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This research is motivated by the reality of ethnic and cultural diversity in congregation life which reflects the dynamics of a multicultural society, where differences in cultural identity have the potential to cause social friction if not managed wisely. This research uses a descriptive qualitative approach with normative studies, with data collection techniques through interviews, observations, and documentation of informants consisting of pastors, congregation councils, and presbyters. The theory used is Ralph Linton's role theory which explains how individuals carry out social functions according to their status in society. The results of the study indicate that the life of the GMIT Sion Oepura congregation is characterized by multicultural dynamics as seen from the diversity of ethnicities such as Timor, Rote, Sabu, Flores, and Alor which not only enriches church life through cultural expressions in worship and church activities, but also gives rise to symbolic friction between ethnic groups, such as the tendency for the dominance of certain cultural symbols and the emergence of group ego attitudes in several worship activities, for example in the celebration of Language and Culture Month. In this situation, religious leaders play a role as leaders who embrace diversity, mediators in managing potential conflicts, and social and moral role models for the congregation through sermons, pastoral guidance, and various service activities that involve the entire congregation without differentiating cultural backgrounds. Despite the existence of cultural differences and the tendency for certain symbolic dominance, religious leaders are able to manage this diversity normatively so that it does not develop into open conflict. This study concludes that the role of religious leaders is very important in strengthening social solidarity and maintaining harmony in multicultural congregations.

Divorce has become an increasingly common reality in Christian family life and poses serious challenges for the church in carrying out pastoral family ministry. Theologically, divorce stands in tension with Christian ethics, which views marriage as a sacred and covenantal institution established by God. This article aims to analyze Christian ethics regarding divorce from a biblical theological perspective and to examine its implications for family ministry within the context of Ketapang, West Kalimantan. This study employs a qualitative research method with a theological-normative and contextual approach through a literature review of biblical texts, theological books, and scholarly journals. The findings indicate that Scripture affirms marriage as God’s ideal will, while divorce is understood as a consequence of human sinfulness and relational brokenness. In the context of Ketapang, social, economic, and cultural factors contribute significantly to the vulnerability of families to divorce. Therefore, the church is called to develop a contextual family ministry that not only upholds Christian ethical norms but also embodies love, justice, forgiveness, and restoration for broken families. This article emphasizes that Christian ethics concerning divorce must be practiced pastorally and transformatively within the life of the local church.

This study aims to analyze the impact of the split and identify reconciliation efforts between the BNKP Jemaat Kasih Karunia and the BNKP Jemaat Hilifalagötanö in Tetegawa’ai Village, Mazo District, South Nias, using the Appreciative Inquiry (AI) method. The conflict between the two congregations began with differences of opinion regarding church construction and the selection of pastors, which led to the separation of the congregations in 2014. This study uses a mixed method approach, combining qualitative analysis through in-depth interviews with BPMJ, SNK, and the Head of the Commission, and quantitative analysis through questionnaires to 36 respondents. The results show that the majority of the congregations understand reconciliation as a process of restoring broken relationships, emphasizing values ​​such as making peace, forgiveness, brotherhood, as well as friendly, caring, and empathetic attitudes. Respondents consider reconciliation efforts very necessary, including through mediation, cooperation between congregations, and the wise involvement of leaders and government officials. Qualitative findings strengthen the quantitative results by confirming that appreciation for positive values, open dialogue, and active collaboration are key factors in the reconciliation process. This research confirms that the Appreciative Inquiry method is effective in rebuilding congregational harmony, strengthening fellowship, and providing a practical model for other church communities in managing similar conflicts.

