Gereja Katolik St. Bonaventura

Amidst the vibrant tapestry of Jakarta, stands Gereja Katolik St. Bonaventura. It’s a sanctuary of serenity, a beacon of faith in the bustling district of Pulo Mas. Gereja Katolik St. Bonaventura’s story begins in the mid-1960s. Picture Pulo Mas then, a landscape dominated by marshes and ponds, a scattering of homes connected by muddy paths. The Catholic community, barely ten families strong, relied on the Franciscan priests from Gereja Hati Kudus in Kramat. They journeyed far for mass, baptisms, and other sacraments. The need for a local place of worship grew with the community. In 1977, a committee formed to address this need, laying the groundwork for what would become Gereja Katolik St. Bonaventura. On August 20, 1977, the parish officially came into being, under the patronage of St. Bonaventure. The journey to the church’s construction wasn’t easy. The initial location proposals faced setbacks, with several changes enforced by the local government. Finally, a site was secured on Jalan Pacuan Kuda Raya. The cornerstone was laid on August 15, 1978, by Archbishop Leo Soekoto. Construction began in earnest on March 10, 1979. The church first opened its doors for worship on Christmas Eve, 1979. The formal blessing followed on April 20, 1980. The official inauguration by Jakarta Governor Tjokropranolo occurred on December 12, 1981. Today, Gereja Katolik St. Bonaventura stands as a testament to the community’s perseverance and faith. It serves as an oasis of spiritual nourishment. Daily and weekly masses are offered, providing opportunities for prayer and reflection. Beyond its walls, the church’s legacy continues to enrich the lives of the faithful in Pulo Mas and beyond.