Saint Peter Catholic Church Long Hubung

The Grandeur of Saint Peter Catholic Church Long Hubung's Architecture: A Spiritual Landmark in the Heart of Mahakam Ulu

Gereja Katolik Santo Petrus Long Hubung is more than just a place of worship; it is the physical manifestation of the convergence between profound Christian faith and the rich culture of the Dayak people in East Kalimantan. Located in Long Hubung District, Mahakam Ulu Regency, this church stands as an architectural icon dominating the skyline of the upper Mahakam River region. The building reflects artistic ambition as well as respect for local traditions that have been deeply rooted for centuries.

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Design Philosophy and Architectural Style

Visually, Saint Peter Catholic Church Long Hubung adopts a Neo-Gothic architectural style modified with local elements (inculturation). Its main structure emphasizes strong verticality, a fundamental principle of Catholic church architecture symbolizing the connection between humanity and God. However, what makes this building unique is the integration of Dayak Bahau and Dayak Kenyah motifs on its facade and interior.

The church roof is designed with a very steep pitch, adapting the shape of a Lamin (longhouse) roof but on a much more monumental scale. The use of shingle material in its early construction provided an organic texture that blended with the surrounding nature, although in modern renovations, more weather-resistant materials have been used without losing its iconic original silhouette.

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Historical Narrative and Construction Process

The history of Gereja Santo Petrus Long Hubung's establishment is inseparable from the Catholic mission in the interior of Kalimantan, which began in the era of the Capuchin Order and was later continued by OMI (Oblates of Mary Immaculate) missionaries. The construction of the current church building is the result of extraordinary local community cooperation.

The construction of this church involved local experts who understood the characteristics of the unstable soil on the banks of the Mahakam River. Its foundations were reinforced in such a way to withstand the massive weight of the building. Construction took years, during which every wood carving adorning the entrance and altar was done manually by the best carvers from the villages around Long Hubung. This makes the church building a living portfolio of the woodworking skills of the Mahakam Ulu community.

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Structural Innovations and Unique Details

One of the most prominent architectural elements is its bell tower. This tower is designed in such a way that its sound can reach the villages across the river. The interior structure of the church uses a spacious clear span system, creating a column-free space in the center (nave), thus providing an unobstructed view for the congregation towards the altar.

The "Paku" carvings and "Hornbill" motifs, which are sacred symbols for the Dayak people, are strategically placed on the interior support columns. The church ceiling is high with exposed intricate wooden structures, creating a grand natural acoustic effect when choirs sing liturgical songs. The stained glass windows in this church are also unique; instead of only depicting European saints, some panels illustrate biblical narratives with backgrounds of typical Kalimantan flora and fauna.

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Cultural Significance and Inculturation

Gereja Santo Petrus Long Hubung is an excellent example of the inculturation of the Catholic Church in Indonesia. Its architecture accommodates local values without disregarding the canons of Roman Catholic liturgy. The main altar is made of very massive ironwood (ulin wood), intricately carved with asang motifs symbolizing protection and courage.

For the people of Mahakam Ulu, this church is a symbol of identity. Its existence marks a social transformation from a society that strongly adheres to ancestral traditions to one that can harmonize these traditions with modern religious teachings. The space inside the church often becomes a venue where the Hudoq dance is performed during certain religious events, indicating that the church's architecture was indeed designed as a cultural vessel.

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Role of Local Architects and Craftsmen

Although the basic design often receives direction from professional architects appointed by the Archdiocese of Samarinda, the aesthetic success of Gereja Long Hubung heavily relies on local craftsmen. They are the "anonymous architects" who translate theological concepts into Dayak visual forms. The details on the church's gate or portal show a high degree of precision, combining traditional woodworking techniques with the functional needs of a modern public building.

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Visitor Experience and Current Utilization

Currently, Gereja Katolik Santo Petrus Long Hubung is the main religious tourism attraction in Mahakam Ulu. Visitors arriving by river will be greeted by the magnificent sight of this building from afar, standing sturdy on a small hill or elevated land on the banks of the Mahakam.

Upon entering the church area, visitors will experience a calm and cool atmosphere, a result of intelligent cross-ventilation designed to cope with Kalimantan's humid tropical climate. The spatial experience inside provides a sacred yet familiar impression. Every corner of the building, from the pews to the sacristy, demonstrates a dedication to the quality of durable local wood materials.

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Conclusion: An Architectural Legacy for the Future

Gereja Katolik Santo Petrus Long Hubung remains a center of social and spiritual activity for the community. As an iconic building, it bears the responsibility of preserving the collective memory of Long Hubung residents. With its sturdy structure and timeless design, this church is not just a place of worship, but a monument of civilization in the river upstream that continues to inspire anyone who beholds it. Its existence proves that architecture can be a strong bridge between faith, tradition, and the progress of the times in the land of East Kalimantan.