Indonesians in flood-struck Sumatra hold Christmas mass
Many in the congregation are still sheltering at evacuation sites after the fatal disaster wreaked havoc on the island four weeks ago
At a church in Sumatra, dozens of worshippers sang hymns at a Christmas mass, gathered together for their first service since deadly floods swept the Indonesian island.
The Angkola Protestant Church, in the hard-hit South Tapanuli district, was festooned on Wednesday with balloons and simple Christmas decorations.
Outside, the street leading to the building was buried under mounds of debris and foliage.
Many in the congregation are still sheltering at evacuation sites after the disaster wreaked havoc on the island four weeks ago.
Church-goer Krismanto Nainggolan said this year’s Christmas service was “different”, even as he noted joy in the bittersweet moment.
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“The feelings are mixed. Every word of the pastor’s sermon made us want to cry,” he said after the Christmas mass.