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The church's diaconal practice faces a crisis of effectiveness. The dominant model of charitable diakonia (almsgiving) has proven ineffective in addressing the root causes of poverty and structural injustice. Empirical studies show that this failure is often not due to a lack of resources, but rather a failure of strategic management and a narrow theological understanding of diaconal practice itself. This research argues that to respond to poverty effectively, the church requires a dual paradigmatic shift. First, a theological shift in service from charitable diakonia to transformative diakonia, grounded in Liberation Theology and Reformed social justice spirituality. Second, a conceptual shift in "management" from a secular concept to the theological practice of "Transformative Oikonomia", a prophetic stewardship rooted in scripture (Acts 6) and ecumenical frameworks (WCC). Using a qualitative literature review methodology, the author reconstructs a management model for effective and just ministry. In this model, "effectiveness" is redefined and measured not by logistical outputs, but by two theological pillars: (1) Relational Effectiveness, measured by the Theology of Hospitality (Pohl), focusing on the restoration of human dignity; and (2) Structural Effectiveness, measured by tangible contributions to the JPIC (Justice, Peace, and Integrity of Creation) agenda. This study concludes that the Transformative Oikonomia model liberates the church from the "charity trap" and enables a holistic fulfillment of the Missio Dei.

The era of technological disruption, driven by the economic logic of "surveillance capitalism," has created a fragmenting digital architecture. The "filter bubble" or "echo chambers" mechanism algorithmically isolates individuals, exacerbated by a psychological condition of being "alone together" wherein individuals actively engage in a "flight from conversation." This convergence of algorithmic and psychological isolation has fueled an "age of outrage" and extreme social polarization. This crisis is fundamentally theological, as it reduces the dignity of the Imago Dei (image of God) to mere exploitable computational data. This research employs a qualitative library study method with a critical-analytical approach to analyze this phenomenon and propose a reconstruction of Christian leadership theology. This article argues that Christian leaders must develop a new theological competency termed "Digital Wisdom." This wisdom is rooted in a holistic theology that resists dualistic fragmentation. This reconstruction is embodied in the leader's role as spiritual (placing the Word of God as authority over algorithms), educational (building digital ethics and combating disinformation), integrity-based (rejecting partisan outrage), and humanistic (reaffirming the primacy of physical encounter and authentic relationship).

Christian education faces significant challenges in integrating the values of missional spirituality into its curriculum and teaching practices, particularly in the context of globalization, secularization, and a declining awareness of spiritual calling among educators. This study aims to examine the extent to which Pentecostal theological values such as prayer, worship, and mission are implemented in Christian education and how these values contribute to the formation of students' character and spirituality. Employing a descriptive qualitative method, data were collected through in-depth interviews, classroom observations, curriculum document analysis, and open-ended questionnaires administered to teachers and students. The findings reveal that the integration of missional spirituality remains partial and lacks structured incorporation into both curriculum and pedagogy. However, when implemented contextually, these values have been shown to enhance learning motivation, shape Christian character, and deepen students’ spiritual lives. The study concludes that Pentecostal-based missional spirituality can holistically enrich Christian education. The primary contribution of this research is the development of a conceptual model for the contextual and practical integration of missional spirituality in Christian education, aiming to bridge the gap between theoretical understanding and practical spiritual formation.  

This study analyzes the mediating role of Friendly Leadership in transforming church culture from Performative Spirituality to Oikos Theology. Performative spirituality, which measures self-worth through performance and ritual, creates a hierarchical and oppressive church environment. This crisis demands a theological shift towards Oikos, a vision of the church as God's holistic, relational household that is responsible for the community and the environment. Through qualitative literature study methods, it was found that Friendly Leadership is a key mediator. This model, based on Christ's hospitality and friendship (John 15:15), serves a dual purpose: First, it dismantles performative spirituality by building psychological safety, reducing fear, and encouraging authentic vulnerability. Second, it effectively builds an Oikos culture by encouraging congregational participation (ownership) and expanding the church's focus from internal affairs to socio-ecological concerns. In conclusion, Friendly Leadership is a vital practical bridge for realizing healthy and inclusive cultural transformation for the 21st-century church.

