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This study examines the eschatological. Dimensions present in the encyclical Laudato Si’ and their implications for ecological responsibility within the Christian faith. The increasing global ecological crisis necessitates a serious theological reflection capable of grounding believers’ engagement with environmental issues in their faith convictions. Eschatology, as the doctrinal framework concerning ultimate realities, addresses not merely the end of individual human existence but, more profoundly, the hope for the renewal and transformation of all creation in God. The research employs a qualitative method with a library research approach, drawing primarily on ecclesiastical documents, Sacred Scripture, and relevant theological literature. The findings demonstrate that Laudato Si’ integrates a robust eschatological vision, wherein the promise of “a new heaven and a new earth” constitutes the theological foundation for human responsibility toward creation. Contrary to interpretations that treat eschatological hope as a rationale for passivity or disengagement from the world, Laudato Si’ affirms that such hope actively motivates believers to participate in the care and preservation of the environment as an integral expression of their faith calling. This study concludes that eschatology possesses genuine practical relevance for everyday Christian life, particularly in cultivating ecological awareness. Faith in the ultimate fulfillment of God’s salvific plan, far from diminishing present-day responsibilities, intensifies the moral obligation to treat the earth as a “common home” entrusted to humanity.

This study examines the theological tension between devotion to God and the influence of mammon within the context of church ministry, as reflected in Matius 6:24. The research aims to analyze how materialism shapes attitudes, motivations, and practices in ecclesiastical service, particularly in relation to financial and administrative responsibilities. The method employed is a literature analysis combined with a phenomenological approach, allowing for an integration of biblical teachings and lived ministry experiences. The findings reveal that mammon is not merely a material entity but a competing spiritual force that demands human loyalty, often subtly influencing the orientation of ministry. Materialism, therefore, emerges as a critical challenge to ministerial integrity, especially in contexts involving financial management. The novelty of this study lies in its integration of theological reflection with empirical ministry experience, emphasizing that integrity in church service is not only tested in spiritual expressions but also in the handling of material resources. This study contributes to practical theology by offering a contextual understanding of how faithfulness to God must be maintained amidst the persistent tension between spiritual calling and material demands.

This study discusses the dialogue between Christian faith and Karl Marx’s atheism as well as its relevance to the lives of contemporary Christians. The rise of atheism in modern society is closely related to secularization, scientific progress, social inequality, and criticism of religious institutions that are considered unable to answer humanitarian problems. Karl Marx viewed religion as an ideological instrument that often legitimized oppression and alienated humans from their true existence. Through his famous statement that “religion is the opium of the people,” Marx criticized forms of religiosity that merely comfort human suffering without striving for social liberation. This research employs a qualitative method with a literature review approach by examining various philosophical, theological, and social sources related to Marx’s atheism and the Catholic Church’s teachings. The findings reveal that Marx’s criticism of religion should not merely be understood as a rejection of God, but also as a moral challenge for the Church to continuously renew itself in carrying out its mission amid social realities. In response, the Catholic Church, especially through the teachings of the Second Vatican Council, views atheism not only as a doctrinal challenge but also as an opportunity for dialogue and self-reflection. The study concludes that authentic Christian faith is not an escape from worldly realities but a spiritual force that encourages believers to uphold justice, solidarity, and human dignity. Therefore, Marx’s criticism can become a reflective instrument for Christians to embody a more contextual, humanistic, and socially engaged faith in the modern world.

Christian education plays a strategic role in shaping the faith, character, and spiritual life of learners however, learning processes often remain theoretical, limiting the internalization of faith values. This study aims to examine the concept of theological reflection using the Sharing Christian Praxis (SCP) method in Christian education, explore its application, and analyze its relevance to contemporary life. This research employs a qualitative approach with a literature study method, drawing on relevant books, scientific journals, and academic sources. The findings indicate that theological reflection is a fundamental process in Christian education that enables learners to interpret life experiences in the light of God’s Word, resulting in authentic faith transformation. The SCP method, developed by Thomas H. Groome, provides an operational framework for implementing this theological reflection through systematic stages: sharing life experiences, critical reflection, engagement with Scripture, dialogue, and commitment to action. The relationship between theological reflection and SCP is integral and synergistic; theological reflection provides direction and depth, while SCP operationalizes this process dialogically and contextually, the application of SCP in Christian education has proven effective in increasing learner engagement and connecting faith with daily life. It is recommended that Christian educators implement SCP as a primary learning method, and that educational institutions integrate it into their curriculum development strategies.

