Inauguration of KKPD Mitra LAI Surabaya Period 2024–2029
Wednesday, November 20, 2024, was an important moment for the ministry of the Indonesian Bible Society (LAI) in Surabaya. Taking place at the Diponegoro Indonesian Christian Church (GKI) Church, Surabaya, the inauguration of the LAI Mitra Surabaya Support Raising Working Group (KKPD) for the period 2024–2029 took place. This inauguration marked the great commitment of KKPD LAI Mitra Surabaya to support LAI's great mission, namely the Satu Dalam Kasih (SDK) program, which aims to spread the Bible to all corners of the archipelago.
The event began at 16.30 WIB with a briefing session designed to equip KKPD members with insight and a spirit of service. This briefing was guided directly by Mr. Dr. Sigit Triyono, Secretary General of LAI, and Mrs. Erna Yulianawati, S.Th, Head of the LAI Communication and Partnership Department. In their presentation, they emphasized the importance of strong synergy between LAI and KKPD to move the hearts of the people to be involved in raising support, both morally and materially. The material presented not only provided new knowledge, but also motivated the participants to see this ministry as a valuable calling of faith.
Entering 19.00 WIB, the event continued with a solemn inauguration service. The solemn atmosphere was felt when 25 representatives of God's people, including from various church levels, church councils, and pastors who are members of BAMAG Surabaya, gathered to witness this inauguration. In the service, Rev. Claudia Kawengian, Chairperson of PGIS Surabaya, delivered a message of the word that strengthened the prospective KKPD administrators. Through her sermon, Rev. Claudia reminded the KKPD members to always make the Word of God the basis for all their ministries.
The inauguration procession reached its peak with a prayer of confirmation led by Rev. Claudia and the reading of the Decree by Mrs. Erna Yulianawati. At that time, an emotional and solemn atmosphere enveloped all attendees, indicating the seriousness and commitment of the newly inaugurated KKPD members to serve God through active support for the LAI mission. Mr. Junaidi, as the new Chairperson of the KKPD LAI Mitra Surabaya, in his speech emphasized that the great mission of spreading the Good News can only be achieved if each member has the spirit to work together, share love, and offer their best in service. An enthusiastic welcome was also delivered by Rev. Henny, representing the people of God who were present. She emphasized that the existence of the Surabaya KKPD is an important part of the shared mission to reach people who thirst for the Word of God. The event was closed with the direction of the LAI Secretary General, Dr. Sigit Triyono, who not only strengthened the commitment of the KKPD members but also motivated all attendees to support this great mission as well as a reminder that the mission of spreading the Word of God is not only an individual task, but a shared calling as the body of Christ. Great hopes are placed on all members of the Surabaya KKPD for the 2024–2029 period. With the new management, they are expected to bring a fresh spirit in serving, foster creativity, maintain integrity, and expand the support network. In its role as a strategic partner of LAI, KKPD LAI Mitra Surabaya is expected to be a light that illuminates the hearts of many people, reaching every generation with the love and truth of God's Word. Hopefully, through this journey of service, LAI's great vision, "God's Word reaches all generations," can continue to be realized. With the strength of faith and togetherness, let us continue to move forward, bringing the light of God's Word to the remote corners of the archipelago. (hana)
