Bogor, February 14, 2025 - The Indonesian Bible Institute (LAI) celebrated its 71st Anniversary with a thanksgiving service and celebration that took place at the Church of the Assemblies of God (GSJA) Jemaat Bethlehem, Bogor. The event was attended by 837 people consisting of LAI partners, LAI staff, and church guests around Bogor.

The celebration was enlivened by various choirs, including the William Booth Bala Keselamatan Christian College Choir, the LAI Printing Employees Choir, and the Talitakhum Choir. A special performance was also given by Meltho Pasto who sang the song Your Vessel, accompanied by the Deaf Community in sign language, reflecting LAI's spirit of inclusivity in the ministry of God's Word.

In this moment, LAI also launched the book "The Bible in the Indonesian Context: Challenges, Potential, and Hope" compiled by the Indonesian Theological Association (ATI). The book is the result of ATI's collaboration with LAI since the 2024 Bible Symposium and is a deep reflection on the relevance of God's Word in the life of the nation and state.

The thanksgiving service was led by Father Albertus Purnomo, OFM, who in his sermon emphasized the meaning of biblical spirituality. \"Biblical spirituality is rooted in spirit, which is the Spirit. In Hebrew it is called Ruah, in Greek Pneuma. The Holy Spirit is like the wind or breath; it is invisible, but has great power and brings life," said Father Albertus.

He also invited people to understand that the Holy Scriptures are present in history as a source of strength in difficult times. "Most of the Old Testament was written during the Babylonian exile, when the Israelites lost their way. The Torah, which is the core of their spirituality, was born in the midst of suffering. In other words, Scripture is the spirit that lifts people up from adversity," he added.

The theme LAI Cares for Deaf Friends was also a highlight of this celebration, where throughout the event there were sign language interpreters assisting the deaf community in attendance. The event also saw the publication of Bible Stories Throughout the Year in Sign Language. This step shows LAI's commitment in ensuring that the Bible is accessible to everyone, including people with disabilities. The Bible is not just a text, but also a life. Everyone, without exception, deserves the Word of God in a language they understand.

The LAI 71st Anniversary event is a reflection of LAI's long journey in spreading the Word of God and building Biblical spirituality in Indonesia. With a spirit of inclusive and transformative ministry, LAI continues to be committed to bringing the Bible to everyone, without exception.