GSRI

Established in 1941, the GSRI, or Gereja Santapan Rohani Indonesia, began its journey as Gereja Sidang Kristus Batavia. It started in a simple house on Jalan Drossaersweg, now known as Jalan Tamansari. GSRI’s founder, Pastor Timothy Dzao Zse Kwang, envisioned a church dedicated to spreading the Gospel. The church was initially supported by devoted individuals like Ny. Khouw Swan Nio and Ny. Liem A Ten. They generously donated the house for God’s work. During World War II, Pastor Dzao found himself in Shanghai, unable to return. Fellow pastors, Pdt. Lie Beng Tjoan and Pdt. Jason Linn, bravely continued the work in Jakarta. In Shanghai during 1942, Pastor Dzao’s vision expanded. He established the Ling Liang World-Wide Evangelistic Mission Association (LLWWEMA), with the GSRI becoming a focal point for its outreach. This marked a turning point for the church, solidifying its commitment to evangelism. The GSRI’s name officially changed in 1961, reflecting its Indonesian identity. But its core mission remained rooted in Pastor Dzao’s original vision: to spread the Gospel throughout Indonesia and beyond. The GSRI’s history is filled with stories of perseverance and sacrifice. In 1953, the church sent its first missionary, Miss Lo Souw Wen, to Kalimantan Barat. Tragically, she was killed shortly after, becoming a martyr for the GSRI’s mission. This devastating loss did not deter the church. Instead, it fueled its commitment to spreading God’s word. The GSRI has become a symbol of resilience and faith in Indonesia. Its unwavering pursuit of evangelism has led to the establishment of numerous branches across the nation. The GSRI’s story continues to inspire, reminding us of the power of faith and the dedication of those who serve God.