Gereja Toraja Jemaat Depok

Tucked away on Jalan Pemuda, beside the GBIP Immanuel Depok, sits Gereja Toraja Jemaat Depok. This church isn’t just a building. It’s a testament to the enduring faith of the Torajan community in Depok. Gereja Toraja Jemaat Depok celebrated its 23rd anniversary in May 2023. The church, nestled in Depok Lama, a region historically rich with Christian churches, stands as a symbol of community and resilience. The congregation, initially just 12 families in 2000, has blossomed to 240 families, nearly 899 people. The journey wasn’t always easy. The construction of Gereja Toraja Jemaat Depok, spanning from 2000 to 2006, faced obstacles, particularly with building permits. It was during President Gus Dur’s term that these hurdles were cleared, paving the way for the church’s completion. The church’s story begins with the IKAT (Ikatan Keluarga Toraja) Depok, a fellowship that held services in homes across Depok. It wasn’t exclusive to Christians; Muslims, people of other ethnicities, and different denominations were welcomed. This reflected the Torajan spirit of inclusivity and a shared yearning for a dedicated space for worship. The current church building, approximately 400 square meters, shares its 1000 square meter land with a pastori, Sunday school rooms, and a Torajan dormitory. Recognizing the limited parking space, Gereja Toraja Jemaat Depok partnered with the Äl Haraki Islamic school. They share their grounds, fostering a beautiful example of interfaith cooperation. Gereja Toraja Jemaat Depok actively participates in PGIS (Persekutuan Gereja-Gereja Indonesia Setempat) under PGI (Persekutuan Gereja-Gereja di Indonesia) and engages in local interfaith initiatives. The church extends its hand to the wider community through social programs like distributing necessities during Easter and organizing blood drives. Gereja Toraja Jemaat Depok serves not only local residents but also people from Bogor, Sawangan, Mekarjaya, Citayam, and other surrounding areas. It is a beacon of faith, extending its warmth and support to all.