Head of the GKII Synod Calls for an End to Violence in Papua

Jayapura (ANTARA) - The Head of the Synod of the Evangelical Church of Indonesia in Papua, Reverend Petrus Bonyadone, has called for an end to violence in Papua.

The call was made in response to various cases of violence that have caused unrest among the community.

“As a servant of God, I see it from a humanitarian perspective where life is in God’s hands, so no human being has the right to take the life of another,” said Reverend Petrus Bonyadone.

According to him, the church does not approve of violence in any form because it does not glorify God and is contrary to the values of the Gospel.

Therefore, whatever the reason, taking a life is an inhumane act and will certainly have consequences.

“Especially since Papua is known as the Land of the Gospel, so acts of violence should not occur in a land that upholds the values of faith,” said Reverend Bonyadone.

Reverend Bonyadone expressed his concern over the social impact caused by the disruption of the security situation, which has forced members of the congregation to be displaced.

This condition also has an impact on the family’s economy, children’s education, and health services.

The parties involved are expected to restrain themselves and prioritize a persuasive approach to maintain security and express their appreciation to the Indonesian National Police and the Cartenz Peace Task Force, which are considered to be continuously striving to maintain security and provide protection to the community.

“On behalf of the church, we urge all parties to maintain Papua as a Land of Peace and stop all forms of violence that harm the community,” said Reverend Bonyadone.