The GKI Bethel Tiom Church Building was officially inaugurated in a joyous ceremony that lasted four hours on Monday (02/05/2023). The event was attended by the Lanny Jaya Police Chief, AKBP Umar Nasatekay, S.I.K, Acting (PJ) Regent of Lanny Jaya Regency, Petrus Wakerkwa, SE., M.Si., the Head of Papua Province’s Department of Education and Teaching, Cristian Sohilait, ST., M.Si., as well as religious leaders, local community figures, and congregation members. More than 300 GKI Bethel Tiom congregation members and 45 TNI-Polri personnel were present to witness this historic moment.

The event began with an opening worship service led by Rev. Sigalingging, S.Th., accompanied by pastors from the Baliem Yalimo Classis. The highlight of the inauguration was marked by a ribbon-cutting ceremony performed by Acting Regent Petrus Wakerkwa, SE., M.Si., along with Rev. Abet Wenda, S.Th., representing the Baptist Church of Tiom, and Rev. Meage, S.Th., from the Synod Executive Board.

In his speech, Acting Regent Petrus Wakerkwa expressed gratitude for the inauguration of the church building, which coincided with the 169th anniversary of the Gospel’s arrival in Papua. He commended the construction committee and congregation members who worked tirelessly for six years to complete this house of worship.

“The Lanny Jaya Regency Government extends its highest appreciation to the entire construction committee and the GKI Bethel Tiom congregation for their extraordinary dedication. This building is a testament to faith that works through deeds,” said Petrus. His statement reflects James 2:17, "In the same way, faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead."

He also emphasized the importance of collaboration between the GKI Bethel Tiom and Baptist congregations in building a better society grounded in Christian values.

“I urge all components of the community to maintain peace and order ahead of the national agenda, particularly the elections, to ensure Lanny Jaya remains safe, peaceful, and conducive,” he added.

As a tangible form of government support, Acting Regent Petrus announced that the Lanny Jaya Regency Government would provide IDR 100,000,000 in financial assistance to the construction committee. This support is expected to contribute to the church’s ongoing development and the congregation's religious activities.

In an atmosphere filled with gratitude, Rev. Sigalingging reminded the congregation of the importance of making the church a center for faith and character building, in line with Ephesians 2:20-22, “Built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus himself as the chief cornerstone. In him, the whole building is joined together and rises to become a holy temple in the Lord.”

The GKI Bethel Tiom Church Building now stands tall as a symbol of faith revival and unity in the Lanny Jaya Regency. The inauguration is expected to be a momentum to enhance faith, strengthen solidarity among congregations, and support the creation of a more prosperous, peaceful, and character-driven community.

Through synergy between the government, the church, and the community, this church building is hoped to serve as a solid foundation for spiritual and social development in Papua, as stated in Psalm 127:1, "Unless the Lord builds the house, the builders labor in vain. Unless the Lord watches over the city, the guards stand watch in vain."