Despite facing the constant threat of violence and arrest for calling for greater autonomy and an end to rights abuses by Indonesian security forces, Papuans are sending out a message of hope and peace this Christmas by constructing nativity scenes.

Papuans do not get many opportunities to express to the world their desire for peace. Making elaborate nativity scenes, some of which are quite large, is one of the few ways they can do so, according to Anto Beroperai, 31, a Christian from Jayapura.

"These nativity scenes are more meaningful to us now than ever, as many people live in fear," he said. We start building them in early December by roadsides, in churches or on hills next to people's houses, Beroperai said.

The tradition began about three decades ago and it is not clear who started it. But it has become more and more popular, he said. Although the nativity scenes are expressions of peace, the have not deterred security forces from committing acts of violence.

Two years ago, three high school students were shot dead by the military, following an altercation when young people were singing and listening to Christmas music next to one nativity scene in Paniai, Jayapura.

Many people saw it as an act of intimidation and attack on their Christian and cultural beliefs, Beroperai said. "People are not afraid, and continue to make these scenes because we want the world to see that Papuans also love peace."

Ota Rumbekwan, coordinator of a Papuan youth group in Jayapura, said the nativity scene tradition has a positive effect on young people who would otherwise risk getting into trouble by drinking alcohol.

"Lots of people drink alcohol here. But when young people get involved in church activities, such as during Christmas time, they put their bad habits to one side," she said.

Nico Lokobal, a Catholic lay leader in Jayapura Diocese, said nativity scenes at many churches in remote areas, are built together by community members, young and old, men and women, and even by people from different religions. "It unites us as a community of faith, despite coming from different organizations, religions, and political groups," he said.

In some places, he said, nativity scenes get a more Papuan character when people put in images of Jesus, Mary and Joseph with dark, curly hair.

"It makes Christmas in Papua more alive," Lokobal said. "And more than that, it gives off a message of peace to all, amidst the political turmoil in Papua," he said.

Source: http://www.ucanews.com/news/papuan-nativity-scenes-send-out-messages-of-peace/77915