“MARMINGGU disini” invites Batak Christians to worship at Gereja Hkbp in Singapore. This church is a vibrant part of Singapore’s religious landscape. It holds a unique story of community and faith.
The story of Gereja Hkbp begins in 1938. Batak people in Singapore started a prayer fellowship. It was called “The Batak Bible Fellowship” in 1940. World War II interrupted their gatherings from 1942 to 1945. But their spirit remained strong.
In 1948, the fellowship officially became Huria Kristen Batak Protestan. It adopted a Lutheran character. The Singapore government recognized it as a “Society”. Gereja Hkbp continues to thrive.
Today, Gereja Hkbp worships at Tamil Methodist Church on 8 Short Street. About 130 people attend services weekly. The services alternate between Indonesian and Batak languages. However, the sermon is always in Indonesian.
A traffic accident sparked a profound act of kindness. A young Batak man died in Singapore. The Batak community searched for a church to conduct the burial. Tamil Methodist Church stepped in to help.
This act led the Tamil Methodist Church pastor to encourage the Batak community to worship at TMC. The Batak Christians then registered as part of Huria Kristen Batak Protestan. For 75 years, Gereja Hkbp has gratefully shared space with TMC.
Ephorus Robinson Butarbutar expressed deep gratitude to TMC. He thanked them on behalf of six million HKBP members. He acknowledged TMC’s kindness to HKBP for 75 years. He prayed for blessings on TMC and its members.
Services at Gereja Hkbp offer various activities. General worship occurs on Sundays at 1:00 PM in the Sanctuary. Children’s worship also takes place on Sundays at 1:00 PM. It is held in the Social Hall. Choir practice follows at 3:00 PM in the Social Hall. A monthly fellowship meets on the third Sunday at 4:00 PM. It rotates among members’ homes. Bible study for sailors happens on Saturdays at 6:00 PM. It is held at MES Pelaut Batak.
Several dedicated individuals lead Gereja Hkbp. The Spiritual Committee includes St. A. Manik, St. D.S. Tambunan, St. J.P. Hutagalung and St. R. Samosir. The Administration Committee is led by Ir. J. Sibuea. Nora Samosir serves as Secretary. Ny Sianturi is the Treasurer. M.T. Tambunan and Ny. A. Manik are members. Auditors are Ny.D.S. Tambunan and Ny. P. Manik.
Gereja Hkbp has a global presence. It has churches in the United States and Malaysia. The main office is in Pearaja near Tarutung. Although named Batak, the church welcomes all ethnicities.
The Batak Christian Protestant Church is a large organization. It has over four million members. It is the third largest religious body in Indonesia. Victor Tinambunan currently leads the church.
Gereja Hkbp’s journey from a small fellowship to a recognized church shows the strength of community. Its story intertwines with Tamil Methodist Church. It exemplifies faith and gratitude. Gereja Hkbp continues to serve and uplift its members.