This study aims to examine the theological meaning of love for the poor in the apostolic exhortation Dilexi Te and to reflect on its relevance within the context of Indonesia’s pluralistic society. The research employs a qualitative method with a literature study approach, using Dilexi Te as the primary source, supported by relevant theological and social literature. The findings reveal that love for the poor in Dilexi Te is not merely a charitable act but constitutes the core of Christian faith, inseparable from one’s relationship with God. This love is integral, encompassing spiritual, moral, and structural dimensions, and calls for active engagement in promoting social justice and addressing the root causes of poverty. Theologically, solidarity with the poor is grounded in the mystery of Christ’s incarnation and the principle of the preferential option for the poor. In the Indonesian context of diversity, this teaching holds strong relevance as a foundation for fostering interreligious solidarity, strengthening social cohesion, and encouraging both the Church and society to work toward a more just, inclusive, and humane social order. Therefore, this study highlights that theological reflection on love for the poor is not merely normative but also carries concrete social implications in a pluralistic society.

The rapid development of digital technology and artificial intelligence has transformed human life in significant ways while simultaneously fostering a reductionist understanding of the human person based on productivity, efficiency, and technical capability. This phenomenon poses serious challenges to the understanding of human dignity and identity. This study aims to examine the concept of the human person according to Pope Leo XIV in the encyclical Magnifica Humanitas and to analyze its relevance for contemporary society. The research employs a qualitative method with a literature review approach, drawing primarily on the encyclical Magnifica Humanitas and related scholarly sources. The findings reveal that Pope Leo XIV understands the human person as created in the image and likeness of God (imago Dei), possessing an inherent dignity that does not depend on ability, social status, or productivity. This understanding is grounded in Christological and Trinitarian foundations, which affirm the human person as a relational being called to communion with God and others through love and self-giving. The encyclical also offers a critical response to technocratic paradigms, transhumanism, and posthumanism, which risk reducing human beings to technological objects or economic instruments. In the context of contemporary society, Pope Leo XIV’s thought provides a theological and ethical foundation for the development of human-centered technology while reinforcing respect for human dignity in social, educational, economic, and ecclesial life. This study concludes that the anthropological reflection presented in Magnifica Humanitas offers a significant contribution to addressing the human challenges emerging in the digital and artificial intelligence era.

Jesus’ declaration “I am the gate” in John 10:7-9 is a rich theological metaphor that holds significant meaning for both Christological reflection and contemporary pastoral ministry. This article aims to examine the meaning of this statement through a biblical exegetical approach and pastoral theology. The research employs a qualitative method based on literary analysis, including a study of the Greek text and a contextual reading of the Gospel of John. The findings indicate that the metaphor of the “gate” emphasizes Jesus’ identity as the sole way to salvation and as the source of abundant life for believers. Moreover, this image highlights Christ’s pastoral function in granting access to a living relationship between God and humanity while providing protection and guidance for His flock. The pastoral implications of this text invite church ministers to imitate Christ as the gate by fostering openness, offering spiritual security, and promoting a liberating form of pastoral care. Thus, John 10:7–9 not only conveys profound theological insights but also offers a relevant pastoral paradigm for the Church’s mission in the contemporary context.

This paper attempts to explore the theological meaning of the Book of Job, particularly in the context of Job's suffering and God's justice. The author focuses this writing on understanding faith in suffering, with the aim of providing a deep interpretation of faith in suffering. The Book of Job is part of the Wisdom Books group consisting of 42 chapters, which discuss the suffering experienced by Job himself, and how he responded to the trials given to him by Satan with God's permission. This writing uses qualitative methods and a library research approach. This paper explains that the Book of Job provides a complex picture of the relationship between human suffering and God's justice. The main finding in this writing is highlighting the urgency of deep reflection on trust, tests of faith, and the meaning of life, leading to the conclusion that suffering is interpreted as an instrument of refining faith in God, then guiding believers towards His will and providence. Therefore, the conclusion of this paper is that suffering is interpreted as an instrument of priesthood of God, which then guides humans who believe in God's will and providence.

