Thanksgiving Service for the Closing of the SDK 2024 Program and the Opening of SDK 2025

Jakarta, November 29, 2024 – The Indonesian Bible Society (LAI) held a Thanksgiving Service marking the closing of the One in Love (SDK) Program 2024 and the opening of the SDK 2025 Program. The event, held at the Bible Center Building in Jakarta, was attended by around 140 participants from various church denominations and individuals.

Rev. Martua Riman Kurniadi Saragih from GKI Rawamangun Jakarta delivered the sermon based on the Word of God from 1 Peter 4:10: "Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms." He encouraged every LAI partner to be a "small flame on the shore," guiding those who are lost in the darkness of the world.

"Darkness will become even darker if there is no light. However, the small flame that we keep faithfully can become a beacon of God's love that leads others to salvation," emphasized Rev. Martua.

During the presentation session, Erna Yulianawati, Head of the Communication and Partnership Department at LAI, shared the achievements of the SDK 2024 program. A total of 110,358 copies of the Bible had been distributed throughout the year, reaching 71.2% of the targeted goal. Although the target was not fully met, Erna appreciated the increase in participation, with 93 new churches joining to support the program.

"We are grateful for the increasing support. This shows the spirit of unity among Christians in answering God's call together," said Erna.

However, there are still significant challenges, particularly in fundraising. Amid the rise of online gambling, which has diminished the purchasing power of the public, LAI is working hard to fund Bible missions. Imagine, the turnover in online gambling reaches tens of trillions of rupiah, while financial support for spreading the Good News does not even reach one trillion in a year. This serves as a reminder for all of us to become more aware of this noble mission.

Joint Mission through SDK 2025

The official launch of the SDK 2025 program during this meeting is expected to strengthen the shared commitment to bring God's Word to the farthest corners of the country. SDK is designed to provide an opportunity for those who cannot directly engage in remote areas to still contribute meaningfully to Bible distribution.

"We are no longer talking about denominations, but about unity as God's people who share the same Bible. Let us use SDK as a platform to serve together, transcend differences, and reach more souls," said Rev. Martua.

The event concluded with a prayer of thanksgiving and a shared commitment to keep the "small flame" burning, guiding people toward God's love. LAI invites all churches and individuals to actively participate in SDK 2025, making God's Word a light for the nation.

With the same spirit, all partners left the meeting with renewed hope that through SDK, they can be part of God's great mission for Indonesia. Becoming a small flame that keeps burning, until Maranatha. (perlando)