Henriette Tabita Lebang

Ery Lebang

Henriette’s grandparents, especially from her father’s Toraja lineage, were revered guardians of tradition and respected community leaders. They guided decisions on rice planting, ceremonial rites, and maintaining communal harmony. From them, Henriette inherited noble values: unwavering faith, selfless sacrifice, compassion for others, a spirit of generosity, and the courage to champion justice, particularly for women. These principles became the foundation of her life, inspiring her every step in service and contributions to society. Kalau mau, saya bi

Henriette began her elementary education at SD Elim Makassar, and in 1965 she continued at SD 1 Rantepao, Toraja, following her family’s relocation. She pursued her secondary education at SMP Kristen Rantepao, graduating in 1968. Her high school journey began at SMA Kristen Rantepao and later continued at SMA Negeri 5 Surabaya, where she completed her studies in 1971. Driven by a passion for learning, she pursued theological studies at the Jakarta School of Theology, earning a Bachelor of Theology in 1975 and a full Theology degree in 1977. Guided by her dedication and sense of calling, Henriette advanced her studies in the United States at the Presbyterian School of Christian Education in Richmond, Virginia, obtaining a Master of Arts (MA) in 1987 and a Doctor of Education (EdD) in 1991, solidifying her academic foundation and leadership in theological education and service.

Henriette Tabita Lebang began her service journey at the Indonesian Communion of Churches (PGI) around 1980 as Assistant to the General Secretary, marking the start of a career dedicated to faith and leadership. Between 1984 and 1986, she led PGI’s Women’s Department, advocating for the role of women in church leadership. After 1991, she served at the Leadership Development Institute (LPK) of the Toraja Church and held key positions in the Toraja Church Central Board as Chair of the Synod Executive Body (BPS) and Chair of Congregational Development, shaping a leadership rooted in service and community. From 2006 to 2010, she served as Director of the Toraja Church Theological Institute, strengthening theological education in Indonesia. Her international engagement includes her tenure as General Secretary of the Christian Conference of Asia (CCA) from the 1990s to 2015, and membership in the Central and Executive Committees of the World Council of Churches (WCC), elected at the 10th WCC Assembly in Busan, 2013. Her national leadership peaked when she became the first woman to serve as PGI General Chairperson from 2014 to 2019. She later led the transitional board of the Indonesian Bible Society Foundation (2021–2023), and in 2022 was elected as Asia’s representative to the WCC Presidium for an eight-year term. Currently, she serves as Chair of the PGI Advisory Council, continuing to inspire through church service, ecumenical advocacy, and women’s leadership.

Henriette Tabita Lebang has been actively involved in ecumenical church organizations, including the Indonesian Communion of Churches (PGI), the Christian Conference of Asia (CCA), and the World Council of Churches (WCC), with a particular focus on empowering women and promoting gender equality in church leadership and ministry. She has also extended her care to Indonesian migrant women workers abroad, providing both practical support and spiritual guidance alongside her family. Beyond this, Henriette has established herself as a key figure in the ecumenical movement at regional and global levels, fostering inter-church relations, promoting interfaith dialogue, and advocating for social justice through collaborative church initiatives, making her an inspiring leader in both ministry and humanitarian engagement.

Henriette Tabita Lebang has been actively engaged in a wide range of church and ecumenical organizations at both national and international levels. She has held membership and leadership roles in the Indonesian Communion of Churches (PGI), the Christian Conference of Asia (CCA), and the World Council of Churches (WCC), including serving on their committees and executive boards. Locally, she has been deeply involved in the Toraja Church and serves as a mentor and member of the Indonesian Bible Society/Yayasan Lembaga Alkitab Indonesia (YLAI). Furthermore, Henriette participated in the Joint Working Group of the WCC and the Pontifical Council for Christian Unity (Vatican) from 2007 to 2013, strengthening inter-church relations and fostering global ecumenical dialogue.

Henriette Tabita Lebang made history as the first woman to lead the Indonesian Communion of Churches (PGI) as General Chairperson in 2014, affirming the role of women in national church leadership. In 2022, she was elected as Asia’s representative to the World Council of Churches (WCC) Presidium, extending her influence to regional and global levels. Throughout her career, Henriette has held strategic positions within church organizations nationally, regionally, and internationally, serving as an ecumenical advocate who champions gender equality, inter-church dialogue, and inspirational women’s leadership in ministry.

Several defining moments shaped Henriette Tabita Lebang’s calling and dedication to ministry. As a child, she often accompanied her father in his pastoral duties, such as escorting funerals and participating in household worship, experiences that instilled a desire to serve from an early age. A historic milestone came when she became the sole female candidate and was ultimately elected General Chairperson of PGI in 2014, breaking gender barriers in church leadership. During her graduate studies in the United States, she was supported by her family while navigating the commissioning process, embracing the call to church ministry and advocating for gender equality within church structures, despite cultural and systemic challenges. These moments have shaped her commitment to serve with integrity, courage, and an inclusive vision.

Henriette Tabita Lebang emphasizes that the key to success in ministry lies in a blend of hard work, dedication, and integrity. She lives by the principle of “doing everything as best, as thoroughly, and as fully as possible,” making discipline and diligence the foundation of her actions. Loyalty and consistency in service are central, coupled with the awareness to follow her calling rather than seek personal recognition. Her compassion for others, especially church members and marginalized communities, is matched by her active advocacy for gender justice. Moreover, Henriette demonstrates remarkable courage in confronting cultural obstacles and gender limitations within church structures, exemplifying leadership that is wise, inclusive, and transformative.

Information available only in printed publication available in libraries.

Information available only in printed publication available in libraries.

Information available only in printed publication available in libraries.

Information available only in printed publication available in libraries.