Open Doors Supports Families of Indonesian Schoolgirl Beheadings

Open Doors has visited the families and single survivor of a vicious attack in October 2005 in which radical Muslims on Sulawesi island in Indonesia beheaded three Christian schoolgirls.

A group of machete-wielding men ambushed Theresia Morangke, aged 15, Alfita Poliwo, 17, Yarni Sambue, 15 and Noviana Malewa, then 15, as they walked to their Christian school. The first three girls died instantly; Noviana received serious injuries to her face and neck but survived the attack.

The families of the three girls recently flew from Poso to Jakarta where they appeared in court to testify against the accused killers, Lilik Purnomo, Irwanto Irano and Hasanuddin, who like many Indonesians goes by only one name.

Open Doors' staff met the families during their stay in Jakarta and shared fellowship with them.

The parents of the girls have touched the hearts of many Christians after they publicly forgave their daughters' killers and even shook hands with them as a sign of their forgiveness, a move which brought praise from some and criticism from others.

The head of the National Commission on Violence Against Women, Kamala Chandrakirana, said in the Jakarta Post, "If there was to be any reconciliation, it should have taken place after the trial was completed. We're really worried that the reconciliation will disturb the legal process to find justice for the families of the victims."

The families maintain that they wish to reconcile with their daughters' killers.

The older brother of survivor Noviana, David Malewa, said, "It was hard for all of us to grant Hasanuddin's request to meet with us. But as believers, we must forgive those who have persecuted us."

He added, "By holding on to Jesus' teachings, we were able to forgive. We really hope this will mark the beginning of peace restoration in Poso."

The tragic murder of the girls has been such a painful and traumatic experience for their families but none have lost their faith in God.

Alfita's mother, a frail elderly lady, shared, "I have forgiven whoever did this. I prayed that they would realise what they did. I also asked God to forgive them."

She was deeply traumatised by the incident but had the courage to revisit the murder scene. She felt no bitterness towards God; "I don't have the courage to; He is sovereign over all lives," she said firmly.

The trial is ongoing. Hasanuddin was charged under the terrorism law and could face the death penalty if found guilty.