The Holy Communion is one of the sacraments performed in the Toraja Church as a direct command from God for all who believe in Jesus Christ. Therefore, everyone, both adults and children, is required to participate as part of the Kingdom of God's family. This study aims to analyze parents' understanding of the practice of Holy Communion involving children in the Gasing Congregation of the Toraja Church. The research employs a qualitative approach with a descriptive method to explain parents' understanding of the meaning and practice of Holy Communion involving children. Data collection was conducted through in-depth interviews, field observation, and relevant literature review related to the research topic. The findings indicate that many parents still lack a proper understanding of the theological significance of Holy Communion, particularly when it involves children. Most parents simply follow the synod's decision without deeply understanding its theological foundation. Moreover, the church does not provide direct pastoral guidance to parents but merely reads out the meaning of Holy Communion during Sunday worship services, resulting in very limited comprehension among the congregation. Therefore, more intensive socialization and guidance from the church council to all congregation members, especially parents, is highly needed. This research is expected to contribute to the development of knowledge at IAKN Toraja and provide insights for readers, particularly congregants of the Toraja Church in general.

This study aims to examine Deuteronomy 22:13-30 using a hermeneutic approach and relate it to the current level of awareness of early marriage among Christian congregations. The method used was a qualitative literature study, with the Bible as the primary source, supplemented by various related theological literature. The results indicate that this section of the text contains important theological values, such as holiness, justice, responsibility, and respect for human dignity, especially women, in the context of marriage. Although this text originates from the patriarchal culture of ancient Israel, its principles remain relevant in today's context. Regarding the phenomenon of early marriage, it was found that this practice often occurs without adequate preparation, whether emotional, spiritual, or economic, and thus risks causing various problems in the household. Therefore, the church has a responsibility to raise congregational awareness through faith formation, premarital education, and contextual pastoral care. This study confirms that marriage is a life calling that requires maturity and serious commitment, not simply a solution to social problems.

This study examines the dynamics of church music regulation implementation in the congregation of the Adventist Secondary School – Surya Nusantara Adventist University (SLA-UASN) Pematangsiantar (September 2022–December 2025). The goal is to describe the implementation of the regulation in worship practices, address challenges, reveal congregational responses, and align local practices with the views of Ellen G. White and official SDA documents. The research employed a qualitative descriptive approach with a case study method; data were collected through in-depth interviews with 16 informants, participant observation, and documentation studies, then analyzed thematically using source triangulation. The results indicate that the regulation originates from church regulations (SDA Church Guidelines) and local policies, but is disseminated orally, resulting in differing understandings. There is intergenerational tension between supporters of traditional music (hymnals) and contemporary music that has not been bridged dialogically. Resistance from music ministers arises from inconsistent implementation and minimal involvement in policy development. Communication between music leaders and ministers remains weak, with no regular evaluation forum, resulting in a continued decline in the quality of music worship. This study concludes that effective music regulation requires clear written documentation, structured intergenerational dialogue, ongoing music theology education, and inclusive and participatory pastoral leadership.

This article critically examines the training program document for mentors of First Communion candidates at St. Paul Pringgolayan Parish as an institutional religious text. The study employs Peter L. Berger’s theory of the social construction of reality and Michel Foucault’s discourse analysis of power as its analytical framework. Using a qualitative interpretive method, the research conducts an in-depth textual analysis of the document’s narrative structure, normative language, actor relations, and mechanisms of legitimation. The findings reveal that the text is not merely a plan and report of pastoral activities; it also functions as an institutional apparatus that reproduces religious reality while shaping subjects of faith through pedagogical, ritual, and administrative systems. This article argues that pastoral documents can be understood as pastoral social technologies that operate through language to structure religious experience, regulate the distribution of authority, and instill norms of faith practice. These findings contribute to the sociology of religion by demonstrating how faith formation practices at the local level constitute a concrete locus of interaction between the construction of religious meaning and the operation of discursive power.

