Indonesia — September 28, 2025: The Church of the Nazarene (COTN) Papua District marked a historic milestone as it celebrated its 30th anniversary under the theme “Becoming a Mature Church, Rooted in Christ, Bearing Fruit for Papua” (Colossians 2:7; John 15:16). From its humble beginnings, the district has grown into a vibrant community of believers, now in Phase 2 development with 10 registered congregations across Papua.
The story began on September 29, 1997, in Merauke Regency during the government’s transmigration program. Among the new residents was Pastor Kris Sagiman, who responded to God’s call by establishing an evangelistic post in Jagebob. This became the first footprint of the Church of the Nazarene in Papua.
In 1998, the ministry expanded to Jayapura through Pastor Anthonius Wakum, an alumnus of the Indonesian Nazarene Theological College (INTC). His encounter with Mr. Jantje Kanipa sparked a partnership that led Mr. Kanipa and Mr. Hendrik Sauhoka to officially join the denomination in 1999. After returning from Yogyakarta, the Nehemia GKN Congregation in Abepura was established—still faithfully led by Pastor Kanipa today.
The early 2000s became a season of rapid expansion. INTC graduates and local leaders planted new congregations across Papua:
- 2002 – COTN Imanuel Kotaraja (Rev. James Wambrauw)
- 2003 – COTN Beracha Sumbe (Rev. Frangky Korwa)
- 2003 – COTN Aletheia (Rev. George Sorontu), which later gave birth to Kasih Karunia, Kristus Tuhan, and Shalom
- 2004 – COTN Elshadai Sorong (Rev. Agus Triyono)
- 2004 – COTN Mawar Sharon (Rev. Dohara Situmorang)
- 2004 – COTN Alfa Omega (Rev. Anthonius Wakum)
- 2006 – GKN Paulus Doyo (Rev. Dedi Kanipa)
- 2011 – COTN Petra Dok V Jayapura (Rev. Leo Fouw)
- 2011 – COTN Almond (Rev. Isak Deda)
This wave of church planting stands as a testimony of God’s guidance and the faithful obedience of His servants.
Reflecting on the milestone, Rev. Isak Deda, District Superintendent of Papua, shared:
“With His faithful love, God has guided the journey of COTN Papua District to this 30th anniversary. Thirty years is not a short time, but a long journey filled with grace, joy, challenges, and struggles. Yet, to this day, it is the Lord who has helped us, as Samuel declared: ‘Thus far the Lord has helped us’ (1 Sam. 7:12). My hope is that we remain steadfast in faith, rooted in Christ, and bear fruit that impacts Papua, the nation, and beyond.”
As the Papua District celebrates three decades of ministry, the vision remains clear: to grow as a mature church, remain rooted in Christ, and bear lasting fruit for the glory of God. With gratitude for the past and hope for the future, the Church of the Nazarene in Papua continues to press forward in unity, love, and mission.
