In a historical decision aimed at advancing the mission of the Seventh-day Adventist Church in Indonesia, the North Sumatera Region has been reorganized into two distinct territories: the North Sumatera Region and the Southwest Sumatra Region. This strategic move was approved during the 2024 Year-End Meetings of the Southern Asia-Pacific Division (SSD) and West Indonesia Union Mission (WIUM) and will take effect on December 31, 2024.
The reorganization aligns with the Church's mission to optimize resources, encourage spiritual growth, and strengthen outreach in regions with diverse cultural and geographical challenges. The North Sumatera Region will now oversee areas such as Simalungun, Labuhan Batu, Asahan, Tebing Tinggi, and specific districts in Medan City. Meanwhile, the newly formed Southwest Sumatera Region will encompass provinces like Aceh, Langkat, and Karo, among others.
Advancing the Mission in Challenging Areas
This realignment is part of the broader initiative within the SSD to enhance mission effectiveness. Leaders believe that the new organizational structure will allow for better pastoral care, more focused evangelistic efforts, and a stronger presence in regions that are traditionally challenging to reach.
"The creation of the Southwest Sumatera Region allows us to dedicate more resources and personnel to areas with unique needs," said Pastor Sugih Sitorus, president of WIUM. "This is a step toward ensuring that every community in this vast region can experience the love and hope of Jesus,” he added.
Strategic Asset Distribution
As part of the reorganization, a 60/40 asset distribution plan has been approved to ensure fair allocation of resources. The North Sumatera Region, which covers a larger territory and higher population density, will receive 60% of the shared resources. Meanwhile, the Southwest Sumatra Region will receive 40%, reflecting its relatively smaller geographical coverage.
The decision to implement a proportional distribution underscores the church's commitment to stewardship and mission sustainability. The larger share for North Sumatera acknowledges the greater logistical demands, ministry needs, and operational complexities of the region.
"By allocating resources based on territorial needs, we can ensure that both regions have what they require to thrive," said Panahatan Doloksaribu, treasurer of WIUM. "This approach not only recognizes the unique challenges of each area but also promotes a spirit of collaboration and unity among leaders and members.”
Financial Support for Regional Development
To further support the transition, SSD has pledged $50,000 for the construction of a new regional office. Additionally, the North Sumatera region will begin securing land for its new office before asset distribution is finalized. The local union is also requested to provide supplementary funding to ensure smooth operations in both territories.
A Year of Reorganization and Growth
This year has been transformative for the Adventist Church across the Southern Asia-Pacific Division. Recently, the North Philippine Union Conference (NPUC) was reorganized, leading to the formation of the North Luzon Philippine Union Mission (NLPUM) and the South Luzon Philippine Union Mission (SLPUM). Similarly, the Central Luzon Conference (CLC) gave birth to the Central Luzon Provinces Mission (CLPM). Now Indonesia joins this wave of organizational advancements.
These changes underscore the Church's commitment to refocusing on its mission to share the gospel and nurture believers in areas of significant cultural, linguistic, and geographical diversity.
Benefits of the Reorganization
The benefits of this reorganization extend beyond administrative efficiency. Local leaders highlight that the new structure will provide greater opportunities for leadership development, streamline evangelistic initiatives, and create a closer connection between church leadership and local congregations.
"Smaller territories mean more personalized ministry," said Pastor Binsar Sagala, executive secretary of WIUM. "We can respond to the needs of our members and communities more effectively, especially in remote areas where Adventists are a minority."
The reorganization also allows the Church to leverage its resources more effectively in unreached areas, particularly in territories where Adventists live among diverse religious communities. By enhancing administrative and pastoral capacities, the church is better positioned to fulfill its mission of spreading the gospel to every corner of the region.
Looking Ahead
As the Adventist Church in SSD continues to grow, reorganization is seen as a vital tool to adapt to the needs of its members and communities. Leaders remain prayerful and hopeful that these changes will lead to a harvest of transformed lives and vibrant congregations.
The reorganization of the North Sumatera Region is a testament to the church's unwavering commitment to mission. As these new territories begin their journey, they carry with them a renewed focus on sharing God's love and hope in every village, town, and city.
Edward Rodriguez
Email: erodriguez@ssd.org