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In the following qualitative research, we identified the relationship of architectural styles based on Javanese Culture. The church displays a unique form of architectural acculturation from the church in general which adheres to the European Gothic style. Based on the results of the analysis, the aesthetics of the building combine the architectural style of Rome, namely wide-span buildings and flat domes with local Javanese architecture. The embodiment of Javanese culture is clearly seen in the interior in the form of reliefs and brick materials. The concept of space also puts Javanese architecture in the form of a courtyard without chairs like a Javanese Joglo house. The acculturation functions as an image of local culture so that it is maintained and makes the congregation feel comfortable and dissolve with the atmosphere of the place of worship. The presence of local cultural elements in the church building also shows respect for the values of traditional wisdom without losing the identity of Christianity itself. In addition, the combination of architecture shows that houses of worship can be designed as an inculturative space that is able to bridge the spiritual needs as well as the emotional needs of the congregation. Thus, the church building is not only a place of worship, but also a symbol of harmony between faith and culture in people's lives.

This article responds to the challenge of contextualizing Laudato Si's teachings on integral ecology in the Indonesian Catholic Church. This study examines the concept of "Mother Earth" as a symbol of local wisdom that has the potential to be used as a theological foundation in the inculturation process. Through textual analysis and theological-contextual reflection, this qualitative research explores the meaning of "Mother Earth" as the personification of the earth and dialogues it critically with integral ecological principles. The results of the study show that the values of harmony, mutual cooperation, and respect in the concept of "Mother Earth" have a deep compatibility with the vision of Laudato Si'. This symbol of integration not only strengthens contextual ecological spirituality, but also gives birth to praxis implications in the form of liturgical models, catechesis, and ecologically minded community assistance. In addition, the integration of local values provides space for the people to understand the relationship between humans and nature as a unit that supports each other, not as a relationship of exploitation. This approach opens up opportunities for the formation of ecological consciousness that is rooted in the nation's culture and is in harmony with the teachings of the universal Church. Thus, the inculturation based on "Mother Earth" offers a model to deepen the role of the Church in building a civilization of love in Indonesia and strengthen the collective commitment to environmental sustainability.

The Church in indonesia now plays an increasingly broad role in society, but also faces various complex challenges. These challenges come not only from outside, such as discrimination and social pressure, but also from within; such as limited resources and a reluctance to change. Therefore, the Church needs to understand these various issues in order to formulate ministry strategies that are relevant, contextual, and able to addres the needs of a diverse society. The Church is called to be a forum for the brotherhood of God’s people from various cultural backgrounds, while also bearing witness that unity in diversity is a tangible manifestation of God’s love in the world. However, cultural diversity can also create tension if not managed wisely. The inculturation of local cultures, such as Torok in Manggarai culture, has profound meaning. Torok is not merely a series of literary words, but has a profound meaning that reflects the identity of the Manggarai people in their relationship with themselves, others, nature, and God Himself as creator. As a poetic prayer, Torok serves as an expression of the totality of human life and a means to cultivate the values of brotherhood. The Church does not intend to implement rigid uniformity in matters that do not concern the core of the faith or the welfare of the faithful. On the contrary, the Church respects and strives to preserve the cultural riches that are characteristic of various tribes and nations.

This research explores the uniqueness and philosophy of the Bukit Rhema Chicken Church in Magelang, Central Java, which has an iconic pigeon-shaped architecture. Based on a qualitative method with a descriptive-analytical approach, this study identifies the main functions of the Rhema Hill Church, its architectural design background, and its impact on the economic, cultural, and spiritual life of the surrounding community. The church was designed as a universal house of prayer that symbolizes peace and hope. Apart from being a place of worship, the Chicken Church also functions as a tourist destination, rehabilitation center, and symbol of tolerance between religious communities. Its impact includes improving the local economy through tourism, interfaith cultural integration, and strengthening the spiritual life of local communities. The results of this study reveal how the symbolism and design of the Bukit Rhema Church are able to create harmony between religious, educational, and tourism functions. These findings show that the existence of the Chicken Church is not only aesthetically valuable, but also plays an important role in strengthening local identity as well as encouraging sustainable social collaboration. In addition, the existence of educational facilities and a reflection room in the building also provides a more immersive spiritual experience for visitors, so that the Bukit Rhema Church becomes an inclusive space for various groups.

