Indonesia Court Sentences Christian Women To 3 Years In Prison

In a widely-followed case from Indonesia, Christian Today reports that three women who had been convicted of violating the Child Protection Act of 2002, which forbids "deception, lies or enticement" causing a child to convert to another religion, have been sentenced to 3 years in prison. Muslim children, with their parents' consent, were attending an education program sponsored by a Christian church. Charges were filed by the Indonesian Council of Muslim Clerics when it was reported that some of the children started to sing Christian praises at school and at home. During the trial, threats were made by Islamic extremists inside and outside the courtroom. One reportedly brought a coffin to bury the defendants if they were found innocent. The defendants plan an appeal.