Indonesian Pastor Calls Easter a Moment of Faith Renewal in Papua

TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Vero Balubun, Pastor of the Indonesian Protestant Church of Papua (GPI) Elim Abepura congregation in Jayapura City, Papua, said that the Easter celebration is a moment for faith reflection and spiritual strengthening for the congregation to live by the values of love and renewal, as reflected in the meaning of Christ's resurrection.

"The power of Christ's resurrection can change the direction of human life, give courage to carry out missions, and bring true renewal," he said in Jayapura on Sunday, April 5, 2026.

According to Balubun, the power of the resurrection renews humanity from the old self filled with selfishness, hatred, and indifference, to a new humanity that radiates love, respects others, and glorifies all creation.

He explained that in the Bible reading from John 20:1-10, Mary's encounter with Jesus transformed sadness and fear into strength to bear witness.

"The power of Christ's resurrection can change the direction of human life, give courage to carry out missions, and bring true renewal," he said.

The GPI Elim Abepura held a Faith Refreshment Service (KPI) combined with a night of praise and worship to welcome Easter, beginning on Saturday (March 4th) at 6:30 PM WIT and lasting until 3:00 AM WIT Sunday morning.

The Chair of the Church Holidays Committee (PHBG), Marthen Timisela, stated that the various activities during the faith refreshment evening included praise and worship by the ministry, Bible study sessions, praise and worship, and a crucifixion scene performed by church youth.

The sense of community was further enhanced by the torchlight walk and the traditional Easter egg hunt.

"The Easter torchlight parade was attended by thousands of congregants, both from GPI Elim and several other church denominations in the Abepura area," he said.

He expressed gratitude that all Easter activities proceeded safely and smoothly.

Read: Easter Holiday Traffic on MKTT Toll Road Rises 13.38 Percent

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