“Syalom!” GKBJ Jemaat Samanhudi welcomes you. It is a beacon of faith in Jakarta. This church stands as a testament to community and devotion.
GKBJ Samanhudi is more than just a building. It is a living, breathing community. Here, faith intertwines with daily life. The church actively fosters spiritual growth. It strengthens bonds among its members.
Imagine back to the early 2000s. GKBJ Samanhudi faced challenges in obtaining construction permits from 2001 to 2003. Yet, the community’s spirit remained unbroken. Then, in 2003, a renewed vision emerged. Members of GKBJ Samanhudi sought to expand their reach.
The Majelis GKBJ Samanhudi appointed key figures. These were Pdt Rendy Alexander Chuang, Bp Steven Saputra, and Bp Gus E Chandra. Their mission was to negotiate with PT Wilhara Prima. They aimed to establish a new church location.
Negotiations proved successful. The Majelis and church leaders agreed to purchase four shophouses. These were located in Gading Bukit Indah. Renovation began transforming the space. Finally, in July 2006, the work was complete.
GKBJ Kelapa Gading was inaugurated on August 12, 2006. Bapak Dirjen Bimas Kristen, Pdt Dr Jason Lase, officiated the ceremony. The first service took place the next day. It marked a new chapter for the church community.
Since January 2007, GKBJ Kelapa Gading has held two services. One service is in Mandarin. The sermon is translated into Indonesian. The other service is in Indonesian. This accommodates the diverse congregation.
The congregation mainly consists of Chinese descent. Many are entrepreneurs, professionals and traders. Some parishioners come from Jakarta. Others travel from outside the city to worship.
GKBJ Kelapa Gading is young but mature in commitment. Its mission is clear. It strives to create true disciples of Christ. These disciples reach out, nurture and build up the community. They are sent out to spread the word.
GKBJ Jemaat Samanhudi remains committed. It actively promotes national unity. In 2018, it hosted a discussion. The discussion focused on Indonesia’s founding ideals. Speakers emphasized unity. They cautioned against division based on ethnicity or religion.
GKBJ Jemaat Samanhudi embodies the spirit of Bhinneka Tunggal Ika. This translates to “Unity in Diversity.” It stands as a reminder. Differences should not divide. Instead, they should strengthen the nation. The church encourages its members. They must embrace their roles as responsible citizens. They need to contribute to society.
As you stand here, consider the enduring spirit. The spirit of GKBJ Jemaat Samanhudi is alive. It is a community that perseveres. It promotes unity and fosters faith. May its story inspire you. Let it inspire you to build bridges. May it inspire you to embrace diversity. May it inspire you to live a life of purpose.