Historical Development of the Immaculate Heart of the Virgin Mary Catholic Parish Church in Tangerang City, Banten (2013–2022)

Abstract

Over the course of nearly a decade, the Immaculate Heart of the Virgin Mary Catholic Parish Church in Tangerang City, Banten, has undergone significant revitalization, both in terms of infrastructure and community outreach. This study explores the historical trajectory and social influence of the church from 2013 to 2022, focusing on the interplay between physical development, congregational growth, and interreligious relations. As the first Catholic parish established in Tangerang following the expansion of the Batavia Apostolic Vicariate—now the Archdiocese of Jakarta—the church has become a vital religious and cultural institution. Through annual programs spearheaded by the parish council and socio-economic service units, the church has strengthened its role not only as a place of worship but also as a promoter of religious tolerance and social cohesion in Indonesia. The research highlights how liturgical development, community engagement, and architectural transformations collectively shaped the church’s evolving identity.