Malanginspirasi.com – Gereja Kristen Jawi Wetan (GKJW) celebrated its 94th anniversary on Thursday, 11 December 2025, at the GKJW Great Assembly Office, Jalan Slamet Supriadi No. 18, Sukun, Malang City.
This year’s celebration carried the powerful theme “Menyala GKJW Ku” (“My GKJW Shines”), a personal call for every member to keep shining and become a blessing to the wider community.
The service was led by Rev. Natael Hermawan, Chairman of the GKJW Great Assembly.
Reflecting on history, Rev. Natael Hermawan said the 94th anniversary was an important moment to look back at GKJW’s journey since its founding on 11 December 1931 in Mojowarno, Jombang.
He highlighted that the church’s 94-year history has been filled with dynamics, including its most difficult period during the Japanese occupation (1942–1945) when many church leaders were imprisoned and accused of being Dutch collaborators; some even lost their lives.
“By knowing and recording our history, we gain new spirit to serve. Today’s challenges are different from the past. Yet GKJW must continue to shine and be a blessing for East Java, the nation, and especially the city of Malang,” he said.
Maintaining Harmony
Malang Mayor Wahyu Hidayat, who attended the celebration, urged the people of Malang to strengthen unity and tolerance amid the city’s rich diversity.
He stressed that Malang’s development can only succeed when all elements of society are committed to maintaining harmony.
“Let us unite our energy by building interfaith tolerance, respecting one another, staying away from hatred, and enhancing the quality of our diversity,” Wahyu said.
He added that Malang’s progress is the fruit of collective struggle involving the church, government, and community alike, and closed his remarks by calling for continued solidarity for a better future.
The theme “Menyala GKJW Ku” emphasizes the personal responsibility of each member to let their light shine through real service. The word “Ku” (my) underscores individual calling.
The theme also aligns with GKJW’s vision until 2034: to become an independent church that brings blessings to society.
The 94th anniversary was more than a ceremony. It served as a moment of historical reflection and renewed commitment to service.
Through “Menyala GKJW Ku,” GKJW reaffirms its determination to keep bringing light to the lives of its congregation and the people of Malang.
