Reverend Yeremia Zanambani Shot Dead in Papua

An Indonesia Alliance pastor, Reverend Yeremia Zanambani, was shot dead in the Hitadipa District in Papua, Indonesia, in September. Let us pray for God’s peace and consolation for the pastor’s family, as well as for the members of the church he led.

Reverend Yeremia Zanambani was shot dead on September 19, 2020, by armed forces that were fighting separatist and criminal groups. Witnesses and his wife and friends who found him confirmed what happened. The shooting occurred in the Hitadipa District, in the Intan Jaya Region, of Papua, Indonesia.

The church then asked the central government to investigate because for many years, church members allegedly have been killed by security forces during military operations against rebel groups. The Indonesian government formed the Joint Fact-Finding Team to investigate these cases, and on October 21 officials announced that Rev. Zanambani indeed was shot by armed forces. After the results were released, the church asked the government to keep investigating and evaluating the military operations so that civilians can be safe.

Pastor Yeremia was well known and respected among the Moni people in the remote areas of Papua. He served as District Superintendent and helped with the translation of the Bible into the Moni language.

Our Indonesian Alliance brothers and sisters are deeply hurt by their loss. Let us pray for Rev. Zanambani’s wife and children, and for his congregation. Pray that God will take care of them and protect them. Pray also for the communities that are suffering because of the military operations; many civilians have fled to the jungle to stay safe. Pray also for God to bring justice and peace to Indonesia.