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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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