The phenomenon of megachurches represents one of the most significant developments in contemporary Christianity, reflecting shifts in church organizational structures, leadership patterns, and engagement with modern culture. Despite their rapid growth, megachurches have drawn criticism, particularly regarding reliance on charismatic leadership, the prominence of prosperity theology narratives, and the potential weakening of communal dimensions in church life. This study aims to analyze the megachurch phenomenon through an interdisciplinary approach that integrates the sociology of religion and ecclesiological reflection. Employing a qualitative method, this research utilizes literature analysis and a phenomenological approach to understand leadership dynamics and religious practices within large church contexts. The findings indicate that megachurch growth is driven by a combination of charismatic leadership, complex organizational systems, and adaptation to contemporary culture, including digitalization and religious consumerism. However, this model also generates tension with New Testament ecclesiological principles that emphasize participatory community and servant leadership. This study contributes to practical theology by offering an integrative analysis and provides a reflective basis for churches to evaluate their organizational forms and leadership practices in light of foundational theological principles.  

The development of digital culture has significantly changed the communication, relationships, and spirituality of the younger generation, requiring the Church to reconsider its catechetical methods in the context of social media. This article aims to analyze digital catechesis as a space where faith can develop for the younger generation, by examining the theological foundations, the dynamics of digital culture, and the challenges and models for its development. This study adopts a literature review method by conducting a systematic review of Church Magisterial documents, theological works, and academic research related to the religiosity of the younger generation in the digital environment. The research findings indicate that social media can become a place of faith encounter if catechesis focuses not only on the delivery of religious content but also offers a relational experience that is dialogical, participatory, and community-oriented. However, there are serious challenges such as the risk of superficiality, spiritual consumption, the dominance of algorithms, the commodification of religious content, and the issue of doctrinal authority in the digital space. Therefore, the development of digital catechesis must be based on Christocentrism, fidelity to Church teaching, and a combination of online guidance and concrete sacramental life. With an approach that takes context and reflection into account, digital catechesis has the potential to be a significant and transformative tool of evangelization for young people in the evolving culture of social media.

Studies on Eucharistic Adoration have predominantly emphasized its role as a personal devotional practice and individual spirituality, while its implications for Catholic Religious Education as a space for faith formation remain underexplored. This gap indicates the need for a theological-pedagogical reflection that connects Eucharistic Adoration with the process of faith education, particularly in the context of young people. This study aims to examine Eucharistic Adoration as an expression of Sacramentum Caritatis and its relevance as a formative space within Catholic Religious Education. The research employs a qualitative approach through a library research method, analyzing Church documents, theological works, and relevant academic literature on the Eucharist, faith education, and psycho-spiritual well-being. The findings reveal that Eucharistic Adoration is not merely a liturgical or devotional practice but also holds significant pedagogical value. It can be understood as a contemplative space that enables young people to experience a personal relationship with Christ, reflect on their inner experiences, and deepen their awareness of God’s transformative love. Furthermore, this study indicates that Eucharistic Adoration has the potential to support psycho-spiritual well-being by providing moments of silence, self-acceptance, and meaning-making in the light of faith. These findings highlight that integrating Eucharistic Adoration into Catholic Religious Education can enrich faith learning processes and help young people live their faith in a more personal and holistic manner. This study contributes to theological and educational discourse by positioning Eucharistic Adoration as a relevant practice of faith formation within contemporary Catholic education.

Faith is often understood as a personal and spiritual relationship with God; however, in Catholic theology, faith also possesses an inherent social and political dimension. This study examines the relationship between Christian faith and citizenship through a theological reflection on the political participation of Catholics in Indonesia. The research aims to demonstrate that faith and political engagement are not separate spheres but mutually enriching dimensions of the Christian vocation to promote justice, solidarity, and the common good. Employing a qualitative method with a literature review approach, this study analyzes biblical foundations, the teachings of the Second Vatican Council, and the Church’s social doctrine, alongside contemporary discussions on political participation. The findings indicate that political participation can be understood as a concrete expression of faith and moral responsibility, particularly through civic engagement, political education, advocacy, and social involvement. Nevertheless, many Catholics remain passive due to negative perceptions of politics, corruption, and a lack of political formation. The study also highlights the importance of maintaining the Church’s moral autonomy while encouraging lay participation in practical politics. In the Indonesian context, the principle “100% Catholic, 100% Indonesian” reflects an integrated identity in which religious commitment strengthens civic responsibility. Ultimately, this research affirms that authentic faith necessarily leads to active citizenship, where Catholics contribute prophetically and ethically to the transformation of society and the realization of the common good.