Organic church and church management are often viewed as two opposing approaches: one emphasizes spiritual vitality and relational community life, while the other focuses on structure, planning, and organizational sustainability. This study argues that these approaches need not be placed in tension; rather, they can be integrated into a coherent and holistic framework of ministry. Using a descriptive qualitative approach through literature analysis, this research explores how the concept of the organic church in New Testament ecclesiology can be integrated with key principles of modern church management. Insights from Bonhoeffer (1954) on communal life, Erickson (1998) on the nature of the body of Christ, and Tomatala (2014) on congregational development provide the foundational basis for this integrative model. The findings indicate that the organic church contributes life, relational depth, and the dynamic work of the Holy Spirit, whereas church management offers direction, coordination, and the structural space needed for spiritual gifts to function. Together, these dimensions produce a living structure that is flexible, relational, theological, and accountable. The study concludes that the contemporary church requires structures that support life rather than replace it.

This article highlights the important role of catechism in developing the faith of young Catholics in the modern era. This study uses a theological analytical discourse methodology to analyze the role of catechism as a medium for building faith. Catechesis is a means used by the Church to communicate the teachings of faith to the people. Through catechesis, the Church can provide effective accompaniment of faith to young people. This study focuses on the problems faced by young people today. They are the next generation of the Church who need special attention because they are very vulnerable to being influenced by the fast and swift currents of modernity. Therefore, an effective assistance effort is needed for them. The research findings show that young people, who are in a period of searching for identity, tend to get bored easily and are quickly satisfied. In this context, catechesis as a form of faith formation is an effective choice and responsive to the lifestyle of today's youth. Through catechesis, young people can gain a deeper understanding of the teachings of the faith, strengthen their relationship with God and develop a strong Christian identity. Digital catechesis, which combines technology with messages of faith, can be a relevant and attractive medium for young people. In conclusion, digital catechesis has a significant role in developing the faith of young Christians. In facing the challenges of modern times, the Church needs to use catechesis as an effective strategy to assist young people in strengthening their faith. By utilizing technology and adapting the right content, digital catechism can be an effective tool in forming a young generation who are firm in their faith and ready to face the changing times.    

This journal explores the role of the Church Unity Body in strengthening the unity of Christian faith. The Church, as the body of Christ composed of various members from diverse backgrounds and traditions, is called to unite in one faith, one teaching, and one way of life aligned with the teachings of Christ. This unity is crucial for maintaining harmony within the community of believers and for addressing social and theological challenges in the modern world.The role of the Church Unity Body is evident through Bible teaching based on enduring truth, participation in sacraments such as Holy Communion and Baptism, as well as collaboration among churches in social service and mission. In this context, the church functions not only as a place of worship but also as a community that supports spiritual growth and the well-being of its members. The unity of Christian faith requires mutual respect, forgiveness, and humility among church members. By strengthening this unity, the church can provide a clearer testimony to the world, demonstrating that in Christ, differences can be reconciled in love that transcends all. This article also highlights the importance of the church’s role in building a unity of faith that goes beyond denominational boundaries, within the framework of ecumenism, to realize the wholeness of the body of Christ and bring about transformation in the world.

This article highlights the important role of catechism in developing the faith of young Catholics in the modern era. This study uses a theological analytical discourse methodology to analyze the role of catechism as a medium for building faith. Catechesis is a means used by the Church to communicate the teachings of faith to the people. Through catechesis, the Church can provide effective accompaniment of faith to young people. This study focuses on the problems faced by young people today. They are the next generation of the Church who need special attention because they are very vulnerable to being influenced by the fast and swift currents of modernity. Therefore, an effective assistance effort is needed for them. The research findings show that young people, who are in a period of searching for identity, tend to get bored easily and are quickly satisfied. In this context, catechesis as a form of faith formation is an effective choice and responsive to the lifestyle of today's youth. Through catechesis, young people can gain a deeper understanding of the teachings of the faith, strengthen their relationship with God and develop a strong Christian identity. Digital catechesis, which combines technology with messages of faith, can be a relevant and attractive medium for young people. In conclusion, digital catechesis has a significant role in developing the faith of young Christians. In facing the challenges of modern times, the Church needs to use catechesis as an effective strategy to assist young people in strengthening their faith. By utilizing technology and adapting the right content, digital catechism can be an effective tool in forming a young generation who are firm in their faith and ready to face the changing times.    

