GPIB Gloria

In 1974, the burgeoning metropolis of Jakarta began to spill into its surrounding areas. Bekasi became a popular choice for new residents. PT Mas Naga Raya Estate seized this opportunity, transforming a former rubber plantation in the village of Jakasampurna into the Jaka Permai housing development. This is where the story of GPIB Gloria begins. By late September 1978, only 20 families called Jaka Permai home. Two residents, Adrianus Manongga and Temmy Warouw, began visiting their neighbors, identifying fellow Christians. Five families, representing various denominations, began holding ecumenical services in each other’s homes every two weeks. This small fellowship celebrated their first Christmas together at the home of Ari A. Lolong, with Pastor Rumambi officiating. The Christian community continued to grow. They formalized their fellowship, calling it “Kebaktian Persekutuan.” Services continued bi-weekly, led by rotating pastors and priests. Between 1980 and 1981, the Kebaktian Persekutuan expanded rapidly. Catholic families joined the Bekasi Parish. The remaining Protestant families split into two groups. One group formed a Gereja Kristen Oikumene (GKO) congregation in Jaka Permai. The second group, predominantly members of GPIB, established a fellowship called “Warga GPIB Gideon Jakapermai,” led by Arie A. Lolong. As the Gideon fellowship grew, conversations with the Synod led to the decision to establish a formal GPIB congregation. On March 30, 1983, the Synod officially authorized the establishment of the new congregation. Construction of a meeting hall began, with a cornerstone laying ceremony held on April 9, 1983. The official transfer of authority from the Gideon fellowship to the new GPIB congregation took place on April 24, 1983. The name “Gloria,” meaning “Glory to God,” was chosen for the new church. On October 30, 1983, GPIB Gloria was officially inaugurated, led by Synod Chairman Pastor B. Simauw. Reverend J.F.K. Wattimena served as the consulting pastor. At its inauguration, GPIB Gloria consisted of 146 families and a church council of 33 members. From humble beginnings in a small housing development, GPIB Gloria grew into a thriving congregation, a testament to the faith and dedication of its founders.