A faith-based marriage strengthening program is essential for building family resilience in urban congregations facing high divorce rates and declining marital quality. This community service activity aimed to revitalize the marital bonds of 22 couples in the Pria Sejati Bandung community and GPPS Agape Bandung congregation through the "Reborn Marriage" program. Using a participatory action research approach, a team of 12 facilitators implemented three main stages: initial coordination to identify needs and plan together with the community; an intensive one-day intervention consisting of teachings on grace, agape love, and divine purpose of marriage, along with testimony sharing, footwashing ritual, and gift giving; and a marriage commitment renewal ceremony. The results showed 100% attendance rate of all registered couples, active participation in every coaching session, and qualitative findings from focus group discussions including renewed spiritual intimacy, mutual forgiveness between spouses, and alignment of marital visions based on divine values. A total of 86% of couples expressed willingness to participate in regular follow-up mentoring, and local leaders emerged among participants who are ready to facilitate small groups after the program. Discussions confirmed that combining biblical teachings on agape love with experiential symbolic rituals can holistically transform marital relationships. This community-based intervention proves replicable in other local communities and churches in urban settings, especially those seeking to strengthen family resilience through integrated pastoral care and participatory action.

The development of globalization, digital technology, and social change has influenced the way young people understand and live out their faith. Secularism tends to place religion in the private sphere, so that religious values do not always become the basis for decision-making in daily life. This study aims to analyze the challenges of secularism to the formation of the identity of Catholic youth in the modern era and to formulate relevant religious education responses in addressing these dynamics. This research uses a qualitative approach with a literature study method that examines various scientific literature, Church documents, and research findings related to the phenomenon of secularism and the formation of the religious identity of Catholic youth. The results of the study indicate that secularism has a complex impact on the faith life of young people, including decreased participation in Church activities, the emergence of individualistic attitudes, and the tendency to view religion merely as a formal identity. However, on the other hand, the modern era also opens opportunities for young people to develop their faith creatively through the use of digital technology and involvement in faith communities. Therefore, Catholic religious education and pastoral accompaniment that are dialogical, contextual, and participatory are very important in helping Catholic youth integrate their faith into daily life. This study is expected to provide theoretical and practical contributions for educators and pastoral ministers in fostering the faith identity of Catholic youth in modern society.

This article examines the pastoral phenomenon among the faithful, who firmly believe in the truth and infallibility of the Scriptures without feeling the need to interpret or explain the texts themselves. Based on limited interviews conducted, this study finds that this phenomenon does not arise from a lack of faith but rather from the Church’s teaching that emphasizes the authority of the Scriptures without allowing space for personal interpretation. The results of these interviews are combined with patristic sources and modern theological discussions to delve deeper into the integration of the truth of the Scriptures into the daily practice of the faithful. A tendency toward clerical interpretation has been found to hinder the sensus fidei, or the communal sense of faith, leading to an exaggerated fear of possibly misinterpreting the Scriptures. Therefore, an inclusive pastoral approach is needed, including through digital and catechetical media, to encourage the faithful to engage with the Scriptures within the bounds of ecclesiastical unity. This aims to ensure that the faith of the faithful is not only a matter of belief but is also practiced with true and comprehensive understanding.

Young people today live in a digital culture that makes social media the main space for communicating, forming identities, and finding meaning in life. In such situations, catechesis needs to adjust itself to remain relevant and able to reach them effectively. The use of social media opens up opportunities for the Church to present catechesis that is more interactive, visual, and contextual through various forms such as short videos, infographics, live broadcasts, and online discussions. A qualitative approach through literary studies and indirect observation shows that social media can increase the involvement of young people in faith formation because it is flexible and easily accessible. However, the use of social media also presents pastoral challenges, such as the potential for superficiality of content and a lack of deep appreciation of faith. Therefore, critical assistance and integration between digital catechesis and real community life are needed so that the faith of young people is sustained and strengthened in the life of the Church.

Pastoral care within the Voice of Truth Gospel Church throughout North Sumatra has experienced a decline in quality in fostering the maturity of faith and the spiritual life of the congregation. The purpose of this study is to determine the extent to which emotional intelligence influences the quality of pastoral care within the Voice of Truth Gospel Church throughout North Sumatra. This study uses a quantitative approach. The data obtained were analyzed using simple linear regression techniques. This study proves that: Based on data reduction, it is known that the emotional intelligence of pastors, administrators, and servants of the Voice of Truth Gospel Church in the North Sumatra region is in the high category; Based on the results of data reduction, it is also known that the majority of respondents assess that pastoral care within the Voice of Truth Gospel Church throughout North Sumatra has been running quite effectively; Emotional Intelligence has a positive and significant effect on the variable of Pastoral Care Quality. This can be seen from the calculated t (8.857) > t table (1.65437) and Sig. (0.000) < 0.05, and based on the results of the coefficient of determination test, it is known that the Quality of Herding is influenced by the Emotional Intelligence variable with a value of 61.2% and the remaining 39.8% is influenced by other variables outside this study.

