RADAR TULUNGAGUNG – The Christmas Eve celebration at Gereja Kristen Jawi Wetan (GKJW) in Tulungagung on Wednesday (Dec. 24) was marked by a solemn and communal atmosphere.
Congregants took part in the full ceremony, reflecting a strong sense of unity and shared devotion.
Gatut Sunu Wibowo, Regent of Tulungagung, highlighted the importance of togetherness and social solidarity in building an inclusive society.
“The values of togetherness and social solidarity are vital for strengthening community life. In a diverse society, the local government is committed to pursuing development that is productive, equitable, and focused on residents’ welfare at all village levels,” he said.
He also praised the active participation of all segments of society, including religious communities, for their contributions to regional development programs.
“We greatly value the involvement of all community members, including Christian congregants, who not only comply with government regulations but also actively contribute to social and community life,” he added.
Regent Gatut Sunu Wibowo stressed that a harmonious, safe, and peaceful community is vital for regional development.
He urged residents to maintain stability, strengthen unity, and foster dialogue for the common good.
“By upholding humanitarian values, promoting social awareness, and expanding opportunities for dialogue, we can nurture a peaceful and harmonious society a crucial foundation for building the region we all cherish,” he said.
As 2025 draws to a close and 2026 approaches, Regent Gatut Sunu Wibowo encouraged residents to reflect and renew their spirit of togetherness.
“Let us end this year with reflection and reaffirm our commitment as we enter the new year. May God bless every step of our development efforts and the lives of all of us,” he said.
Meanwhile, Yos Ahadre of the GKJW Tulungagung Christmas Event Committee said the Christmas Eve celebration featured a variety of spiritual performances, including dances by children and teenagers and dramas by the church youth.
“We organized these performances to express the joy of Christmas and to strengthen the sense of togetherness among the congregation,” Yos said.
He added that the Christmas Day service on Thursday (Dec. 25) was held separately from the Christmas Eve celebration.
The service followed the usual Sunday worship format and was attended by hundreds of congregants.
“The Christmas Day service on Dec. 25 was conducted as a dedicated worship service, separate from the celebrations. Attendance was estimated at around 200 to 250 people,” he explained.
Yos also expressed his appreciation for the presence of local government officials and the support of security personnel, who helped ensure the smooth running of the Christmas celebrations at GKJW Tulungagung.
“With the support of all parties, including the local government and security forces, we are grateful that the entire series of Christmas celebrations and services proceeded safely, smoothly, and meaningfully,” he concluded.
All Churches Under Tight Security
Earlier, Tulungagung Police stepped up security measures at several churches across the regency.
On Wednesday (Dec. 24), officers used metal detectors to thoroughly inspect the premises.
Tulungagung Police Chief AKBP Muhammad Taat Resdi, via Public Relations Officer Ipda Nanang, said the security sweep was conducted ahead of worship services.
The operation aimed to prevent any security disturbances near the churches and ensure the safety of Christian congregants.
“The sweep was part of the sterilization of churches used for Christmas celebrations and regular Sunday services,” Ipda Nanang said.
The church security sweep was conducted by personnel from the Samapta Unit and SatIntelkam of Tulungagung Police using metal detectors.
“So far, the sweeps have not revealed anything suspicious. Bomb detection equipment did not detect any hazardous items inside the churches. The situation remains safe and secure,” he added.
Ipda Nanang explained that the church security sweeps were conducted to prevent potential terrorist threats that could disrupt worship.
“In addition to the sweeps, Tulungagung Police, together with the military, local government, and community organizations, implemented both visible and covert security measures during the services,” Ipda Nanang said. (sri/c1/rka)