Child
Protection Act."
On November 22, 2005, the three Sunday school teachers lost an important appeal to
have their sentences reduced or overturned by a higher court. They have one appeal
left.
A local pastor who visits the three women weekly told Christian Freedom
International, "I regret to inform you, after the second phase court leve! l--in
Indonesia's law process system, we have a three phase law court level--the second
court judge agreed with the decision of the first court judge. This means Dr. Rebekka,
Etty, and Ratna face a punishment of three years in prison."
The pastor said, "That's why we still need support from all of our brothers and sisters
to continue with the legal process until the highest level--the third level is
complete--the last action for our law process system."
The pastor thanked Christian Freedom International and other organizations for
publicizing the case. "Brothers and sisters, thanks so much for sending information
about Dr. Rebekka, Etty and Ratna case to all over the world," said the unnamed
pastor.
The pastor further urged concerned people to continue writing to the imprisoned
Sunday school teachers. "They received letters from our brother/sister, who
encourage them with the words and prayer support, sympathies and also spiritual
warfare prayer. They really appreciated it, and believe that our God in Christ will bless
you all!"
For information on how to write to Rebekka, Eti, and Ratna, (they request that letters
not be sent directly to the prison) or help them with financial support please contact
Christian Freedom International.
Christian Freedom International president Jim Jacobson recently visited the three
women in the Indramayu prison.
Photographs of the prison and Rebekka, Eti, and Ratna are available upon request.
Christian Freedom International (CFI) is an interdenominational human rights
organization for religious liberty. For more information or interviews, contact Christian
Freedom International at 540-636-8907 or visit online at www.christianfreedom.org.
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