JAYAPURA CITY GOVERNMENT LAUNCHES 2024 CHRISTMAS FESTIVITY WITH THE SPIRIT OF UNITY

Jayapura, December 1, 2024 – The Jayapura City Government officially launched the 2024 Christmas Festivity through the "Gerbang Natal" (Christmas Gateway) event held at Taman Imbi, Jayapura City. The festive event embraced this year's PGI Christmas theme, "Let Us Go to Bethlehem."

Acting Regional Secretary (Plt) of Jayapura City, Evert Merauje, called on all Christians in Jayapura City to reflect on the true meaning of Christmas, which is to glorify God and give thanks for His blessings.

“I invite all of us to offer praise and gratitude to Almighty God for the event of Christmas. The theme ‘Let Us Go to Bethlehem’ reminds us to return to things that glorify God, give thanks, praise, and exalt His name,” said Evert Merauje during his speech.

Evert also acknowledged that the people of Jayapura City are still in the euphoria of the Regional Elections (Pilkada), both for gubernatorial and mayoral elections. However, he emphasized the importance of preparing hearts to welcome Christmas through self-reflection and strengthening one’s relationship with God.

“We need to introspect ourselves, to see what God desires in our personal lives, within our families, and in the society of Jayapura City,” he added.

A Moment to Unite Christians

The Chairman of the 2024 Gerbang Natal Committee, Djoni Naa, explained that the event aims to encourage the community, especially Christians, to prepare themselves for Advent and the Christmas celebration on December 25.

“The purpose of this event is to unite various church denominations and beliefs of the residents of Jayapura City, so that we remain of one heart for humanity and God’s glory,” said Djoni.

He also expressed his hope that this event would serve as a platform to strengthen interfaith brotherhood in Jayapura City and as a reminder of the values of unity and love that are central to the Christmas celebration.

This joyful event marked a meaningful beginning to welcome Christmas 2024, fostering the spirit of togetherness and strong faith within the Jayapura City community. (*)