YouTube and the Gospel

Last year at this time, most people hadn't yet heard the words "coronavirus" or "COVID-19."  Still, ReFrame Ministry's partners in Indonesia were preparing for the global pandemic—they just didn't know it yet. 

ReFrame Ministries is the new name of Back to God Ministries International.

In January 2020, Rev. Arliyanus Larosa was installed as ReFrame's Indonesian ministry leader. A few days after his installation service, he shared more about his vision for the ministry.

"The internet and social media are becoming the most important channel for communication here just as they are elsewhere in the world," Larosa said. "So, we’ve started new programs using social media, especially short video content on YouTube."

As the pandemic began surging in Indonesia, these new YouTube programs offered Christians a new way to access God's Word and a safe way to worship at home for people like Eny.

"Thank you so much for your words and prayers," shared Eny, who especially enjoys the ministry team's short, five-minute devotional videos. "I now start my mornings each day with your videos. God bless all of you."

Larosa and other members of ReFrame's Indonesian ministry team have developed 12 different programs over the year ranging from short messages for kids and teens to 30-40 minute sermon videos.

Christmas Videos

The team has also produced special, one-time videos that aren't part of a specific program. This Christmas, they worked with children and adult choirs, and musicians in the Jakarta area to create several Christmas carol videos such an Indonesian versions of "Go Tell It on the Mountain," and "O Come All Ye Faithful."

"It is amazing that you share Christmas joy amid the concerns of the current pandemic atmosphere," said one follower named It Bsaland. "Thank you to the supporters and musicians involved, whom God used especially as a blessing for all of us. Merry Christmas!"

Isolated Believers

Still, despite the growing number of online followers, ReFrame's Indonesian ministry team asks for prayers for their isolated followers who don't have internet connection.

"There are some people, especially our older radio listeners, who are in areas where communication is limited," said a member of ReFrame's Indonesian ministry team. "Our own outreach teams are unable to visit these areas due to the pandemic. Please pray for us."