Gereja Santo Matius

In 1977, a small chapel arose within the Arhanud Bintaro Complex. This humble beginning marked the first seed of what would become Gereja Santo Matius Penginjil. Imagine the scene: military personnel and local families gathering for prayer, their voices echoing in the simple structure. This chapel served as a vital spiritual hub, easing the distance between Bintaro residents and Gereja Santo Yohanes Penginjil in Blok B. Fast forward to 1983, a pivotal year for the burgeoning Catholic community. Bishop Leo Soekoto, S.J., entrusted Father Otello Pancani with a mission: to establish a new parish in Bintaro. This marked the official birth of Paroki Bintaro, under the patronage of St. Matthew the Evangelist. Gereja Santo Matius Penginjil, named after the apostle and gospel writer, became the heart of this new parish. As the community thrived, the small chapel could no longer contain its spirit. On September 16, 1990, a new chapter began with the laying of the cornerstone for a grander church. Four years later, the new Gereja Santo Matius Penginjil opened its doors, its octagonal shape a symbolic nod to both Moses’ tabernacle and the eighth day of Jesus’ resurrection. Picture the octagonal structure, its folded roof reaching towards the sky, perched atop a hill in Pondok Karya. Inside, a magnificent statue by Amrisal Selayan depicts the Resurrection, a powerful symbol of hope and faith. The church’s design isn’t merely aesthetic; it’s deeply symbolic. The octagonal form represents the eighth day of Jesus’ resurrection, a powerful reminder of new beginnings and eternal life. The folded roof, reminiscent of a tent, evokes the journey of the Israelites led by Moses, symbolizing the spiritual journey of the faithful. Gereja Santo Matius Penginjil isn’t just a building; it’s a testament to the growth and devotion of the Bintaro Catholic community. It’s a place where daily and weekly masses fill the air with song and prayer, where the octagonal walls embrace the faithful, and where the spirit of St. Matthew continues to inspire. In 2024, the church’s story continued with the inauguration of the Gedung Karya Pastoral (Pastoral Work Building), a testament to its ongoing commitment to serving the community. Even today, the vibrant musical tradition, initiated by Father Pancani, continues to resonate within the church walls. Imagine the harmonious voices of the 85 choirs, a testament to the community’s active participation in the liturgy. Gereja Santo Matius Penginjil stands not only as a place of worship, but as a symbol of unity, growth, and enduring faith in the heart of Bintaro.