Pastor “Andi” and his wife can finally breathe a sigh of relief; their 12-year struggle to secure a place of worship in Indonesia is finally paying off. 

Pastor Andi previously faced opposition from locals when attempting to hold services for his congregation of about 30 people.

As reported in national media — a story that went viral in 2022 — Pastor Andi’s home could not legally serve as a permanent place of worship for Christians in the area, as it failed to meet the requirements stipulated in the Joint Regulation of the Minister of Religious Affairs and the Minister of Home Affairs of the Republic of Indonesia (specifically the 2006 Joint Regulation, numbers 09 and 08). 

At that time, they were forced to hold services by rotating among the homes of various congregation members. 

Amid the pressure and persecution they endured, International Christian Concern (ICC) supported Pastor Andi and encouraged him to remain steadfast in his ministry. We provided Bibles, communion sets, a guitar, and a keyboard — the equipment they needed for worship. 

Obtaining a permit to build a church in Indonesia is no easy task. The most challenging requirement is securing support from at least 60 residents living near the proposed site, which the local sub-district or village head must officially validate.  

They must also obtain a written recommendation from the Religious Harmony Forum (FKUB) and the local Ministry of Religious Affairs, as well as secure a Building Approval (PBG) or a Building Construction Permit (IMB). 

For the past four years, Pastor Andi has worked persistently to obtain a permit to build a church. This month, they finally secured the necessary permits in accordance with government regulations. 

“Please pray that the church construction process proceeds smoothly,” an ICC staffer in the region said, “and that the congregation may worship in comfort and with great joy.” 

* Names and locations have been changed or withheld for security purposes. 

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