The return trip to Palembang from 26 to 28 September 2026 proved to be a truly memorable occasion for the team from the Indonesian Bible Society (LAI). This visit was not merely a routine work engagement, but rather an opportunity to strengthen ties and partnerships with the LAI Palembang Partner Support Fundraising Working Group (KKPD) of LAI Mitra Palembang. On 28 September 2026, the KKPD in the City of Pempek celebrated its second anniversary, marking a journey of service that began with their inauguration at the Palembang Baptist Church back in 2024.

The series of activities began on Friday, 26 September 2026, with a Spiritual Refreshment Service and Presentation Training at St Joseph’s Catholic Church in Palembang. The service was led with great warmth by Fr. Simon Margono, Pr., in his capacity as Chair of the South Sumatra Christian-Catholic Ecumenical Presidium (OKSS) and also an adviser to the KKPD LAI Mitra Palembang. In his reflection, Father Simon reminded the congregation that the Word of God is a lamp for faith, which must not be kept solely for one’s own enjoyment, but must be shared with others. The solemn atmosphere continued with a presentation training session for the committee and members of the KKPD LAI Mitra Palembang. The training was led by Ms Caroline Marlissa, Head of the Mass Support Mobilisation Section, LAI’s Communications Department. She explained various aspects of LAI’s ‘One in Love’ (SDK) Programme and the steps involved in implementing it in churches.

The following day, 27 September 20, the LAI team, together with KKPD officials, delivered presentations on the SDK programme to various churches in Palembang, starting with GKSBS Palembang Siloam, GKSBS Siloam “Sungai Buah”, GRII Palembang, GKII Sekojo, GBI MPI Simpang Bandara and GBI MPI Citra Grand City. That busy Sunday concluded with a meeting between the LAI team and Rev. Tuberto Sihombing, Senior Pastor of GBI MPI Simpang Bandara and a senior classmate of Mrs Caroline at the STT Bethel Indonesia Seminary. This warm reunion between fellow alumni also served as a historic reunion, given that Rev. Tuberto was part of the KKPD Palembang Founding Team in 2024. He also offered words of encouragement for the entire team to remain steadfast in their ministry in the city of Palembang.

The highlight of this gathering took place on Monday, 28 September 2026, during the Thanksgiving Service marking the 2nd Anniversary of KKPD LAI Mitra Palembang at GPKB Taman Siswa. In the presence of the committee members and invited guests, Rev. Tuberto Sihombing delivered a deeply moving sermon. He emphasised that the ministry of the KKPD is, in essence, “ministry on the quiet path”, a sincere devotion rooted in humanity and a calling of the soul. This quiet ministry tangibly touches and transforms the lives of those in need of the Good News. The atmosphere of deep gratitude was then brought to a close with a warm reception, reaffirming the resolve to continue moving forward together in love. (Bonita Panjaitan)