This article examines the theological thought of Saint Cyprian of Carthage, one of the third-century Church Fathers, within the context of the Church’s situation in his time, which was marked by profound struggles of faith, particularly the experience of persecution. The focus of the discussion is directed toward the historical and pastoral conditions that shaped Cyprian’s views on the unity of the Church, episcopal authority, and the validity of the sacrament of baptism. Accordingly, this article raises several key questions: What historical background formed Cyprian’s thinking on these three concepts? What were the central ideas he developed regarding ecclesial unity, episcopal authority, and baptism? And how are his ideas relevant to the Church’s teaching, especially in light of the Second Vatican Council? Using a historical and hermeneutical approach, this article traces Cyprian’s life background as well as his pastoral-theological responses to the concrete situations faced by Christians in his time. In the context of the post-persecution crisis, Cyprian played a significant role in addressing internal divisions within the Church, particularly debates concerning the readmission of the lapsi (those who had apostatized). From these struggles, it becomes evident how Cyprian firmly articulated the role of bishops as successors of the apostles and emphasized the sacrament of baptism as the legitimate gateway into ecclesial communion. Based on the historical background of Cyprian’s thought and these three central themes, the article then examines the contribution of Cyprian’s theology to the teachings of the Church as formulated in the Second Vatican Council. Thus, Cyprian’s thought is understood not only as a foundation of early ecclesiology, but also as a living source of faith reflection that remains relevant for the contemporary Church in responding to the dynamics and challenges of the modern age Keywords: Cyprian of Carthage, ecclesiology, unity of the Church, episcopal authority, sacrament of baptism, Second Vatican Council.

This study aims to interpret the theological meaning of the practice of sharing in Acts 2:44–47 in relation to the internal economic life of the congregation. The study is motivated by a prevailing understanding of diakonia that tends to position charitable service as an additional activity of the church, without sufficiently relating it to the dynamics of communal fellowship and shared life within the faith community. Employing a qualitative approach through library research, this study conducts a biblical-historical analysis of Acts 2:44–47. The findings indicate that the practice of sharing in the early Christian community represents a form of economic solidarity rooted in communal fellowship and integrated into the congregation’s relational life, rather than merely an incidental act of charity. This economic solidarity possesses theological and contextual limitations and therefore cannot be applied literally to contemporary church contexts without critical reflection. This study contributes to the development of practical theological reflection by positioning the relationship between faith, fellowship, and the economic life of the congregation as an integral component of the understanding of diakonia.  

This article theologically analyzes the Christian doctrine of creation, highlighting the nature of God as Creator and its implications for human understanding of the world, the self, and the relationship with God. Creation is understood not merely as the initial event of the cosmos but also as God’s continuous act of sustaining, preserving, and directing all creation toward His divine purpose. Through a study of biblical texts and the reflections of classical theologians such as Augustine, Aquinas, and Calvin, this paper explores the concepts of creatio ex nihilo, the orderliness of creation, and the dignity of humanity as the image of God (imago Dei). This article also outlines how the doctrine of creation provides an ethical foundation for ecological responsibility, the sanctity of life, and respect for others in the context of contemporary challenges marked by moral crises and environmental degradation. The analysis shows that the doctrine of creation remains relevant for today’s faith, emphasizing that the world derives its meaning from God and that humanity is called to participate with God in caring for creation. Thus, this study offers a comprehensive understanding of the significance of the doctrine of creation for Christian faith and ethical practice in contemporary life.  

Ecclesiology and the church's calling amidst the development of the times marked by increasingly dynamic social, cultural, technological, and lifestyle changes. The background of the problem in this paper departs from the fact that the church often faces challenges in maintaining its theological identity while responding to the demands of the modern era, so that a contextual and relevant understanding of ecclesiology is needed. The research method used is a qualitative method with a library research approach, namely reviewing and analyzing various library sources such as the Bible, theological books, scientific journals, and church documents related to ecclesiology and the role of the church. The purpose of writing this article is to re-examine the nature of the church from a theological perspective and formulate the church's calling to remain faithful to God's mission amidst the changing times. The benefits of this paper are expected to provide theoretical contributions to the development of church theology studies and become material for practical reflection for the church in carrying out its duties of fellowship, service, witness, and diakonia in a relevant, contextual, and responsible manner in modern society.

