Reasons Why GMS Declined Offer to Use Bantul Pavilion for Worship

The management of Gereja Misi Sejahtera (GMS) has stated that they were offered the use of a pavilion (pendopo) by the Bantul Regency Government as a temporary place of worship. However, the church committee is currently unable to accept the offer due to various considerations.

Josiah Michael, the Public Relations officer for GMS Central, noted that the Regent of Bantul, Abdul Halim Muslih, had offered the pavilion for worship purposes. While expressing appreciation for the gesture, he stated that the church cannot yet utilise the option.

“We are very grateful and thankful for his kindness, but after considering various factors, we cannot yet take the option to worship in the pavilion,” Josiah told reporters on Friday (5/6/2026). He added that, as a result, GMS Bantul may not hold in-person services this coming Sunday.

He expressed hope that the permit for GMS Bantul will be issued soon, noting that all necessary documentation has been completed. Until then, the congregation will not be able to hold services at the GMS Bantul premises.

It was previously reported that following an incident involving the disruption of worship on 24 May 2026, the GMS congregation in Sewon, Bantul, decided to conduct services online. The congregation hopes that the online format will only be a temporary measure. An announcement regarding the online services was posted on the @gmschurch Instagram account.

“Following official guidance from the government, all GMS Bantul worship activities on 31 May 2026 have been cancelled and transitioned to online worship via streaming at gms.church,” the caption stated.

When asked to confirm the information, Josiah Michael verified that the church is following directives that prevent the congregation from worshipping at their own church building for the time being.