GMS Bantul Congregation Traumatised After Forced Worship Disruption

The forced dispersal of a worship service at GMS church has left deep emotional scars on its congregation. However, church authorities have urged members not to retaliate. This was stated by GMS Central Public Relations Officer Josiah Michael, who expressed regret over the Sunday (24 May) incident involving intimidation and threats against GMS Bantul congregants during the service dispersal. ‘We deeply regret the incident involving the forced dispersal of worship, accompanied by alleged physical and verbal intimidation and threats from irresponsible individuals towards GMS Bantul congregants,’ said GMS Central PR Officer Josiah Michael in a statement to reporters on Tuesday (26 May 2026). ‘This incident has left wounds and trauma among the congregation, particularly children,’ he added. Josiah stated that such an incident should not have occurred, as freedom of religion and peaceful worship are fundamental human rights enshrined in the constitution. ‘The restriction of worship through intimidation leading to violence is a violation of national tolerance and harmony values,’ he added. Urging Congregation Not to Retaliate Meanwhile, GMS Bantul PR Officer Eko called on all congregants to respond calmly to the incident and to pray for those affected in Bantul. ‘GMS also urges all parties not to respond with division. Instead, peace and the rule of law must be upheld, accompanied by prayers for Bantul to quickly return to a peaceful state where congregants can worship without fear,’ Eko told reporters on Tuesday (26 May 2026). Eko also expressed his highest appreciation to the Bantul Regency Government for handling the case. ‘GMS Bantul has handed over the handling of this incident to the relevant authorities for resolution within legal frameworks,’ he added. Reasons Behind GMS Worship Dispersal Earlier, FJI DIY Chairman Abdurrahman confirmed that FJI members visited the GMS church on Sunday (24 May) around 8:00 AM. He stated the service was dispersed due to community objections. He said the church had been built over two years without community consent, causing locals to question its presence in a predominantly Muslim area. ‘The building has existed for two years, but the community was unaware of its purpose. When GMS planned to officially open it, locals were confused, with some thinking it was a warehouse or café,’ he told reporters on Monday (25 May 2026). Additionally, a meeting took place the night before the incident on Saturday (23 May) involving pastors, Sewon Police Station, Sewon District Office, and Bantul Regency’s National Unity Agency (Kesbangpol) to discuss the GMS opening. ‘Kesbangpol had warned the church about the planned opening, and residents had also opposed it. The pastor was summoned by Kesbangpol, but the church only had a notification permit from the Ministry of Religious Affairs,’ he said. Abdurrahman stated Kesbangpol had advised reconsidering the GMS opening, as the church lacked full permits and had not consulted Bantul’s Religious Harmony Forum (FKUB) during construction. ‘Kesbangpol had indicated the permit was insufficient, and if the church proceeded regardless, they would not be held responsible for any consequences,’ he added. Nevertheless, GMS proceeded with the opening, causing community unrest and prompting residents to report the issue to FJI DIY. ‘Yesterday, tensions escalated because residents had already opposed it. After receiving reports, FJI went to the site,’ he concluded.