Viral Disruption of GMS Worship in Bantul: Sultan HB X Says No Party is Right

A video showing alleged disruption of Christian worship activities in Glugo, Panggungharjo Village, Sewon Subdistrict, Bantul Regency, has gone viral on social media. The incident reportedly involved members of the Gereja Kristen Misi Sejahtera (GMS) on Sunday, 24 May 2026.

The Instagram post by @davidherson_official showed a crowd gathered at a building allegedly used by GMS for worship. The account described forced dispersal and alleged violence by unidentified individuals. ‘Again and again, I received reports today of forced worship dispersal suffered by GMS Bantul congregation from intolerant individuals, even involving violence,’ the account stated. The incident has sparked public concern and widespread discussion on social media.

Bantul’s Acting Head of the National Unity and Politics Agency (Kesbangpol), Yulius Suharta, confirmed the incident. Police officers visited the site to inspect the building used by the congregation. GMS had previously held regular worship services by renting hotel rooms in Panggungharjo. However, since last week, they began using a new building in Glugo along the Southern Ring Road. The activity faced opposition from a community group questioning the building’s legality and permit status as a place of worship.

‘We will report to the Regent and Forkopimda to decide on the situation in Panggungharjo (worship disruption),’ he said. Regarding the opposition and subsequent worship dispersal, Yulius cited permit issues. GMS reportedly holds a Surat Keterangan Tanda Lapor (SKTL), but authorities will verify its validity. ‘Whether the permit has indeed been granted or not,’ he added.