GPKB Pulomas

Amidst the vibrant tapestry of Jakarta, discover the GPKB Pulomas. This unassuming church, nestled on Jalan Pulo Mas Barat VI, holds a story of resilience and unity. GPKB Pulomas, short for Gereja Punguan Kristen Batak, translates to Batak Christian Protestant Church. It serves as a spiritual home for the Batak community, an ethnic group originating from North Sumatra. The church’s history, however, hasn’t always been peaceful. For nearly a decade, GPKB Pulomas weathered a storm of internal conflict. A leadership schism threatened to tear the congregation apart. This division, stemming from disagreements within the church’s governance, cast a long shadow over the community. But the spirit of faith and the desire for reconciliation ultimately prevailed. In a momentous event in August 2020, at GPKB Pulomas, the two opposing factions signed a peace agreement. This reconciliation, witnessed by key figures from the Indonesian Communion of Churches (PGI) and the United Evangelical Mission (UEM), marked a new chapter for the church. The reunification wasn’t without its challenges. Even after the agreement, tensions remained, particularly surrounding the appointment of pastors. Disagreements over who held authority led to further disputes. The situation escalated to the point where the Ephorus, the church’s highest-ranking official, sought intervention from the National Commission on Human Rights (Komnas HAM). These conflicts, while disruptive, underscore the importance of GPKB Pulomas to its community. They reveal the deep-seated passion and commitment of its members. GPKB Pulomas stands as a testament to the power of faith to overcome adversity. It serves as a beacon of hope and unity for the Batak community in Jakarta. As you stand before GPKB Pulomas today, remember its journey. It’s a story of division, reconciliation, and the enduring strength of the human spirit.