The Mennonite Men Board has approved a $40,000 grant through the JoinHands program to support Indonesian Light Church of Mosaic Mennonite Conference in purchasing the building they currently occupy. This grant will help the church secure a permanent home for its growing congregation, allowing them to continue serving their community and expanding their outreach to new immigrants in the area.
Steve Kriss, Executive Conference Minister of Mosaic Mennonite Conference, expressed deep gratitude for the spirit of generosity that has fueled several grants to the Conference. He highlighted the significant role that Eastern District played in investing in Mennonite Men's JoinHands initiative, which has helped fund projects across the nation.
Indonesian Light Church, with a membership of 100, serves a vibrant and growing immigrant community in Philadelphia, PA.
Philadelphia is a hub for new immigrants from around the world, including Indonesia, where many come seeking refuge from political unrest and religious persecution, especially those of Christian faith. The church has become an essential resource for these new arrivals, offering a place of worship, support, and fellowship. The need for a permanent space has become even more urgent as Indonesian Light Church continues to grow, with new members joining almost every week.
The opportunity to purchase the building they currently occupy came as a rare blessing—a chance to secure a well-maintained property that will serve as a long-term home for their ministry. "We decided to buy this church building because it was a rare opportunity to secure a good property that was in great shape," said a church representative. "This will allow us to continue serving our expanding community."
"We are deeply grateful to Mennonite Men for awarding Indonesian Light Church the JoinHands Grant of $40,000 to help us purchase our first church building," said Hendy Matahelemual, pastor of Indonesian Light. "As an immigrant community in the U.S., a church building is more than just a place of worship—it is a safe space for gathering, a community hub, and a home where we can grow together in faith and fellowship. This support means the world to us, and we are forever thankful for this incredible blessing."
With the $40,000 grant from Mennonite Men, Indonesian Light Church is one step closer to securing their future and continuing their mission of faith, fellowship, and support for immigrants in Philadelphia. The congregation looks forward to the next chapter of their journey and the continued partnerships that will help sustain their ministry.
For more information about the JoinHands program or Mennonite Men, or to contribute to to future JoinHands grants, please visit MennoniteMen.org/JoinHands.
