Three Churches Closed Over Permits

Christians standing in front of their sealed church doors - Photo: World Watch Monitor www.worldwatchmonitor.org
Church members hold a sign that says, "Our Assemblies of God church has been sealed by the government."
Photo: World Watch Monitor

Authorities on the Indonesian island of Sumatra closed three churches on September 27th, stating that they lack the necessary permits. Church leaders, however, argue that the closures relate instead to restlessness among majority Muslims because of the rapid growth of churches in the area.

According to an anonymous source, protest rallies had been planned by the "Islamic Defenders Front" for September 28th, with plans for 1,000 protesters in front of the three churches. It is believed that the churches were sealed to prevent this demonstration. Church groups have issued statements urging the government to not give in to pressure but to respect religious freedom.

A spokesman for the Jambi district denies that the action was influenced by pressure. He added that if the churches file the necessary documentation, permits would be issued within a week. However, the pastor of one of the affected churches in the village of West Kenali claims they have been worshipping there since 2004 and had fulfilled all the building permit requirements. Despite all past efforts to develop good relations with local authorities, the permits were still not granted.

For more reports on the difficulties facing Christians in Indonesia, along with informative video documentaries, go to our website.

Intercede for these Christians in Indonesia, asking God to help them demonstrate the love and peace of Christ to their neighbours, despite the opposition they face. Pray that the governing authorities will respect the rights of all citizens and, therefore, allow the churches to re-open without the risk of further protests. May the message of the Gospel continue to spread throughout the region, bringing many more to a saving knowledge of Jesus as Lord.

  • 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.

Indonesia News

  • Protests Forcibly Delay "Holyland" Construction
    A believer is being baptized.
    Pray that Christians in Indonesia will remain faithful.
    Photo: VOMC

    Construction has been ordered to cease on the building of a Christian complex in Karangturi village, despite the fact that all necessary permits had previously been obtained. The order, which was issued on September 2nd by the Regency of Karanganyar, followed formal complaints from Islamic groups that were opposed to the construction project. The letter from the regency cited concerns that the development could lead to "social conflict," and then stated that construction may resume once tensions within the local community are resolved.

  • Christians Blocked from Worshipping
    A white church building with blue trim in Indonesia.
    A church in Indonesia.
    Photo: VOMC

    For two consecutive Sundays, approximately 20 opposing Muslim residents in the village of Gerendeng Pulo have prevented a church congregation from gathering for worship. The opposition stems from concerns that the believers began meeting in a new location without the approval of local Muslim leaders.

  • Children Injured in Mob Violence
    A group of children are smiling and laughing. One is playing an ukulele.
    Children in Indonesia.
    Photo: ILO / Yodhi Prasetyo (cc)

    On July 27th, a violent incident occurred in Padang City, Indonesia, when several men attacked a prayer house, which was established to provide religious education to Christian children. Armed with sticks, the assailants ordered the believers to disperse, and then they proceeded to smash the building's windows. During the attack, two children (ages eight and eleven) sustained injuries after being struck by objects that had been thrown amid the violence.