. The rapid development of artificial intelligence (AI) has brought significant changes in various fields, including education and church life. This study aims to examine the dynamics of the formation of prospective catechists in facing the challenges of AI use at the IPI Malang Pastoral College. This study used a qualitative, descriptive approach, through observation and interviews with students as research subjects. The results show that the use of AI has become an integral part of the learning process, helping students understand material, develop academic skills, and enhance creativity in the pastoral field. However, the use of AI also poses challenges in the form of a tendency towards instantaneous attitudes and potential dependency that can hinder critical thinking skills and deep reflection on faith. In the context of pastoral education, the formation of prospective catechists emphasizes not only intellectual aspects but also spirituality, personality, and pastoral sensitivity. Therefore, the wise and proportional use of AI is necessary, while still positioning it as a supporting tool, not a substitute for human roles. The role of lecturers and educational institutions is crucial in guiding students to be able to use technology critically, reflectively, and responsibly. Thus, the integration of technology and faith values ​​is expected to produce prospective catechists who are able to respond to the challenges of the times in a relevant and meaningful manner.

This study uses a qualitative research design with a literature study approach to examine the theological meaning of the suffering of the righteous in the Book of Job, specifically chapters 1–2 and 38–42. The literature study method was applied by collecting primary data in the form of biblical texts and secondary data from relevant national scientific journals. The approach used includes narrative interpretation to understand the story's structure, Job's character, and the dynamics of events, and theological interpretation to interpret suffering from the perspective of God's sovereignty. The results show that Job is portrayed as a righteous man who is pious, honest, and fears God, so his suffering is not related to personal sin. Job's suffering is holistic, encompassing physical, emotional, social, and spiritual aspects, and occurs in the context of God's permission of Satan's actions, confirming that no event is outside His sovereignty. God's response in chapters 38–42 emphasizes His greatness and wisdom through revelation from the storm, rather than through a rational explanation of the cause of suffering. These findings confirm that the primary purpose of suffering is not to be explained intellectually, but to purify faith and deepen humanity's relationship with God. Its relevance for the church today lies in the need for sound theological teaching on suffering, pastoral care for those who suffer, and the development of communities that sustain the faith and hope of the congregation. Thus, suffering, from the perspective of God's sovereignty, serves as a means of forming spiritual character, strengthening the resilience of faith, and recognizing the sovereign God.

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.

Social conflicts experienced by indigenous peoples in Yahukimo Regency, Papua Pegunungan, reveal the vulnerability of civilians due to violence, displacement, and weak protection of basic rights in situations of prolonged conflict. These conditions indicate a gap between conflict management policies and the real needs of indigenous peoples for justice, peace, and social recovery. This study aims to analyze the role of the church in responding to social conflicts experienced by indigenous peoples in Yahukimo Regency. This study was conducted using qualitative methods through a descriptive-analytical approach based on literature studies and analysis of the socio-religious context of Papua. This study confirms that the church has a strategic role as an agent of peace and a prophetic voice in defending the dignity and rights of indigenous peoples amid social conflict. The results of the study show that the church's involvement in pastoral counseling, humanitarian advocacy, and peace awareness building contributes to strengthening the social resilience of indigenous peoples. The study concludes that the role of the church needs to be directed in a more contextual and sustainable manner in order to promote fair and dignified conflict resolution. The recommendations of this study emphasize the importance of strengthening the role of the church in peace dialogue and cross-stakeholder cooperation for the social recovery of indigenous peoples in Yahukimo.

