Immanuel Church Jakarta Inaugurated as Cultural Heritage

TheIndonesia.co - Jakarta Governor Anies Baswedan inaugurated Immanuel Protestant Church in Western Indonesia (GPIB) as a cultural heritage building after its revitalization was completed. The inauguration was carried out symbolically by the signing of an inscription by Governor Anies Beswadan at the church located on Jalan Medan Merdeka Timur, Central Jakarta, Monday, December 20, 2021.

According to Anies, church revitalization has become a historic moment since the building was first built in the 19th century. It has been completely restored so that it can immediately welcome Christians who celebrate Christmas this weekend.

Anies explained the church was built and inaugurated on August 24, 1839, under the name Willemskerk. "After the proclamation of independence, the name of this church was changed to Immanuel Church in 1948, when GPIB was founded. Now, after being revitalized, we are all happy because it can be used to welcome Christmas this year," he said.

The GPIB Immanuel building is an example of Indonesian unity because anyone can feel equality and togetherness. "This must always be encouraged and maintained by providing a sense of justice," he said.

The former Minister of Education and Culture said the revitalization of the Immanuel Church was a long work carried out by a team with great care. The Immanuel Church Cultural Heritage Status is also a reminder that this place belongs to all the people of Jakarta.

Jakarta Provincial Culture Office with consideration from the Restoration Team has issued a Restoration Recommendation Letter Number 2109/-1.853.15 dated April 21, 2021, to the Immanuel Church Jakarta regarding the Plan for Revitalizing Architecture & Landscape of the Immanuel Church. The Restoration Recommendation Letter is also part of the effort to protect cultural heritage buildings, suspected of being cultural heritage, or even buildings located in the restoration area so that each restoration process remains in accordance with conservation principles.

The GPIB Immanuel has a fairly large courtyard, in the style of Imperial architecture which is part of Neo-Classical. It has Baroque and Rococo influences in its interior.

Meanwhile, the church building has a symmetrical circular plan with four entrances, has a domed roof covered with shingles with a cupola at the top. In addition, this church is also equipped with an elevator to make it easier for people with special needs to attend worship services.