This journal explores the role of the Church Unity Body in strengthening the unity of Christian faith. The Church, as the body of Christ composed of various members from diverse backgrounds and traditions, is called to unite in one faith, one teaching, and one way of life aligned with the teachings of Christ. This unity is crucial for maintaining harmony within the community of believers and for addressing social and theological challenges in the modern world.The role of the Church Unity Body is evident through Bible teaching based on enduring truth, participation in sacraments such as Holy Communion and Baptism, as well as collaboration among churches in social service and mission. In this context, the church functions not only as a place of worship but also as a community that supports spiritual growth and the well-being of its members. The unity of Christian faith requires mutual respect, forgiveness, and humility among church members. By strengthening this unity, the church can provide a clearer testimony to the world, demonstrating that in Christ, differences can be reconciled in love that transcends all. This article also highlights the importance of the church’s role in building a unity of faith that goes beyond denominational boundaries, within the framework of ecumenism, to realize the wholeness of the body of Christ and bring about transformation in the world.

This study aims to map the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats (SWOT) of each village within Awangpone Subdistrict to formulate a strategic model for enhancing the local economy in alignment with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 2030. Employing a qualitative field research design, the study integrates interdisciplinary, theological, and development economics approaches. Data were collected through questionnaires, interviews, direct observation, and documentation. The analysis follows Miles and Huberman’s interactive model, encompassing data reduction, data display, and conclusion drawing. The SWOT analysis reveals that the coordinates fall within Quadrant I, indicating that strengths outweigh weaknesses and opportunities surpass threats. Accordingly, the recommended strategy is the Strength-Opportunity (S-O) approach, which emphasizes leveraging internal strengths to capitalize on external opportunities. This strategy is deemed most effective for stimulating local economic growth and accelerating SDG achievement. Internal constraints identified include underutilized tourism potential and limited access to sharia-compliant financing mechanisms. External threats comprise weak partnership collaborations and limited foreign investment engagement. While several SDG targets—such as education and community participation—have shown promising progress, others remain underdeveloped, particularly in infrastructure development and equitable access to justice for rural populations. The findings underscore the importance of context-sensitive, multi-sectoral strategies that integrate local wisdom, theological values, and economic principles. The proposed strategic model offers a practical roadmap for village-level economic empowerment, contributing to inclusive and sustainable development. This research provides actionable insights for policymakers, development practitioners, and local stakeholders seeking to optimize village potential and foster resilience in rural economies.

This study is motivated by the importance of prayer and fasting practices in the Christian tradition, which are increasingly marginalized in the midst of modern secularism and individualism. The purpose of this study is to analyze the concept of prayer and fasting based on the principles in the Book of Esther and to examine its implications for the formation of contemporary Christian spirituality. This research employs a literature review method by examining biblical texts and contemporary theological literature to identify the characteristics of prayer and fasting that are pleasing to God. The results of the study indicate that the practice of prayer and fasting in the Book of Esther is not merely ritualistic, but an expression of faith, self-denial, and communal solidarity that leads to personal transformation and strengthened social sensitivity. The implication of this study is that the principles of prayer and fasting in the Book of Esther can serve as a model for the spiritual formation of the modern church, fostering intimacy with God and a commitment to addressing surrounding social issues. These findings contribute to the development of practical theology and contemporary Christian spirituality studies.