Considering the importance of the next generation in the church, children must be empowered to be better. Therefore, this research can be a work that provides education about the influence of technology on Sunday school children at the Imanuel Batubara' Ra'Bung church which can be used as an instrument to help them in developing better thinking patterns. The research method used is a qualitative research method with a descriptive approach to describe the reality of the reality that occurs in the field. The qualitative method is applied through library research and field analysis. The library study is applied by finding supporting theories that are relevant to the research. Furthermore, a descriptive approach is applied through interview techniques and field analysis. Interviews were conducted by the author through field research and social analysis. The theories applied by the author are theories about counseling, theories about the church and theories about social assistance. The results of this study are that Sunday school teachers and child care providers must work together to help Sunday school children know God well and also be able to lead themselves in a better direction.

The church has a strategic role not only in spiritual development, but also in the social and economic empowerment of the congregation. One relevant approach to address the challenges of congregational welfare is Theopreneurship, namely entrepreneurship based on Christian faith values. This study aims to determine how the form of pastor's mentoring as Theopreneur in improving the welfare of the congregation at HKI Resort Pulo Siborna, Panei District. The approach used is descriptive qualitative with data collection methods through interviews, observation, and documentation. The results of the study show that the pastor plays an active role as a facilitator, motivator, and spiritual guide in assisting the congregation in developing businesses based on faith values. The socio-economic development (PSE) program, which covers agriculture and animal husbandry, has successfully fostered an entrepreneurial spirit, togetherness, and the economic independence of the congregation. The pastor's mentoring as a Theopreneur has proven to be able to provide holistic services that emphasize not only the spiritual aspect but also the economic empowerment of the congregation. Thus, the pastor's mentoring as Theopreneurship has a positive contribution in improving the welfare of the congregation holistically, encompassing spiritual, social, and economic aspects. Therefore, Theopreneurship can be a model of contextual and sustainable church service in realizing the welfare of the congregation as a whole.

This study examines the identity and role of the Catholic Church as civitas Dei through an analysis of Augustine of Hippo’s political philosophy and its relevance to the pastoral response of the Konferensi Waligereja Indonesia (KWI) toward Indonesia’s socio-political dynamics in 2025. The research departs from the problem of how the Church should position itself amid political polarization, violent demonstrations, and violations of human dignity that marked the national context. It aims to (1) explain Augustine’s concept of civitas Dei and civitas terrena, (2) formulate the Church’s identity as a moral-spiritual community oriented toward God, and (3) analyze the relevance of this framework for the Church’s prophetic and pastoral engagement in Indonesia. This study employs a qualitative method with a literature review approach, drawing from Augustine’s De Civitate Dei, Church documents, and the official pastoral statement of KWI, complemented by relevant theological and socio-political sources. The findings show that Augustine’s distinction between the two cities is not merely institutional but based on the orientation of love: love of God that generates justice and service, versus self-love that leads to domination and injustice. Within this framework, the Church in Indonesia actualizes civitas Dei through solidarity with victims, ethical criticism of power, and active participation in promoting peace and the common good. KWI’s pastoral statement embodies this prophetic stance by advocating nonviolence, human dignity, and social justice. In conclusion, Augustine’s political theology remains normatively relevant for guiding the Church’s mission as a transformative moral force in contemporary public life.

Paaloka is a religious–cultural practice of the indigenous community of Detunggali Lewumbangga Village that functions as a medium for maintaining relationships with ancestors as well as a means of fostering social solidarity. This study aims to analyze the religious meaning of Paaloka and its relevance from the perspective of Catholic faith and within the local social context. The research employs a descriptive qualitative method, with data collected through observation and in-depth interviews with traditional leaders, church leaders, and community members. Data analysis was conducted through processes of reduction, categorization, and thematic interpretation. The findings indicate that Paaloka embodies religious values such as expressions of gratitude, petitions for blessings, and respect for ancestors, and serves to strengthen communal identity and social cohesion. From a theological perspective, Paaloka can be understood as a space for the inculturation of Catholic faith insofar as it is interpreted as an expression of prayer and lived faith in God without negating the teachings of the Church. This study underscores the importance of dialogue between faith and culture in the development of contextual pastoral practice.