The Makassar branch office of the Indonesian Bible Society (LAI) in South Sulawesi held a series of meetings over four days, from 4 to 8 August 2026, at several synod offices within its service area in preparation for Bible Prayer Month 2026. This tour strengthened collaboration in giving thanks for the presence and spread of God’s Word across the Indonesian archipelago.
The first visit began in Luwu, specifically in Palopo Regency. In the office of the Luwu Indonesian Protestant Church Synod (GPIL) , we were received by Rev. Isbon Nosi, M.Th, the Synod Chairman. The discussion flowed in an atmosphere of warmth and mutual understanding regarding the importance of God’s Word, which continues to speak to the faithful through media and in languages close to their hearts. Both organisations agreed that the Bible must remain a compass amidst such rapid changes in the times.
Our journey continued to a region steeped in culture, in the town of Rantepao, North Toraja. We held a meeting with the Synod of the Toraja Church, represented by Rev. Dr Christian Tanduk, M.Th., M.H., as General Secretary. The meeting took place in an atmosphere filled with joy. As one of the synods with a large congregational base, the Toraja Church emphasised that the celebration of Bible Prayer Month is a crucial moment to reflect upon the legacy of faith and spiritual literature that has transformed Toraja society. Discussions continued on child-rearing within a Christian family context in connection with the publication of the ‘Parenting Bible’, which we also presented as a souvenir during this trip.
After leaving Rantepao, the journey became increasingly steep, winding through the mountain slopes towards the office of the Mamasa Toraja Church Synod (GTM). Amidst the natural beauty of the Mamasa mountains, we were welcomed by Mr Dkn. Victor S,E in his capacity as treasurer of the GTM Synod. Synergy was achieved and the partnership grew stronger. LAI and GTM together gave thanks for God’s faithful love and providence through His Word, which continues to sustain the faith and shape the character of the congregation from the city to the remotest mountain villages.
From Mamasa, the team set off once more for the mission field in Mamuju. The Executive Committee of the Synod of the West Sulawesi Christian Church (GKSB), represented by Rev. Mardi Tamandalan, S.Th, as Chair, and Rev. Feibert D. Tombokan, M.Th, as General Secretary, welcomed LAI with great enthusiasm. During this meeting, both parties engaged in a strategic discussion regarding the challenges of evangelism in the challenging border and remote areas of West Sulawesi. The GKSB Synod is committed to continuing to strengthen its partnership and support LAI’s ministry in the fields of Bible translation and distribution across the archipelago.
Four synods have been visited, four doors of fellowship have been knocked upon, and one great commitment has been sealed. Through this strong partnership and the synergy of the Good News ministry, LAI, together with the local synods, is not merely celebrating an annual tradition, the Month of Bible Prayer. They are rewriting the history of gratitude for the arrival of God’s Word on the soil of the Indonesian archipelago—a living Word that continues to unite, and which will always guide His church into the future, from generation to generation.