This study delves into the philosophical and theological core of the concept of ownership in Islamic economics, a paradigm fundamentally distinct from capitalism and socialism. We uncover the essence of ownership as a divine trust, categorized into individual, public, and state domains. Our findings demonstrate how each type of ownership is governed by clear boundaries and rights, tightly integrated with social responsibility to achieve universal well-being and distributive justice. This study also examines the dynamic harmonization between private and public ownership, achieved through vital instruments like zakat, infaq, sadaqah, and productive waqf, as well as the crucial role of government in providing public goods. Despite facing significant challenges such as the dominance of the global capitalist economy and low sharia literacy, we highlight digitalization as a strategic opportunity to boost the efficiency, transparency, and inclusion of sharia finance. This opportunity holds substantial potential to strengthen the harmonization of ownership within the broader Islamic economic ecosystem. In short, a deep understanding of this Islamic concept of ownership is key to formulating more just and balanced economic policies and community development in today's rapidly evolving modern era.

This research is motivated by the low attendance and involvement of church youth in spiritual activities, as well as the weak Christian character that should be the basis of their lives. The purpose of this study is to analyze the impact of the service learning approach by IAKN Tarutung students on character development and increasing participation of Naposo Bulung youth at HKBP Maranatha Ressort Cinta Damai. This research is based on the theory of service learning (Eyler & Giles, 1999), experiential learning (Kolb, 1984), and the concept of sense of belonging (Etzioni, 1991) which emphasizes the importance of emotional involvement and critical reflection in the learning and service process. The method used is a descriptive qualitative approach with data collection techniques through observation, in-depth interviews, and documentation, which were conducted for three months. The results of the study showed that the service learning program had a significant influence in increasing the attendance of youth from an average of 14 to 25 people per week, as well as fostering positive characters such as responsibility, discipline, and social concern. Students not only act as implementers of activities, but also as spiritual mentors and spiritual friends, who form authentic and contextual relationships with teenagers. The implications of this study confirm that service learning is an effective approach in the formation of church teenagers because it combines aspects of direct service with spiritual and academic reflection. Therefore, it is recommended that this approach be integrated more systematically into the curriculum of higher theological education and used as a model of sustainable service in the church community.

This student service activity aims to increase awareness of the young people of the HKI Aek Raso Church regarding the cleanliness and health of the church environment through a participatory approach. The main problem raised was the young generation's low awareness of the importance of keeping places of worship clean. Students from the Christian Education Management and Christian Religious Education Study Program at IAKN Tarutung actively involve youth in mutual cooperation activities, reflective discussions, and the preparation of routine cleaning schedules. This approach does not only focus on physical actions, but also character and theological education which emphasizes that cleanliness is part of the testimony of faith. The results of the service show an increase in youth initiative and responsibility in protecting the church environment. Apart from creating positive behavioral changes, this activity also strengthens social relations between congregations. It can be concluded that participatory based service is effective in forming a culture of sustainable hygiene care and strengthening the spirituality of the church community

This article explores the Qur'anic perspective on contemporary ecological issues, particularly in the context of the environmental crisis in Banten Province, Indonesia. Using a thematic and tafsir ilmi (interpretation) approach, this qualitative literature-based study analyzes Qur'anic verses related to nature and resources, such as QS. Al-A'raf: 56, QS. Al-Baqarah: 60, QS. An-Nahl: 10–11, and QS. Al-Anbiya: 30. This article integrates the values ​​of revelation with modern ecological thought to understand ecological responsibility in Islam and its relevance to local environmental challenges, including the clean water crisis caused by deforestation and pollution. This study also highlights local initiatives such as the Banten Bebersih movement as an example of the implementation of Qur'anic values ​​in environmental conservation efforts. The research findings show that the Qur'an not only prohibits environmental degradation and emphasizes the importance of balance (mizan), but also provides theological and ethical foundations for sustainable natural resource management and equitable distribution. This article concludes that the integration of Islamic studies and environmental science offers a comprehensive and relevant ecological paradigm to address environmental challenges in the modern era.