The doctrine of the Church, or ecclesiology, is an essential part of Christian theology that focuses on the understanding, function, and role of the Church as the body of Christ. The Church is not only understood as a physical institution but also as a community of faith that serves to glorify God, minister to others, and proclaim the Gospel. This study explains the importance of church doctrine as the foundation for forming congregational identity, spiritual growth, and as a guide in worship and ministry practices. Furthermore, this paper describes the positive impact of church doctrine on the spiritual development and social life of the congregation, as well as the challenges faced in the context of social, cultural, and technological change. The Church is expected to respond to these challenges through doctrinal education, community strengthening, and a contextual approach so that its teachings remain relevant and can be practically applied in the lives of believers.

This study discusses the spiritual development of adolescents and Christian youth in facing the challenges of the digital age. The focus of this research is on the role of parents, churches, and Christian educators in shaping the spirituality of Christian youth and youth. The results of the study show that parents, churches, and Christian educators have a very important role in guiding Christian youth and youth in their faith journey. Digital literacy teaching strategies based on Christian values and engaging adolescents and youth directly in the ministry process are some of the ways that can be done to strengthen their faith and character. In addition, this study emphasizes the importance of sustainable and contextual spiritual coaching in order to be able to answer spiritual needs in the midst of the rapid flow of information and the influence of modern culture. The Church is also expected to be able to provide a safe space for dialogue for youth and youth to express their struggles of faith. Thus, comprehensive and collaborative coaching can help create a resilient young generation of Christians, rooted in God's word, and able to face the various moral and spiritual challenges of today.

This study explores the implications of the 1983 Code of Canon Law (CIC) on mixed marriages within the Catholic Church, focusing on its legal, pastoral, and social dimensions in the context of religious pluralism. Mixed marriages, involving a Catholic an a non-Catholic partner, pose unique spiritual and legal challenges due to differing faith backgrounds, the research aims to analyze how the CIC, alongsid Church documents such as Muto Proprio Matrimonia Mixta, Familiaris Consortio, and Amoris Laetitia, addresses these challenges while upholding the sacramental nature of marriage. A qualitative descretive method was employed, utilizing critical textual analysis of relevant literature, including books, journals, and Church documents, the findings highlight that Canons 1124-1126 og the CIC provide a robust legal framework requiring episcopal dispensation, commitment to Catholic faith preservation, and respect for the non-Catholic partner’s beliefs. these Canons balance the protection of Catholic identity with openness to interfainth dialogue. Additionally, Church documents emphasize pastoral accompaniment, compassion, and doalogue to foster family unity and fainth education for children. The study concludes that the CIC, enriched by pastoral approaches in the referenced documents, offers a framework that not only regulates mixed marriages but also transforms them into opportunities for spiritual growth and interreligious harmony, particularly in diverse societies like Indonesia. This integrated approach ensures the mixed mariages can be a source of blessing rather than conflict, promoting stability ant mutual respect in families.  

This study aims to formulate theopreneurship as a theological-entrepreneurial paradigm for empowering the church and society. The study is grounded in the problem that church ministry often remains predominantly charitable, while poverty, economic vulnerability, limited congregational independence, and weak access to productive ecosystems require a more transformative approach. This research employs a qualitative approach using a conceptual-constructive method through a literature review of theology of work, vocation, stewardship, social entrepreneurship, religion and entrepreneurship, and faith-based community empowerment. The data were analyzed through thematic content analysis and conceptual synthesis to construct a theopreneurship framework that avoids reducing church engagement in entrepreneurship to church business, commercialization of ministry, or prosperity theology. The findings indicate that theopreneurship can be understood as a reconstruction of the church’s ministry paradigm from a charitable model toward a productive empowerment ecosystem. Theopreneurship integrates theological values, ethical governance, congregational capacity formation, economic innovation, cross-sector collaboration, and social impact measurement. The central finding of this study affirms that the church does not need to become a corporation to generate economic impact; rather, it must become an empowerment ecosystem that forms congregants who are productive, ethical, independent, and socially transformative.  

