3,870 PEOPLE IN MANOKWARI BREAK BIBLE WRITING RECORD, MURI RECOGNIZES WORLD ACHIEVEMENT

Manokwari, West Papua – An extraordinary achievement was recorded in Manokwari, West Papua. A total of 3,870 participants successfully broke the record for mass Bible writing and received official recognition from the Indonesian Museum of Records (MURI). This monumental event was held to commemorate the 170th anniversary of the Gospel's arrival in Papua.

MURI’s Operational Director, Jusuf Ngadri, who attended the event, expressed his gratitude for witnessing this historic moment. “We have witnessed 3,870 children writing the Bible from the Book of Genesis to Revelation,” said Jusuf on Saturday (February 1, 2025).

The Bible writing event not only set a national record but was also recognized as a world record in terms of the number of participants. Jusuf explained that the activity lasted for one hour and thirty seconds. “This is the first record of its kind in Indonesia, although similar events have been held worldwide. However, in terms of the number of participants, this is a world record,” he added.

Previously, a Bible writing record was set for 232 minutes with fewer participants. However, Jusuf admired the enthusiasm and dedication of the participants in Manokwari. “The participants deeply immersed themselves in every verse they wrote. For them, this was not just an activity but part of God’s command in their lives,” he said.

According to Jusuf, the ideal time to complete Bible writing is about half an hour, but the reality is more challenging. “They were very meticulous when writing the Bible, especially since it was done by hand. If there was a mistake, they had to start over. So, the process was not as simple as it seemed,” he explained.

He also noted the strong sense of faith visible in the participants’ dedication. “They truly believe that the Bible is the living Word of God and serves as a guide in their lives,” Jusuf added.

Technically, the Bible’s 131,131 verses were divided among 3,870 participants, with each person writing 8 to 10 verses. The event was held at Elim Kwawi Church, Manokwari, on Saturday morning. The MURI award was presented directly to the Chairperson of the GKI Synod in Papua, Rev. Andrikus Mofu, and the Chairperson of the West Papua Council of Churches (PGGP), Rev. Daniel Sukan.

The award ceremony was also attended by several prominent figures, including the elected governor of West Papua, Dominggus Mandacan, the Head of the Ministry of Religious Affairs in West Papua, Luksen Jems Mayor, the Chairperson of the GKI Klasis Manokwari, Rev. Melkianus Warfandu, and the Chairperson of the Committee for the 170th Anniversary of the Gospel in Papua, Derek Ampnir.

After the writing process was completed, the handwritten Bible was handed over by Rev. Daniel Sukan to Rev. Andrikus Mofu. This handover symbolized that the event was not merely a record-breaking achievement but also an offering of faith to God.

This activity not only demonstrated the strength of faith within the West Papuan community but also highlighted how the spirit of togetherness and religious devotion could create remarkable achievements. MURI acknowledged that this accomplishment could inspire the wider community to appreciate spiritual values.