Christian Religious Education (CRE) not only functions as a means of delivering theological teachings, but also as a strategic medium in developing students' soft skills. This article aims to explore how Christian moral values ​​such as love, honesty, empathy, and justice can be integrated into learning practices to shape students' character and interpersonal skills. Through a qualitative-descriptive approach, this study collected data through observation, interviews, and documentation studies. The results show that PAK, through activities such as group discussions, social services, spiritual reflection, and project-based learning, contributes significantly to developing students' communication, leadership, cooperation, and emotional intelligence skills. The role of teachers as facilitators and moral role models is a key factor in the success of this process. Thus, PAK not only enriches the spiritual aspect, but also prepares students to become resilient and integral individuals in social life. The integration of faith values ​​with life skills is a strong foundation in forming a generation of Christians who are able to answer the challenges of the 21st century.

The phenomenon of religious hijrah (spiritual migration) among Generation Z (Gen Z) has emerged as a noteworthy social trend in recent years. This study aims to explore the religious tendencies of Gen Z through a phenomenological approach, focusing on two prominent currents of Islamic preaching: Sufism and Salafism. Employing a qualitative method, in-depth interviews were conducted with selected Gen Z individuals actively engaged in Sufi- and Salafi-oriented preaching communities. The findings reveal that their choice of religious orientation is not solely influenced by theological aspects, but also shaped by social, psychological, and personal spiritual factors. Sufism tends to appeal to those seeking inner peace and spiritual experience, while Salafism attracts individuals who yearn for religious certainty and a firm Islamic identity. These results reflect the complex and diverse nature of Gen Z’s religiosity, emphasizing the need for contextual and humanistic preaching strategies. This study hopes to contribute to a deeper understanding of young Muslims' religious patterns and the development of more relevant da'wah approaches in the digital age.

This research discusses Process Theology as a theological perspective that understands God and the world as aspects of a process that continues to change and develop. In the midst of a diverse and diverse modern society, Process Theology provides an inclusive framework to facilitate positive interfaith dialogue. Through a literature review, this research explains the main principles of Process Theology and how their application can support the creation of harmony and tolerance between various religious groups. This approach emphasizes the importance of respecting diversity and universal values ​​that exist in various religious traditions. The findings of this research indicate that Process Theology can be an effective foundation for reducing divisions due to religion and strengthening solidarity in society. This study contributes to the development of theological thinking that is relevant to the challenges of plurality and diversity in the modern era.

The obligation to seek knowledge holds a central position in Islamic law, grounded in strong normative and theological principles. Islam classifies the pursuit of knowledge as fardhu ‘ain (an individual duty) for essential religious and worldly knowledge, and fardhu kifayah (a collective duty) for broader societal needs. This article explores the legal foundations of this obligation in Islamic jurisprudence and examines its relevance in the context of contemporary education. Using a normative-juridical method, this study analyzes primary Islamic sources such as the Qur’an, Hadith, and the views of classical and modern scholars. The findings show that Islam does not treat knowledge merely as a tool for personal development, but as a moral and spiritual responsibility. In modern educational systems, these values remain highly relevant, particularly in addressing ethical decline and the loss of purpose in learning. This article recommends the integration of Islamic legal perspectives on knowledge into educational curricula to help restore the spiritual and moral aims

This article analyzes the Pentecostal charismatic pedagogy of Peter Hocken in the context of Christian Religious Education (CRE), focusing on the integration of the Holy Spirit's experience and a transformative learning approach. Through theological and pedagogical studies, this research examines how Hocken emphasizes the role of spiritual gifts, worship, and faith community as central elements in Christian Religious Education (CRE). Unlike the traditional cognitive-doctrinal model of Christian education, Hocken's approach offers a holistic experiential learning paradigm. This article also explores the challenges of its implementation, including criticism from a conservative theological perspective regarding the potential for subjectivity and the lack of emphasis on systematic doctrine. Furthermore, this research highlights the relevance of Hocken's pedagogy in the context of the global church, particularly in the Global South and Messianic Jewish communities, where charismatic dimensions and local cultures interact. The findings indicate that although this model provides a new dynamic for CRE, its success depends on the educators' ability to balance charismatic freedom with a measurable learning structure. This article concludes that Hocken's thinking not only enriches the discourse on Charismatic/Pentecostal education but also broadly challenges the church to rethink the approach to CRE in the contemporary era.