The development of modern education demands that teachers play a broader role beyond merely delivering subject matter, including building professional reputation, credibility, and positive influence on students, colleagues, parents, and society. For Christian Religious Education teachers, personal branding has a deeper dimension because they also serve as role models and ambassadors of Christian values. This study aims to describe the formation of personal branding among Christian Religious Education teachers based on spiritual and theological values, as well as its impact on teaching and student character development. The method used is descriptive qualitative through a literature study of books, journals, notes, and relevant reports, with narrative analysis to illustrate the practices and values that shape teachers’ personal branding. The findings indicate that the personal branding of Christian Religious Education teachers is an integration of professional competence, personal integrity, and Christian values, encompassing authenticity, consistency, professionalism, spiritual and moral role modeling, inspirational and communicative abilities, adaptation to technology, and positive relationships with students and the community. Spiritual and theological values such as Christian love, integrity, humility, patience, justice, service, and commitment to God’s Word form the main foundation that strengthens teachers’ credibility, motivates students, and establishes them as living examples of Christian life. Personal branding for Christian Religious Education teachers is not merely an image or popularity, but a real reflection of faith, character, and daily behavior consistent with Christian teachings, thus supporting effective learning, student character formation, and the teacher’s reputation as an authentic, inspiring, and professional educator.  

Contemporary church ministry is often trapped in a seasonal pattern, with increased activity only during major events like Christmas and Easter, while stagnating at other times. This phenomenon indicates a fundamental problem in leadership patterns that are not poverty-oriented. This article analyzes the roots of seasonal church ministry through a qualitative-descriptive approach and theological reflection based on Osmer's framework. Literature reviews by Barna, Maxwell, Banks & Ledbetter, as well as the leadership principles of Jesus Christ, show that seasonality is eliminated by reactive leadership that lacks a long-term vision, minimal spiritual training, and a weak ministerial cadre system. As a solution, this article offers a sustainable leadership model that emphasizes a year-round discipleship vision, ministerial training and regeneration, systematic ministry evaluation, and the spiritual example of leaders. This model is believed to help churches experience stable growth, establish a consistent ministry rhythm, and present relevant evidence to the world. Thus, sustainable leadership is a strategic and theological approach to addressing seasonal ministry and strengthening the mission of the church today.

This study examines the role of digital church music as a medium for evangelism and discipleship within the digital ecosystem. It employs a mixed methods approach using a sequential explanatory design, in which quantitative data collection is followed by qualitative exploration. Quantitative data were gathered through an online survey of at least 200 respondents to measure the intensity of digital worship music consumption, perceived gospel understanding, faith reflection, and spiritual engagement. Qualitative data were obtained through in-depth interviews with 15–20 key informants and digital content analysis of worship songs, service videos, and social media interactions. The findings indicate that digital church music contributes to strengthening gospel understanding, encouraging faith reflection, and expanding discipleship practices through online spaces. A moderate positive correlation between music consumption intensity and spiritual engagement suggests that music functions as a contextual medium for faith formation. This study highlights the importance of adaptive theological and pastoral strategies for church music ministry in the digital era.

This study aims to implement the Christian Religious Education and Character Education (PAK) teaching module in grade V of SDN 1 Sabaru, Palangka Raya, with a focus on the topic “Jesus Was Crucified, Died, and Risen for Me.” The learning process is designed to support students’ spiritual and character development through an interactive and project-based approach. Teaching methods include group discussions, the use of miniature media as visual learning aids, collaborative activities, and guided reflection on Christian values relevant to students’ daily experiences. The results of classroom observations show that most students are active, enthusiastic, and involved in the learning process, able to understand the theological meaning of the crucifixion, death, and resurrection of Jesus, and apply the values of love, gratitude, and responsibility in everyday life. Obstacles found include a lack of self-confidence in some students and less optimal group dynamics during activities. These findings serve as important evaluation materials for improving the effectiveness of future learning implementation