“Imagine stones whispering secrets”. That is how I would describe Gereja Lbk Baja. Today, let’s uncover the story of this iconic church.
Gereja Lbk Baja started as a humble gathering. Catholic migrants from Flores arrived in Batam between 1956 and 1959. They brought their traditions and faith. They began praying together. This simple act of faith led to something remarkable.
In 1961, they built a simple chapel. They dedicated this Kapela Santa Maria to Saint Mary. It stood in Batu Ampar, a coastal area facing Singapore. The chapel was basic. It had wooden frames and woven bamboo walls. The floor was sand. Yet, it was a beacon of faith.
In 1963, a pivotal moment occurred. Father Rudolf Reicenbach, known as Pastor Rolf, visited. He was the parish priest of Tanjung Pinang. He celebrated Mass at Kapela Santa Maria. This was the first Mass ever held on Batam Island. It was a joyous occasion for the migrants.
However, challenges arose. In 1969, foreign companies arrived in Batam. The land where Kapela Santa Maria stood was needed. The chapel was demolished. The Catholic community lost its place of worship.
Help came from an unexpected source. Bapak Haji R. Muhammad, a Muslim, offered his land. He allowed them to build a chapel next to the Masjid Raya Sei Jodoh. Construction of Kapela Santa Maria Sei Jodoh began in 1974. The chapel expanded. Rooms were added for visiting priests and catechists.
In 1983, further changes occurred. The Otorita Batam developed Sei Jodoh into a commercial hub. The community relocated to Bukit Baloi. Kapela St. Maria Sei Jodoh had to move again. The Otorita Batam provided land on Bukit Baloi.
Bukit Baloi was rocky. The Catholic community worked hard. They cleared the land together. They broke rocks and built a permanent church. This church was named Gereja Santo Petrus. Petrus means “rock” in Latin. It was fitting for its location.
In 1990, Gereja Santo Petrus was officially established. It became the first parish on Batam Island. Over time, Batam’s industrial growth led to a growing Catholic population. Gereja Santo Petrus could no longer serve everyone.
The parish was divided. On June 1, 1995, Paroki Beato Damian was formed. On November 1, 2003, Paroki Maria Bunda Pembantu Abadi Tembesi was created. On April 8, 2008, Paroki Kerahiman Ilahi Tiban was established. On October 9, 2016, Paroki St. Hilarius was inaugurated.
Today, Gereja Lbk Baja stands as a testament. It reflects the faith and perseverance of its community. From a simple chapel to a thriving parish, its story is truly inspiring.