This study examines the role of the church in building congregational social solidarity through a dialogue between Émile Durkheim’s sociology of religion and Dietrich Bonhoeffer’s theology of community. It responds to the tendency to reduce congregational solidarity to worship attendance, programmatic activity, or occasional charity, whereas genuine solidarity requires relational formation, trust, shared responsibility, and public witness. Using library research and conceptual-theological analysis, the study engages classical works and recent scholarship on religion, social capital, congregational cohesion, and ecclesial community. The findings show that the church functions as a relational infrastructure that forms belonging and participation, yet such solidarity remains ambivalent when it is not theologically corrected. Durkheim clarifies the social power of ritual and collective consciousness, while Bonhoeffer insists that ecclesial solidarity must be grounded in Christ, forgiveness, service, and life for others. The study concludes that a healthy church is not merely cohesive, but transforms internal cohesion into restorative public witness within fragmented plural societies, where Christian community must become critical, open, transformative, and contextually accountable to vulnerable persons and the wider public as gospel praxis.  

The statement of Jesus in Luke 18:16, “Let the little children come to Me, and do not hinder them,” contains a theological message that remains relevant for the church throughout the ages. This study aims to examine the meaning of this phrase through a biblical exegesis approach, considering the historical, grammatical, and theological context of the Gospel of Luke. The research employs a qualitative method with historical-grammatical hermeneutics and a literature review on children’s ministry from a New Testament perspective. The findings indicate that the phrase emphasizes Jesus’ indiscriminate acceptance of children as full members of the faith community while rejecting any structural, cultural, or spiritual barriers that diminish the value and rights of children in congregational life. The implication for the contemporary church is the need to develop an inclusive, holistic, and child-friendly ministry in liturgy, education, and spiritual formation, as well as to remove obstacles that may hinder the spiritual growth of children. Thus, the message of Luke 18:16 provides a strong theological foundation for building a church that honors and empowers children as heirs of the Kingdom of God.

This study aims to analyze the role of catechesis in preparing couples for marriage in the Catholic Church comprehensively, encompassing theological, spiritual, mental, and emotional dimensions. The background of this study is based on the phenomenon that some couples still enter into marriage without adequate faith preparation, thus implicating a low understanding of the meaning of the sacrament of marriage as a holy and inseparable life partnership. The research method used is a quantitative approach with a Likert-scale questionnaire as the data collection technique. The research instrument was compiled based on three main indicators, namely understanding the teachings of the sacrament, family function, and church life. Data were analyzed descriptively to measure respondents' perceptions of the effectiveness of catechesis in preparing for Catholic marriage. The results showed that the role of catechesis obtained a high average score of 37.34, with 83.87% of respondents in the strongly agree category. This indicates that catechesis plays a significant role in shaping the spiritual and psychological readiness of prospective couples. The implications of this research confirm that catechesis does not only function as a process of teaching faith, but also as an integral pastoral tool in building Catholic families based on love, loyalty, and Christian responsibility, and contributes to strengthening the faith of the church community. .

Pastoral ministry plays a crucial role in shaping the spiritual growth of the congregation so that they live according to the principles of the Kingdom of God. In practice, many congregations do not fully understand the meaning of Matthew 6:33, so its values are merely spiritual slogans without concrete application in daily life. This study aims to design a more effective pastoral strategy within the GEREJA KRISTEN SETIA INDONESIA (GKSI) Getsemani Palah Parajo, focusing on five main aspects: (1) a theological understanding of Matthew 6:33 as the basis for pastoral care; (2) the role of the pastor and congregation in building healthy relationships; (3) identifying the congregation's spiritual needs and challenges; (4) developing contextual pastoral strategies and methods; and (5) evaluating the congregation's spiritual growth. Through this approach, it is hoped that pastoral care will become a means of forming Christ-like character, which is not only theologically relevant but also has a real impact on the congregation's daily lives.

This article examines Moses’ leadership narrative from his divine appointment to the post-succession phase through the lenses of servant, transformational, and situational leadership. Using a qualitative narrative approach and thematic analysis, the study explores selected texts in Exodus, Numbers, and Deuteronomy to identify leadership patterns that are theologically grounded and practically relevant for churches in Indonesia. The findings show that Moses’ leadership integrates service and empowerment, vision and transformation, as well as contextual adaptation and succession preparation. Moses’ delegation in Exodus 18 reflects servant leadership that distributes responsibility and forms accountable structures. His call in Exodus 3 represents transformational leadership that shapes collective identity and mobilizes hope. His response to conflict and his public commissioning of Joshua demonstrate situational leadership and responsible succession. The article argues that Moses’ leadership offers a theological-practical model for Indonesian churches seeking leadership that is participatory, visionary, adaptive, and regenerative. This model is especially relevant amid plural social contexts, intergenerational transitions, organizational complexity, and the need for ecclesial accountability.

