“How did this building become a cornerstone for a global network?” That is what many people ask when standing before the Gedung Pertemuan Advent. The Gedung Pertemuan Advent stands as more than just a building. It is a testament to faith, community, and service in the heart of Jakarta.
Let’s explore the story of this significant place. The Gedung Pertemuan Advent is located on Jl. M.T. Haryono. It serves as the head office for ADRA Indonesia. ADRA is the Adventist Development and Relief Agency. ADRA Indonesia plays a crucial role in humanitarian work. It coordinates projects across the Indonesian archipelago.
ADRA Indonesia’s journey began in 1981. It started with a Mother & Child Health Project in Mahakam, South Kalimantan. Soon, seven similar projects followed. These projects spanned East Java, East Nusa Tenggara, Irian Jaya now Papua and North Sulawesi. ADRA Indonesia also undertook 13 Water Supply Projects. They provided bridges and built orphanages. The organization also responded to emergencies and disasters.
Registered locally in 1991, ADRA Indonesia’s impact grew. By the 1990s, they focused on community development. Their programs centered on women and children. These initiatives covered Mother & Child Health, Agriculture, and Micro Credit Projects. They also addressed HIV/AIDS prevention and offered agriculture consultation. Sanitation, education, and disaster response remained vital parts of their work.
The Gedung Pertemuan Advent also played a vital role in the English-speaking Adventist community. In 1987, the Jakarta English speaking SDA Church JISDAC found its home here. The church initially gathered in a room at the balcony. This space was also used as an English classroom by AECS. AECS is the Adventist English Language School. With permission, the English Speaking Sabbath School class moved here. Every Sabbath, they met for Sabbath School and Divine Worship.
The English branch grew and became well-established. By October 25, 1988, it became the 54th organized church in Jakarta. It was also the first English-speaking SDA church in West and East Indonesia Unions. The church aimed to serve English-speaking members. It sought to strengthen their faith. It also helped to evangelize students and reach out to foreigners in Jakarta.
The Gedung Pertemuan Advent is more than a physical structure. It is a hub for faith-based initiatives. It is a center for community service. It continues to support ADRA Indonesia’s mission. The building stands as a symbol of hope. It shows a commitment to improving lives across Indonesia.