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Local Residents Oppose Church Renovations

International Christian Concern, Morning Star News, RiauOnline, Suara.com 19 March 2026

A church is brightly illuminated in the sun. — A church in Indonesia.
Photo: PxHere

The Batak Protestant Christian Church has been meeting at its current location in the village of Kulim Jaya since 1995. In addition to receiving official registration with the government, this congregation holds a documented proof of property ownership. Unfortunately, their church building has deteriorated significantly over the years and is now considered unsuitable for regular gatherings. These Christians have been planning renovations – including the construction of a new foundation – since 2010. However, residents of the community have consistently opposed these efforts.

On February 25th, a group of around 70 local residents had gathered outside the church building, demanding a stop to all renovation work. Questioning the legality of the construction, 20 of the demonstrators entered the building and insisted on viewing the church's permits. This protest was supported by police presence.

Indonesia's official permit process requires community approval for religious building projects – a condition that frequently prevents any progress for Christian places of worship. Despite repeated delays and ongoing opposition, the church's leader, Pastor Faber Manurung, intends to continue pursuing cooperation with governing authorities so the building can once again be safely used. To review further reports outlining the challenges encountered by Christians in Indonesia, go to our country profile.

Pray for wisdom and perseverance on behalf of Pastor Faber and the other members of this Indonesian congregation as they seek to obtain the necessary approvals for these long-overdue renovations.
May God touch the hearts and minds of the opposing local villagers – fostering within each of them a greater understanding, respect and tolerance for the Batak Protestant Christian Church – so the Lord's peace and ministry will prevail throughout the community.
Intercede for officials who are administering at every level of governance, asking that they would work fairly and compassionately to safeguard the rights and needs of all people within Indonesia.

Country Information
Population
279,476,346 (2023 est.)

Ethnicity (%)
Javanese (40.1), Sundanese (15.5), Malay (3.7), Balak (3.6), Madurese (3), Betawi (2.9), Minangkabau (2.7), Buginese (2.7), Bantenese (2), Other (23.8)

Religion (%)
Muslim (87.2), Christian (9.9), Hindu (1.7), Other (0.9), Unspecified (0.4)

Leader
President Joko Widodo (2014)

Government type
Presidential republic

Legal system
Civil law system based on the Roman-Dutch model and influenced by customary law

Sources: CIA World Factbook.
Pray for Indonesia
Pray for the continued growth of the church in Indonesia, despite the intense opposition and persecution that has taken place. May the destructive plans of the enemy to eradicate Christianity be frustrated and nullified.

Pray that whatever is intended for evil, God will turn around for good – causing such hatred and violence to not only discredit extremism, but to also compel many to seek salvation in Christ... including the perpetrators of persecution.

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Photo: PxHere

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