Education is a fundamental human right that must be guaranteed for every child without discrimination. In Indonesia, particularly in the Ambon region, educational inequality remains a serious challenge influenced by geographical, socio-economic, and structural factors. Children from impoverished families and remote areas often lack access to adequate education due to limited facilities, low-quality teaching staff, and inadequate technological infrastructure. This situation not only hinders children’s potential development but also perpetuates cycles of poverty and social injustice. Data from the Ministry of Education and Culture (2021) indicates low basic education participation rates and high dropout rates in Maluku and Ambon. In response, the church in Ambon, as highlighted by Joseph Lourine Since (2023), plays a strategic role through the Marginalized Children’s Development School (Sekolah Pembinaan Anak Marginal - SPAM), an alternative education program integrating academic learning with Christian character and spiritual formation. This initiative embodies the preferential option for the poor principle in liberation theology, as developed by Gustavo Gutiérrez, positioning the church as an advocate for the marginalized in its social and moral mission. This abstract recommends strengthening the church’s role in education through multisectoral collaboration to create a more just and inclusive education system for marginalized children.

The use of gongs and drums in the liturgy of the Catholic Church in Timor is a tangible form of inculturation, which is a process of dialogue between faith and local culture that enriches the spiritual experience and strengthens the identity of the people. Gongs and drums, which in Timorese culture have a symbolic meaning as a means of communication with ancestors and a marker of unity, are presented in the liturgy as a means of spiritual and cultural expression, making the liturgy a meeting space between tradition and faith. This process not only adds an aesthetic dimension, but also deepens the spiritual appreciation of the people and strengthens the liturgical communion. However, inculturation also brings theological and pastoral challenges, such as the risk of syncretism and cultural abuse, so adequate pastoral assistance and liturgical education are needed in order for the process to maintain the integrity of the faith and the values of the liturgical screen. Thus, inculturation is carried out wisely as a means of establishing faith, strengthening the identity of the local Church, and deepening the spiritual experience of the people in the land of Timor.

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk menafsir ulang makna iman anak berkebutuhan khusus melalui sudut pandang teologi disabilitas dalam konteks budaya serta pelayanan gerejawi di Indonesia. Anak berkebutuhan khusus, seperti autisme, sindrom down, hiperaktif, cerebral palsy, dan hambatan intelektual lainnya, acapkali dilihat dari sudut pandang medis atau psikologis saja. Sedangkan melalui sudut pandang spiritual mereka seringkali diabaikan atau dianggap tidak penting. Umumnya dalam banyak gereja, konsep iman masih sangat idealis, bergantung pada kapasitas intelektual dan kemampuan lisan. Hal ini mengakibatkan anak berkebutuhan khusus acapkali tidak bisa mengekspresikan iman yang "benar" sehingga seringkali dianggap kurang memiliki iman. Studi ini memakai metode penelitian literatur dengan mengkaji berbagai macam teori dan pendekatan dalam teologi disabilitas modern, seperti yang dikembangkan oleh tokoh seperti Amos Yong, John Swinton, maupun Thomas Reynolds. Studi ini juga mengaitkannya dalam konteks sosial-budaya dan konteks gerejawi di Indonesia. Artikel ini menunjukkan bahwa anak berkebutuhan khusus memiliki kapasitas spiritual yang asli, meskipun melalui cara pemahaman dan mengekspresikan iman yang berbeda dari anak reguler. Mereka dapat juga berperan aktif dalam lingkup liturgi dan aktivitas gerejawi. Dalam wilayah negara Indonesia, norma atau etika lokal seperti gotong royong, empati kolektif, serta penghargaan terhadap perbedaan dapat menjadi landasan berpikir teologis untuk membangun gereja yang lebih ramah anak berkebutuhan khusus. Kesimpulannya, penelitian ini mengundang gereja serta komunitas Kristen di Indonesia untuk memandang anak berkebutuhan khusus bukan hanya sebagai pihak yang menjadi sasaran pelayanan saja, namun juga sebagai subjek yang memiliki iman yang utuh, yang berharga, yang memiliki kontribusi spiritual yang dapat ikut serta membangun tubuh Kristus dalam kebhinekaan.

