A brief history of Hallelujah SDA Church

The history of the Seventh-day Adventist Church, Hallelujah Congregation, began with a ministry group known as Bali Urban Ministry (BUM) in 2006. This ministry was initiated by several families and individuals who shared a strong burden for mission and evangelism in urban areas, particularly in Kuta and its surrounding regions. Among the pioneers were the families of Freddy Rompas and Hendrik Kumontoy, along with Stanly Langi, Mario Giger, Ruben Lewi L. Dero, Karthen Stenly, Roger Laluas, Efraim Laluas, and several other committed members. United by a common vision, they longed to establish a Bible study group that could reach urban communities with the message of hope and salvation in Jesus Christ.

At the beginning of 2007, under the guidance and leading of Jesus Christ, this ministry group was formally recognized as the Bali Urban Ministry Sabbath School Branch, with approximately 20 members. This marked an important step in strengthening the group’s structure and expanding its ministry outreach.

During its early years, the congregation did not have a permanent place of worship and therefore conducted its worship services in various rented locations. The services initially took place in a borrowed school building at China Indonesian School (CHIS), and later moved to Dyana Pura Hotel in the Legian area. Despite frequently changing venues, the members remained steadfast and united, demonstrating a strong commitment to fellowship, worship, and spiritual growth.

As the spiritual maturity and membership of the congregation continued to grow, the Bali Urban Ministry Sabbath School Branch reached a significant milestone. On November 26, 2011, it was officially organized as a church, with approximately 25 members, under the direct leadership of Pastor Sosor Manik, S.Th. This formal organization marked a new chapter in the life of the congregation, affirming its readiness to function as a fully established church.

Throughout its journey, the church has been faithfully served and guided by various pastors and church workers who contributed significantly to its development and stability. Those who have ministered to the congregation include Pastor Eko Kansil, Pastor Fabyo Rumagit, Pastor Budi Solichin, Pastor Jerry Wauran, Pastor Benny Tobing, Pastor Reynaldo Katuuk, and currently Pastor Gavrila Laloan, who continues to lead and coordinate the ministry. Under the present leadership, the congregation has grown to approximately 50 members, reflecting God’s continued blessing upon the church.

In line with its dynamic urban mission context, the congregation has continued to worship in rented facilities, adapting to changing circumstances while maintaining consistency in its ministry. Over the years, worship services have been held in several hotels, including Harris Riverside Hotel, Serela Kuta Hotel, The Sun Boutique Hotel, Cross Vibe Paasha Atelier Bali Kuta, Fave Hotel Kuta, and Grand Zuri Hotel.

From its humble beginnings as a small urban ministry group to its present role as a growing and vibrant congregation, the Seventh-day Adventist Church, Hallelujah Congregation, stands as a testimony to God’s leading, the faithfulness of its members, and a shared commitment to proclaiming the Gospel in the heart of Bali’s urban communities.