On February 25 1962 a significant event unfolded. The Gereja Kristen Indonesia Kebayoran Baru officially opened its doors. This wasn’t just the birth of a church. It was the culmination of a journey. A journey that began in the 1950s. Members of the Gereformeerd Kerk Kwitang who lived in Kebayoran Baru sought a place of worship closer to home.
Initially services were held in the home of Khouw Jauw Lam. Later they moved to the SD PSKD building on Jalan Bulungan. The Reverend Liem Ik Tjiang played a pivotal role. He was the pastor of the Kwitang congregation. His dedication to pastoral care extended beyond church members. He reached out to neighbors in need. This compassionate approach fueled the congregation’s growth. Kebayoran Baru was a developing satellite city. The new housing developments allowed for a unique form of fellowship. Family services rotated between homes creating strong bonds.
From 1956 to 1958 home gatherings evolved into a Kebaktian Pos. This was a worshipping post affiliated with GKI Kwitang. It then became a branch congregation. A significant conversation took place between Reverend Irawan T Salim and Elder T B Simatupang. They were on their way to Cisarua to visit Reverend Isaac Siagian. Their conversation sparked an idea. They felt the Kebayoran Baru branch needed to become an independent congregation. The Jakarta Klasis Synod held in Purbalingga agreed. On February 25 1962 the Gereja Kristen Indonesia Kebayoran Baru officially became its own independent congregation.
Elder Radius Prawiro led the first congregation. They appointed Kho Kian Heng as their Gospel teacher in 1964. He was later ordained as a pastor. The Gereja Kristen Indonesia Kebayoran Baru continued to expand its reach. They opened more worshipping posts in various areas. Bintaro in 1974 Serpong in 1978 and many more followed. These posts eventually grew into their own independent congregations. This growth demonstrates God’s blessing on the Gereja Kristen Indonesia Kebayoran Baru’s ministry. It also highlights the church’s commitment to spreading its message. The Gereja Kristen Indonesia Kebayoran Baru has served as a beacon of faith for the Kebayoran Baru community. It continues to be a place where people from different backgrounds come together in worship. The church’s history is a testament to perseverance faith and community.