Remarks of President of the Republic of Indonesia at 2021 National Christmas Celebration, Bogor Presidential Palace, West Java Province, 27 December 2021

May peace be upon us all,

Shalom.

Distinguished Chairperson of the Indonesian Communion of Churches (PGI) Gomar Gultom,

Distinguished Chairperson of Bishop Council of Indonesia (KWI) Ignatius Cardinal Suharyo Hardjoatmodjo,

Distinguished Head of Committee of the 2021 National Christmas Celebration,

Distinguished Bishops, Pastors, Romo (Father), Priests, Head of Synods, Members of Church, and all Christians from all corners of the country,

Distinguished Ladies and Gentlemen.

This year is the second Christmas celebrated in simplicity, without crowd and festive gatherings but still with the joy and solemnity of the celebrations. Allow me to deliver my appreciation to all Christians for strictly following the health protocols during Christmas celebration and in maintaining the improving trend of COVID-19 development to keep positive cases under control and to immediately beat the pandemic.

Ladies and Gentlemen,

For almost two years, we have been facing tough challenges that test our resilience as believers. In addition to the COVID-19 pandemic, we were also stricken with grief at natural disasters that hit some regions. Nevertheless, I hope those challenges can strengthen brotherhood and resilience among all of us.

To that end, I remind the public wherever they are to continue spreading kindness, enhancing solidarity and cooperation, and helping others in humanitarian efforts throughout Indonesia. We must to raise public awareness to develop the spirit of humanity and brotherhood to act and help others.

Distinguished Christians,

Soon, we will enter the new year of 2022 that must be ushered in with a new spirit, noble values, and compassion. Tomorrow must be better than today if we enhance optimism, strengthen our efforts, work and pray harder for self-development and contribution to the greatest benefits of the community, as well as to the state and nation.

Our road to the future will not always be smooth. Sometimes, we have to face never-ending challenges. Nevertheless, we will surmount them with a strong spirit and unity.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year 2022!

I hope we can always strengthen our brotherhood as citizens and we can realize an Advanced Indonesia that we are aiming for.

God bless us.

(RAS/EP)