Forgiveness and reconciliation are the only way for Muslims and Christians in Indonesia to reclaim peace, according to John Graz, public affairs and religious liberty director for the Seventh-day Adventist world church. Graz made his comments in early March during a visit to Indonesia, where sectarian fighting in some provinces over the past three years has left more than 10,000 people dead, and thousands of homes and churches destroyed.

“The violence in Indonesia has been described by many people as a religious conflict,” says Graz. “But it is political factors, along with ethnic and economic rivalries, that have fueled this tragic clash.” Graz explains that the political instability in some regions of Indonesia over the past few years has allowed different groups to attempt to impose their ethnic, social, or religious agendas. “In some parts of the country, such as the Maluku Islands in Ambon, the violence of extremist Muslims has contributed to the radicalization of Christians,” says Graz. “And both sides have suffered.”

Graz, who is also secretary-general of the International Religious Liberty Association, met with religious liberty leaders in Jakarta, and talked with Christian believers. “Christians in Indonesia firmly oppose the introduction of Sharia, or Islamic law,” says Graz. “But they also express hope that by developing good relations with moderate Muslims, they can help build a lasting peace.”

The Adventist Church has not been immune to the violence in Indonesia; at least 15 Adventists have been among the thousands killed in the sectarian violence, and 12 Adventist church buildings have been destroyed. Church members in East Indonesia continue to struggle to provide for more than 1,000 refugees who have congregated near the church headquarters in Manado, Sulawesi Utara.