A Politically Aware Church

IL News 009/2015

Citizenship Education Training of Trainer 

Mamuju, West Sulawesi, April 20-22, 2015

The thought that politics are tainted, and thus the church has to distance itself from it is obsolete! All aspects of life, including politics is something Christians have to pay attention to. It is not possible to divide life as a Christian into two separate fields: spiritual and political life. As a responsible citizen, Christians should be involved in politics.

Unfortunately, not all Christians are aware of this. Which is why Christians need to be made aware of their calling to involve themselves in politics.

Encouraged by the desire to help Christians know their calling in political participation, The Church of Toraja Mamasa (GTM) and Leimena Institute again collaborated to do the Citizen Education Training of Trainers (TOT). The event took place in Lebbeng Village, Mamuju Coast, West Sulawesi, on April 20-22, 2015, and was attended by 17 participants. One the participants, Yulianus from Tabulahan Classis, walked for 7 hours by foot, then used a two-wheeled vehicle, in order to participate in the TOT.

The participants learned the four main modules of Citizen Education, and then they practiced on delivering the modules in front of the other participants. Mr. Rev. Madarhakad, one of the Chairmen of the GTM Synod, also joined and motivated the participants in the process.

The participants were very enthusiastic. “Politically Aware” became one the jargon that was said over and over by the participants in the course of TOT PW. We hope that the participants enthusiasm to be Christians who are “Politically Aware” can be fulfilled!

We were able to comprehend the real meaning of politics. Politics is actually not tainted, it’s even biblical. The misuse of power is what we have to be cautious of. (Pusparani, Congregation of Elim Lebbeng, Mamuju Region)

TOT PW gave me knowledge about my responsibility as a citizen and the understanding of us as Christians regarding politics. I also learned how to deliver these materials to my congregation. (Rev. Elianus Lamta, Pangandaran Classis, Mamuju Region)

TOT PW helped me to understand the meaning of politics. It helped and motivates me to be a good politician. It also enriched me with the skill to be a trainer in the classis and congregation where I serve, and in other possible classis. (Seseltut, Aralle Classis, Mamuju Region)

TOT PW helped to build my confidence, and opened my eyes toward several changes, and made me aware of the task and responsibility in politics. (Rev. Erwin Marabbang, Lakahang Classis)