GPIB Immanuel Marks 187th Anniversary, Bima Arya Urges Legacy of Faith and Service
Deputy Home Affairs Minister (Wamendagri) Bima Arya Sugiarto has emphasised the importance of upholding the values of faith, sincerity, loyalty and service to others throughout the long journey of the Protestant Church in Western Indonesia (GPIB) Immanuel Jakarta.
Bima said the 187-year age of GPIB Immanuel does not merely demonstrate the endurance of a historic building, but also the continuity of values and teachings passed down from generation to generation.
According to him, every part of the church holds meaning that can serve as a lesson for life.
“Here there are teachings of faith that transcend generations, that are passed down across generations, which have brought us all here today,” Bima said in his statement on Wednesday (26/8/2026).
He made the remarks while attending the 187th anniversary celebration of GPIB Immanuel Jakarta on Tuesday (25/8).
He highlighted the lotus flower philosophy carved on the dome of GPIB Immanuel. The lotus, Bima said, remains clean and beautiful even though it grows in a muddy environment. He considered this philosophy relevant as an illustration of how people can continue to bring goodness amid the various dynamics of life.
Bima also linked the lotus philosophy to the importance of leaving behind works that benefit the next generation. According to him, human life is temporary, whereas sincere dedication and work can provide benefits that last far longer.
“What does that mean? That is what it means to be human. Our lives are mortal, our lives are temporary, but our works, our devotion are eternal and everlasting,” he said.
In addition to sincerity, Bima saw the value of loyalty in the historic organ at GPIB Immanuel, which still functions well to this day. He assessed that the organ’s continued operation is inseparable from the care of the church administrators and congregation in maintaining a heritage that has accompanied the church’s journey for more than 180 years.
Bima described the integration between the organ and the building’s acoustic system as a reflection of the harmony that has been built between the church and its surrounding environment. He expressed hope that this spirit will continue to be maintained in facing changing times.
“This is harmony, this is a noble value of this church. Of course, this is once again a symbol of how this church has for 180 years been united with its environment, with the city of Jakarta, building harmony and integration,” he said.
Entering an era of increasingly rapid technological development, Bima also reminded of the importance of ensuring that technological progress goes hand in hand with values and wisdom. According to him, technological developments, including artificial intelligence (AI), must continue to be directed towards strengthening human welfare, rather than eroding moral values.
For this reason, he appreciated the presence of the younger generation at the GPIB Immanuel anniversary celebration. Their presence is considered important to ensure that the values of faith and morals continue to be passed down as future generations become increasingly familiar with various technological advances.
On that occasion, Bima also conveyed the commitment of the Ministry of Home Affairs (Kemendagri) in encouraging regional governments (Pemda) to deliver inclusive development. Regional governments, he said, must ensure that cities are built for all members of society regardless of background.
“The Ministry of Home Affairs today continues to ensure that all governors, all mayors and all regents in Indonesia never abandon their citizens in their daily work. Ensuring that their cities are built for everyone,” he explained.
He added that the government is also obliged to guarantee that the public can practise their worship according to their respective religions and beliefs. This is part of efforts to maintain unity and harmonious social life amid Indonesia’s diversity.
Furthermore, Bima expressed hope that the long journey of GPIB Immanuel will not stop at efforts to maintain the building as a historical heritage. More than that, he encouraged the church to continue being a space for the growth of faith, service, love and the formation of the younger generation.
“It is not only the building that is maintained, ladies and gentlemen, but let us believe that a faith that continues to live, a service that is increasingly impactful, and a love that becomes a blessing to others are the hallmarks of the Immanuel church in Jakarta,” he concluded.