The newly elected chairman of the Indonesian Gospel Tabernacle Church (Gereja Kemah Injil di Indonesia, GKII) Regional Synod II in Central Papua for the 2026–2031 term, Rev. Dr. Hans Wakerkwa, M.Si., has called on all parties to end violence, killings, and bloodshed in Timika and other parts of Central Papua.
He delivered the appeal during the closing session of the GKII Regional Synod II Conference on Friday, October 16, 2026, emphasizing that peace is essential to the future of communities and younger generations in Papua.
The conference, held from October 13 to 17, 2026, served as a forum for electing the regional church leadership and establishing ministry priorities for the next five years. The gathering also highlighted the church’s role in supporting communities affected by insecurity and strengthening cooperation with government institutions.
“Peace is an important foundation for education, development, and the future of Papua’s generation,” Hans said.
One of the key priorities under the new leadership is providing pastoral assistance and support to congregations living in displacement sites and conflict-affected areas, including Intan Jaya, Puncak, Puncak Jaya, and surrounding regions.
“The church is committed to collaborating with the government to assist residents and encourage their return to their home villages,” said Hans, who is serving his second term as chairman of GKII Regional Synod II.
In addition to supporting displaced congregations, the synod plans to strengthen administrative systems and expand digital communication to ensure that church-related information reaches congregations in remote villages.
The church also hopes to receive government assistance in expanding internet access in isolated districts, including through the use of Starlink satellite technology. Improved connectivity is expected to strengthen coordination between church leaders, congregations, and government authorities.
Humanitarian assistance will remain another major priority, particularly for communities facing hardship as a result of conflict and displacement. Through these efforts, the church aims to strengthen its role in supporting affected residents and promoting peaceful coexistence across Central Papua.
Hans also expressed appreciation to provincial and regency governments, as well as the organizing committee, for supporting the successful conference.
He noted that the event also included the inauguration of a new synod building measuring 30 by 50 meters. The facility is expected to serve as an important asset for church activities while also providing a venue that can be utilized by government institutions and the private sector.
Meanwhile, conference organizing committee chairman Thomas Tabuni said the successful implementation of the event reflected God’s providence, allowing the entire program to proceed smoothly, safely, and in an orderly manner.
He reported that approximately 10,000 people attended the series of activities and were able to return home peacefully following the closing session on October 16, 2026.
“On behalf of the organizing committee, we express our deepest gratitude and appreciation to the Central Papua Provincial Government, the Puncak Regency Government, the Intan Jaya Regency Government, and the Mimika Regency Government for their full support, which enabled this event to be held successfully,” Thomas said.
Thomas also praised the strong participation of local communities, describing it as a reflection of solidarity and the spirit of mutual cooperation.
One notable contribution came in the form of 213 pigs donated for the event, most of which were provided by community members and church congregations.
“For us, these donations represent a heartfelt gesture and a demonstration of community support for the church’s ministry. We extend our deepest gratitude to all community members and congregations who contributed to ensuring that this event could be carried out successfully,” he said.
He added that the success of the conference should not be measured solely by the election of new church leadership, but also by the safe, orderly, and harmonious atmosphere maintained throughout the gathering.
A traditional bakar batu communal cooking ceremony held on October 17, 2026, served as a further expression of unity and mutual cooperation among participants and community members.
The gathering underscored the importance of maintaining social bonds and strengthening a sense of brotherhood amid the challenges facing Central Papua.
With its new leadership and ministry agenda for the 2026–2031 period, GKII Regional Synod II Central Papua aims to continue supporting vulnerable communities, strengthening humanitarian outreach, and encouraging cooperation with government authorities.
The church’s call for peace reflects its broader commitment to helping communities affected by violence and displacement while promoting stability, social cohesion, and a better future for the people of Papua.
