GKI IN TANAH PAPUA MOURNS VIOLENCE IN ANGGRUK

Jayapura, Papua – Grief has shrouded the GKI Church in Tanah Papua following heartbreaking news from Anggruk District, Yahukimo Regency, on March 21, 2025. Teachers and medical workers—who have long served as pillars of humanity and education in remote areas—became victims of violence that shook the entire church community.

Rev. Andrikus Mofu, M.Th, Chairperson of the Synod Executive Board (BP) of GKI in Tanah Papua, delivered an official statement during a press conference held in Jayapura, his tone filled with deep sorrow and concern.

“We are deeply mourning. Anggruk is a place of ministry. There are 65 congregations, 8 ministry zones, and 9 districts in that area that have lived in peace. The teachers who became victims served in SD YPK Daniel Anggruk, located in the classis’ ministry center,” he said softly.

The tragedy has been deeply shocking, especially since Anggruk and Yalimek have long been known as peaceful and welcoming regions. Since the Gospel first arrived, the people of Yalimek have shown a strong spirit in building their future through education and faith. They once asked GKI and international missions to build dormitories and send their children to school—a request that has borne fruit through many generations of graduates who are now contributing to the development of their homeland, including in Yahukimo.

But that day left a wound—one that scarred not only the body, but the soul of the church and the people of Papua.

“We have never experienced such an incident in that area before. It is truly shocking and heartbreaking,” said Rev. Mofu firmly.

GKI in Tanah Papua is calling on all parties to remain calm and not be provoked by actions that could worsen the situation. The church also urges law enforcement to conduct a thorough and fair investigation and bring those responsible to justice.

Beyond that, GKI invites all citizens to nurture peace, maintain calm, and continue to walk hand in hand in love.

“The Church will not back down. We will continue to serve, continue to share the message of salvation, and continue to hope. We believe that the light will not be extinguished just because of a storm,” concluded Rev. Mofu.

This tragedy has left a deep wound—but it also strengthens GKI’s commitment to serve the people of Papua. It is hoped that this incident will be the last, and that Tanah Papua will remain a home of peace for all who dwell within it.