Leadership is a very important aspect in various organizations, including church organizations. There are many leadership characteristics in the Bible that can serve as models for leadership in the church. This article is a literature review using a qualitative approach to the text of 1 Timothy 4:12, focusing on the leadership of a young person. Its purpose is to encourage students to understand and apply the leadership model mentioned in 1 Timothy 4:12. The method used is descriptive analysis of the text of 1 Timothy 4:12, in order to provide a clear picture and understanding of the principles of young leadership. In addition, the descriptive method is also used to assess students’ understanding of leadership principles based on the text, as well as the level of their application in life and ministry. In conclusion, students understand the leadership principles in 1 Timothy 4:12, especially the importance of being an example, where the quality of a young person’s character is not merely theoretical, but students are able to live it out.

This study aims to understand the perspectives of pastors from the Punguan Kristen Batak Church (GPKB) regarding disability-friendly services for congregants. As a faith community, the church has a significant responsibility to create an inclusive environment where every member, including those with disabilities, is accepted and served equally. People with disabilities are seen not only as part of human diversity but also as part of the whole body of Christ, and therefore, their service must be prioritized in church life. This research uses a qualitative descriptive analytical approach, with data collected through in-depth interviews with six pastors from GPKB districts in Indonesia to explore theological understanding, practical experience, and challenges in serving congregants with disabilities. Data analysis was conducted thematically to identify patterns of views, service practices, and obstacles that arise. The results show that 84% of pastors have a positive perspective on inclusive service and support congregants with disabilities. However, the study also found challenges such as inadequate physical facilities, minimal service strategies, and limited theological understanding of disabilities. In conclusion, a paradigm shift, capacity building for pastors, and ongoing institutional support are needed to create an inclusive and disability-friendly church.

Environmental damage is a global phenomenon that demands changes to nature as the common home of all creation. Environmental damage occurs due to excessive human activity. One simple example is the lack of human awareness in terms of disposing of garbage in its place. The purpose of this study was to determine the church's responsibility in preserving the environment at the Sipinsur Geosite. The method in this study was to use a descriptive qualitative method by conducting interviews with several pastors around Sipinsur Tourism and visitors. The data was analyzed to determine the church's responsibility in preserving the environment. The results of the study showed that the church has duties and responsibilities in preserving the environment. The church is not only a place of worship but also a community that embraces in freeing nature from its destruction through (1) Eco-Prophetic Sermons, (2) Waste Management, (3) Tree Planting. Because the environment is God's creation and work. So the church needs to voice criticism or provide input for church members or the government regarding efforts to preserve the environment. This study provides a new contribution to the understanding that the church does not only pay attention to spiritual aspects, but also environmental aspects.

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk memberikan pemahaman mendalam mengenai Konsili Trente (1545–1563) sebagai respons resmi Gereja Katolik terhadap tantangan Reformasi Protestan, sekaligus sebagai tonggak pembaruan internal Gereja. Masalah yang diangkat dalam studi ini adalah ketegangan teologis dan historis antara tuntutan pembaruan dari dalam Gereja serta kritik keras yang dilancarkan oleh para reformator Protestan terkait Kitab Suci, sakramen, dan otoritas Gereja. Penelitian ini menggunakan pendekatan kualitatif dengan metode studi literatur melalui analisis data sekunder dari dokumen konsili, literatur teologi, serta penelitian historis sebelumnya. Kebaruan dari penelitian ini terletak pada penegasan peran Konsili Trente bukan hanya sebagai instrumen “kontra” terhadap Reformasi, melainkan juga sebagai wadah refleksi teologis yang menghasilkan reformasi internal mendalam dalam bidang liturgi, sakramentologi, formasi imam, dan disiplin gereja. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa Konsili Trente berhasil mengokohkan identitas Katolik melalui penegasan ajaran iman sekaligus memperbarui praksis pastoral, yang pada akhirnya menjadi landasan teologi dan kehidupan Gereja Katolik hingga Konsili Vatikan II. Oleh karena itu, studi ini menekankan pentingnya melihat Konsili Trente secara seimbang: sebagai benteng iman sekaligus sumber pembaruan yang relevan bagi dinamika Gereja sepanjang sejarah.