The soaring silhouette of Gereja Santo Matias Rasul Paroki Kosambi Baru pierces the Jakarta sky. Its modern design a stark contrast to the bustling city around it. This isn’t just any church. This is a testament to faith perseverance and community.
Gereja Santo Matias Rasul Paroki Kosambi Baru stands as a beacon in Duri Kosambi Cengkareng. Its history begins not with bricks and mortar but with a vision. Archbishop Leo Soekoto SJ saw a growing need in West Jakarta. The rapid population growth particularly in new housing areas demanded a new parish. The original plan to expand from Gereja Santo Thomas Rasul Bojong Indah faced many hurdles. Early efforts to find suitable land proved challenging. Despite setbacks and changes in leadership the dream persisted.
The establishment of the Gereja Santo Matias Rasul building committee in 1990 marked a turning point. Years of searching finally yielded a 13500 square meter plot in Perumahan Kosambi Baru. Securing the land involved navigating complex bureaucratic processes and fundraising. The first mass was held in 2001 at Sekolah Santo Leo II. Imagine 700 people gathered with hope in their hearts. A temporary structure a simple “bedeng” was used until the grand building could be completed. The groundbreaking ceremony took place in 2006. It was a significant milestone for a community that had waited patiently.
The architect Lily Sulistiawati Kastono designed a stunning structure. A modern masterpiece the church’s elliptical shape is striking. Twelve arched pillars and eight main columns support the building. The main building boasts two floors. The capacity? A remarkable 1800 people. The crucifix behind the altar a work of art by Agus Suwage is a breathtaking centerpiece. The design incorporates both natural and artificial lighting. The “Light Comes from Above” concept creates a captivating atmosphere shifting with the time of day.
Gereja Santo Matias Rasul Paroki Kosambi Baru is more than just a place of worship. It’s a vibrant community hub. It has a multipurpose hall a Garden of the Stations of the Cross the first of its kind in the Keuskupan Agung Jakarta. The church proudly serves a diverse congregation reflecting the rich tapestry of Indonesian culture. From its humble beginnings to its current glory Gereja Santo Matias Rasul Paroki Kosambi Baru stands as a symbol of enduring faith. A place where the community gathers prays and celebrates life.