Access to Church Building Blocked

Gaining permission to build a church building in Indonesia has proven onerous for many followers of Jesus, creating multiple instances of conflict between Christians, community members, as well as their governing leaders. (For previously published reports outlining some of these incidents, go to our country report.)

The Indonesian Pentecostal Church in Sungai Barar, which is located on the island of Sumatra, had managed to successfully go through the approval process and complete the construction of their new building with all necessary permits. Rather than being able to enjoy gathering in their government-approved facility, the congregation now faces a new challenge: local community members have built a wall that is blocking the only passable road to the building.

In a social media post that was published on July 24th, Pastor Ruyanto Situmorang shared how surrounding landowners had constructed a wall across the road, preventing congregants from gathering. Alternate roads were impassable due to large holes and other obstructions. The church's leadership has brought their case before the Regional Representatives Council of Jambi Province, whose members are imploring the local government to help the congregation resolve the issue.

Pray that the officials of Sumatra's provincial and local governments would be open and willing to assist this congregation in finding an amicable resolution to the dispute relating to the wall built by opposing neighbours. May this challenging situation serve as an opportunity for these church members to demonstrate the love, grace and peace of God to their opposers. Furthermore, please pray for the Lord's blessings upon the ministry of this body of believers as they faithfully reach out to those of their community with the Good News of the Gospel.