Old Church GMIST Ulu Siau

Tracing Faith and History at the Old Church GMIST Ulu Siau

Gereja Tua GMIST (Gereja Masehi Injili di Sangihe Talaud) Ulu Siau is more than just a place of worship; it is a living monument that encapsulates the long journey of Christianity, colonialism, and the resilience of the island communities in North Sulawesi. Located in the heart of Siau Island, Siau Tagulandang Biaro Islands Regency (Sitaro), this church stands as a silent witness to the socio-cultural transformation of the maritime communities in the northern part of the archipelago.

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Origins and Founding Period

The historical roots of Gereja Tua GMIST Ulu Siau are inseparable from the wave of Christian evangelization in the Sangihe and Talaud Islands, which began from the VOC era to the Dutch East Indies government. Specifically, the early congregation in Ulu Siau was formed in the 19th century, but the construction of the church building we know today as the "Old Church" reached its peak in the late 1800s to early 1900s.

Its construction was influenced by missionary efforts from the Netherlands, particularly through the missionary organization Nederlandsch Zendeling Genootschap (NZG). Siau, then ruled by local kings under Dutch protectorate, became a significant center for the growth of faith. This building was constructed to replace a simpler wooden structure, reflecting the established faith of the congregation and the influence of European architecture that began to spread to the islands.

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Architectural Characteristics and Construction Details

Gereja Tua GMIST Ulu Siau exhibits a unique blend of simple neo-Gothic colonial architectural style with adaptations for the tropical island climate. One of the most prominent features is its very thick walls, reaching 60 to 80 centimeters. These walls were built using a mixture of coral stone, sea sand, and burnt lime—a traditional construction technique proven to be very sturdy against volcanic tremors from the active Mount Karangetang.

The building's shape follows a basilica pattern with a symmetrical rectangular floor plan. Large windows with arched tops dominate the sides of the building, serving as natural ventilation and providing dramatic lighting to the worship space. At the front, a towering bell tower stands, which in the past served as a marker for worship times and an alarm for residents in case of natural disasters.

The interior of the church retains its authenticity in several parts, including the use of ebony and ironwood (linggua) in the roof construction and church furniture. The high pulpit placed at the front is a central element reflecting the tradition of Dutch Reformed (Protestant) churches.

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Historical Significance and Important Events

This church was not just a place of ritual, but a center of civilization in Siau. During the Japanese occupation (1942-1945), the building experienced difficult times where religious activities were restricted, but its physical structure remained preserved thanks to the local community's respect for the sanctity of the place.

One of the most memorable historical events was the church's role in Indonesia's independence transition process in the Siau region. Church leaders in Ulu Siau actively educated the community about nationalism without abandoning their religious identity. Furthermore, this church witnessed the independent formation of the GMIST organization in 1947, separating from the Dutch church's administrative structure while maintaining ecumenical relations.

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Figures and Periodic Influence

Names of evangelists like E.T. Steller and local assistant evangelists (Guru Injil) are highly respected here. However, the role of the Kings of Siau, such as King Jacob Ponto and his successors, is no less important. The relationship between the royal house (Kedatuan) and the church in Ulu Siau created a unique social order, where Christian values were integrated into local customary law. This church became a place where nobles and commoners sat together, a significant social shift for its time.

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Preservation Status and Restoration Efforts

As one of the main historical sites in Sitaro Regency, Gereja Tua GMIST Ulu Siau has been designated as a protected cultural heritage building. The local government, along with the GMIST Synod, conducts regular maintenance. The biggest challenge in preservation is exposure to corrosive volcanic ash from Mount Karangetang and the humid sea air, which can damage wooden materials.

Restorations carried out so far have been very careful not to alter the original form. Roof replacements and repainting have been done following the original color scheme (white and gray) to maintain its colonial aesthetics. The local community also has a high awareness in maintaining the cleanliness and sanctity of this site, considering it the "heart" of the identity of the Ulu Siau people.

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Cultural and Religious Importance

To this day, Gereja Tua GMIST Ulu Siau remains a very active center of religious activity. The use of the Siau local language in parts of the liturgy and congregational songs shows how deeply this church has integrated with the local culture. Major celebrations such as Christmas, Easter, and Tulude (a traditional Sangihe-Siau thanksgiving ceremony) always involve this church as a central point.

Symbolically, this church represents the resilience of the Siau people. Standing under the shadow of one of the world's most active volcanoes, this old building remains standing, symbolizing unwavering faith and an unforgettable history. For tourists and researchers, visiting Gereja Tua GMIST Ulu Siau is a journey through time, witnessing how coral stone and ironwood were carved into a monument of devotion to God and country.

With all its architectural grandeur and historical depth, Gereja Tua GMIST Ulu Siau continues to inspire the younger generation in the Sitaro Islands to appreciate their historical roots, while moving forward in the dynamics of the modern era. It remains a beacon of faith on the northern doorstep of Indonesia.