KBRN, Jakarta: The Christmas celebration of the Indonesian community in Japan last weekend was not only a moment of worship and festivity but also an expression of solidarity. Amid cultural performances and shared meals, special prayers were offered for victims of recent disasters in Sumatra, underscoring the diaspora’s commitment to compassion and unity across communities.

Chargé d’Affaires ad interim of the Indonesian Embassy in Tokyo, Maria Renata Hutagalung, emphasized that support and prayers for those affected in Indonesia were an integral part of this year’s celebration. 

“Extending prayers and support to our brothers and sisters in Sumatra reflects the care and social sensitivity of Indonesians celebrating Christmas in Japan,” she said in a press release received in Jakarta on Monday, December 29, 2025, as quoted by Antara.

Maria stressed that Christmas should be seen not only as a religious occasion but also as a space to strengthen bonds, share love, and channel empathy to those enduring hardship. She further encouraged Indonesians in Japan to nurture fraternity through mutual assistance and moral support in daily life. 

“Supporting and uplifting one another is the key to ensuring that the joy of Christmas is felt beyond a single celebration, but every day,” she added.

The Christmas service, organized by the Embassy together with the Indonesian Christian Community in Japan (KMKI), drew around 200 Catholic and Protestant worshippers, including KMKI Chair Robert Dwiputra. The liturgy was led by Father Wifridus Ngalla CICM of Matsubara Catholic Parish, assisted by Father Galuh Arjanta, in a solemn yet warm atmosphere.

This year’s theme, set by the Communion of Churches in Indonesia (PGI) and the Indonesian Bishops’ Conference (KWI), was “God is Present to Save the Family.” In his message, Father Wifridus highlighted the family as the primary space for proclaiming salvation, where values of love, care, and God’s presence are lived out. 

He also urged the congregation to reflect on Indonesia’s recent natural disasters as reminders of the importance of protecting God’s creation. “To our brothers and sisters in Sumatra affected by disaster, may brighter days soon come,” he said.

The celebration was enlivened by cultural performances, including Balinese dance, an angklung collaboration between Indonesians and Japanese, and renditions of spiritual and national songs. Traditional Indonesian dishes such as tahu isi, lemper, lapis legit, and chocolate fried bananas added warmth and a sense of togetherness.

The event concluded with a joint prayer led by Pastor Henry Mimbar from the Indonesian Interdenominational Church (GIII) Tokyo. ***