Jokowi Sends Christmas Greetings to Christians

JAKARTA, KOMPAS.com – Indonesia’s President Joko 'Jokowi' Widodo took to Twitter to extend congratulations to Christians celebrating Christmas on Friday, December 25. “Let peace, safety, and blessings be always in every single step we make,” said the President in the @jokowi Twitter handle on Friday morning.

Jokowi said that Christmas this year might look different from the previous years, which was filled with joy.

He said the Covid-19 pandemic has changed many things and has given people many lessons.
“Christmas this year might look different from the previous ones when the joy and year-end festivities filled the people’s lives in our country. The pandemic has changed many things and taught us many lessons,” Jokowi wrote.

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In his message, Jokowi also included an animated card illustrating people celebrating Christmas in their houses.

On the card it says “Merry Christmas” and it also mentioned “President Joko Widodo”.
Previously, newly-appointed Religious Affairs Minister Yaqut Cholil Qoumas reminded the Christians that Christmas should be held in a modest celebration due to the ongoing Covid-19 challenges.

“Observe Christmas in modest celebration and continue to share the love,” said Yaqut in a statement on Thursday, December 24.

Also read: Jakarta to Step Up Security in 1,600 Churches over Christmas

The Minister also paid a visit to GPIB Immanuel Church in the old city of Semarang in Central Java on Christmas Eve. He talked to the congregation after the service.

“I introduce myself as the new Minister of Religious Affairs who was appointed by President Jokowi. Although the appointment only took place two days ago, I can assure you that I am the Religious Affairs Minister for all religions [in Indonesia], not just one religion,” Yaqut told reporters after the visit.

(Writer: Ardito Ramadhan | Editor: Krisiandi)

Source: https://nasional.kompas.com/read/2020/12/25/09350881/ucapkan-selamat-natal-jokowi-pandemi-beri-banyak-pelajaran.