GKJ Nehemia

Why did a group of Javanese Christian families gather in Tangerang in 1980? Their shared passion for music and faith ignited a spark that would eventually become GKJ Nehemia. Picture this: October 1980. A small choir, the Javanese Christian Family Choir, comes together in Tangerang. They fill the air with hymns, preparing for the upcoming Christmas celebrations. Their voices echoed not just in Tangerang but also in nearby companies and schools. The choir even journeyed to Jakarta, contributing their music to Sunday services at GKJ Kebayoran, which at the time shared space with GKI Panglima Polim in South Jakarta. The choir members felt a strong pull to foster their fellowship and strengthen their connection with God. This led them to form the Paguyuban Warga Kristen Jawi di Tangerang. Their first family service took place on January 9, 1981, in a home on Jl Cikokol, led by Reverend Soetarman from GKJ Kebayoran. These gatherings continued every Friday evening, rotating among the homes of the paguyuban members. As the community grew, so did their desire for a more structured church life. They formally requested guidance from both GKJ Jakarta and GKJ Kebayoran in February 1981. They also sought permission to use the BK3 Tangerang building for their services. Their persistence paid off. On August 9, 1981, with 22 adult members, GKJ Pepanthan Tangerang, under the guidance of GKJ Kebayoran, was officially established. Initially, services moved between homes before finding a more permanent location. Through the dedication of its members, a plot of land was purchased, and a small, modest church building arose amidst rice paddies on a quiet lane, Gang Sukasari. This building was completed on June 17, 1984. With Tangerang’s growth, the church’s location on what is now Jl. Jenderal Sudirman No. 50 became increasingly strategic. The congregation’s dream of independence became a reality on August 29, 1997. GKJ Nehemia Pepanthan Tangerang officially became GKJ Tangerang. The dedication service was led by Reverend Dr. Soetarman and Reverend Samuel Bambang Haryanto. The church boasted about 250 families at the time. After a period of orientation, examination, and mentorship, Pramudianto was ordained as GKJ Tangerang’s pastor on January 27, 2001. GKJ Nehemia, with its rich history, stands as a testament to the power of faith, community, and perseverance.