Sinta Church

Tracing the Historical Footprints of Sinta Church: A Symbol of Civilization and Religion in Kapuas

Gereja Sinta is more than just a place of worship; it is a living monument that records the long journey of Christian evangelism and social development in Kapuas Regency, Central Kalimantan. Located in Kuala Kapuas, this church stands as a silent witness to the transformation of the Dayak community from traditional times to the era of modernity brought by European missionary efforts. As one of the most revered historical sites (Cultural Heritage Site) in Central Kalimantan, Gereja Sinta encapsulates narratives of steadfast faith, colonial architecture, and cultural integration.

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Origins and Founding Period

The history of Gereja Sinta cannot be separated from the arrival of missionaries from the Rheinische Missionsgesellschaft (RMG) from Germany in the 19th century. However, the building we know today is the result of a long process of organizing mission areas along the Kapuas River. Gereja Sinta was founded in the early 20th century, specifically around the 1910s, to serve the growing Christian community in the Kuala Kapuas area, which was then an important administrative and trading center in the southern region of Kalimantan.

The name "Sinta" itself has a deep meaning in the Dayak Ngaju language, meaning "Love" or "Affection." This name was chosen to reflect the core of Christian teachings and the hope that this church would become a center of love for all segments of society, regardless of ethnic background.

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Architecture and Construction Details

Architecturally, Gereja Sinta is a blend of European colonial style with strong adaptations of local materials. The original building carries the Indische Empire concept but is adapted to Kalimantan's humid tropical climate. The main structure of the church is dominated by ulin wood (Eusideroxylon zwageri), or ironwood, which is the most prestigious and durable construction material in Kalimantan.

One of the most prominent features is the tall shape of the windows and doors with wide ventilation, allowing for optimal air circulation in the hot weather. The towering church steeple serves as a landmark in Kuala Kapuas, often topped with a cross visible from afar, even from the river.

The interior of the church features high ceilings without massive false ceilings, revealing the wooden framework constructed with high-level carpentry techniques, reflecting the meticulousness of local craftsmen guided by missionary architects.

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Historical Significance and Key Events

Gereja Sinta has witnessed various crucial events in the history of Central Kalimantan. During the Japanese occupation (1942-1945), the church experienced difficult times where religious activities were restricted and some of its facilities were repurposed by the Japanese military. However, the building remained standing strong through the turmoil of the war of independence.

Most significantly, Gereja Sinta is the birthplace of the Gereja Kalimantan Evangelis (GKE). It was here that coordination among congregations along the major rivers of Kalimantan was carried out. The church also became a center for education, where missionaries not only taught the Bible but also literacy and health, which later gave rise to the first Dayak intellectuals who played a role in the formation of Central Kalimantan Province in 1957.

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Related Figures and Periods

Several important figures whose names are etched in the history of Gereja Sinta include Reverend Eduard Kriele and figures from the RMG missionaries, who were later succeeded by the Basel Mission from Switzerland. Among the local figures, names like Dayak leaders who served as church elders in the early days of independence contributed to maintaining this church as a social institution.

The golden period of Gereja Sinta occurred in the mid-20th century when it served as the "Mother Church" for evangelistic stations in the interior of Kapuas. This church became the venue for major early synod meetings that determined the church's policy direction in Borneo.

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Preservation Status and Restoration Efforts

As a historical site designated as a Cultural Heritage by the local government, Gereja Sinta receives special attention in terms of preservation. Although it has undergone several renovations to repair weathered wooden parts or replace damaged roof shingles, the authenticity of its facade has been maintained.

The Kapuas Regency government, along with the GKE Church Council, regularly conducts maintenance to ensure its ulin wood structure remains strong. The biggest challenge in preservation is the threat of decay due to high humidity and environmental changes around the riverbanks. The latest restoration efforts have focused on restoring the original color of the building and landscaping the grounds to remain consistent with past aesthetics, while still being functional for modern congregational activities.

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Cultural and Religious Value

For the people of Kapuas, Gereja Sinta is more than just a weekly place of worship. It is a symbol of identity. For Christian Dayak residents, this church is a monument to cultural transformation from the noble traditions of their ancestors towards a civilization based on Christian love. The presence of this church also portrays a high degree of tolerance in Central Kalimantan; its location, often close to Muslim settlements and trading centers, indicates a social harmony that has been maintained for over a century.

During every major celebration like Christmas and Easter, Gereja Sinta becomes a focal point, where local traditions often blend with church liturgy, creating a distinctive Kalimantan religious atmosphere. Hymns in the Dayak Ngaju language echoing within these old wooden walls create a spiritual resonance that connects the past with the present.

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Conclusion

Gereja Sinta in Kapuas is an invaluable historical gem. Through its magnificent ulin wood architecture and the historical narratives attached to it, it tells a story of resilience, adaptation, and faith. As a historical site, it reminds the younger generations of Central Kalimantan of their historical roots, while also inviting all parties to continue preserving the physical heritage and the values of love it represents. Preserving Gereja Sinta means preserving the collective memory of how a society was built on the foundations of spirituality and brotherhood.