12/24/2024 Indonesia (International Christian Concern) — Although Christmas is a time of sacred anticipation and joy for Christians worldwide, believers in Cibinong, Bogor Regency, Indonesia, have experienced rejection. 

On Dec. 8, locals blocked a Christmas celebration organized by the Pentecostal Church in Indonesia (GPDI) Tegar Beriman, led by Pastor Nicky Wakarry. The protest of the service started after the community learned that Wakarry was sharing his plans for the Christmas celebration with the police. Soon, about 100 residents blocked access to the location of the planned worship activities.  

Police and other local officials intervened to mediate between pastors and village leaders. Residents still refused to allow the Christmas service to take place.  

Due to the absence of a meeting point, Pastor Wakarry asked for permission to continue worship and was approved to be carried out in an open place behind the Emerald City marketing office in the Cipta Graha Housing area in the open field.  

After Wakarry gave a message, the congregation performed the Christmas celebration service. 

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