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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.

Divorce has become an increasingly prevalent moral and social phenomenon within modern society, including among Christian communities, with profound implications for family structures, spiritual life, and the church’s testimony in the world. This study analyzes divorce from the perspective of Christian ethics, grounded in a theological and moral reflection on Matthew 19:1–12 as the biblical foundation for understanding marriage and faithfulness. The findings reveal that divorce is not merely a legal or social concern but represents a spiritual crisis and a failure to uphold the sacred covenant established by God. Contributing factors such as infidelity, domestic violence, economic pressure, and weak faith formation erode the moral values of love and fidelity. Christian ethics emphasizes love, forgiveness, and moral responsibility as fundamental principles for healing and reconciliation within broken relationships. The church is called to exercise pastoral responsibility through guidance, counseling, and restoration, fostering ethical awareness and marital integrity among believers. Thus, applying Christian ethics to the issue of divorce is essential for nurturing spiritual maturity, strengthening family unity, and preserving the moral witness of the Christian community.  

This study examines the theological foundations of pastoral counseling in Christian Religious Education (CRE) within the digital era, emphasizing the integration of Trinitarian theology, adolescent developmental psychology, and the Great Commission in Matthew 28:19–20. Digitalization has reshaped adolescent struggles, introducing challenges such as cyberbullying, social media addiction, and virtual identity crises that demand contextual and transformative pastoral responses. Using a qualitative library research approach, this study synthesizes systematic theology, developmental psychology, and transformative pedagogy to construct a conceptual framework for CRE teachers in guiding the digital generation. Findings reveal that Trinitarian theology provides a holistic foundation: God the Father affirms authentic identity beyond digital validation, Christ the Redeemer restores identity from digital trauma, and the Holy Spirit guides character formation for wise engagement in the digital world. Integrating theology with developmental psychology enables a deeper understanding of the digital generation’s struggles and highlights the need for both theological depth and psychological insight. The proposed framework includes five components: Trinitarian foundation, contextual diagnosis, therapeutic intervention, supportive community formation, and the use of digital media as a ministry tool. This integrative and transformative model aims to foster holistic transformation—cognitive, affective, behavioral, and spiritual—preparing adolescents to become mature disciples who bear witness to Christ in digital spaces.

The disruptive era, characterized by rapid technological advancement, shifting social paradigms, and the globalization of ideas, presents a profound challenge to Christian Education, particularly in the realm of sexual ethics. The pervasive visibility of the LGBT phenomenon often creates a reactive response within Christian communities, leading to a perceived dichotomy between upholding biblical authority and extending Christ-like compassion. This article argues that this disruption should not be viewed merely as a threat but recognized as a Kairos moment a critical and opportune time for theological and pedagogical renewal. Employing a methodology of theological reflection and conceptual analysis, this study explores how Christian educators can move beyond polarized debates to reconceive their role. It proposes a framework for fostering a sexual ethic that is simultaneously biblically grounded and pastorally compassionate. This involves a deliberate rethinking of pedagogical approaches that engage students in critical dialogue with both Scripture and contemporary culture. The article contends that an authentic biblical ethic is not merely about prohibition but about forming disciples who understand God's design for human flourishing, relationships, and sexuality. By seizing this Kairos moment, Christian Education can empower students to navigate a complex world with convictional clarity and empathetic grace, thereby transforming a challenge into a catalyst for a more holistic, effective, and faithful ministry.

This article discusses the phenomenon of early marriage in Indonesia from the perspective of the Code of Canon Law, particularly Canon 1072, which emphasizes the pastoral duty of guiding young people away from premature marriages. Using a qualitative-descriptive method with a literature review approach, the study examines canonical texts, Church documents, and empirical data related to the issue. The findings reveal that Catholic marriage demands free and mature consent, emotional stability, and openness to the gift of life. Early marriage often fails to fulfill these essential elements, leading to negative social, psychological, health, and economic consequences. Furthermore, it highlights the challenges faced by the Church in pastoral accompaniment amid cultural and socioeconomic pressures that encourage early unions. Therefore, Canon 1072 remains a relevant and preventive pastoral guideline, aiming to protect the dignity and freedom of young people, promote responsible preparation for marriage, and strengthen the foundation of Catholic family life in modern Indonesian society.

Pastoral ministry is at the core of the life of the Church which requires the active and qualified involvement of its implementers, especially facilitators. At St. Joseph Tanjung Balai Karimun Church, the role of facilitators is very important in reviving the Ecclesiastical Base Community (KBG) as the main means of fostering the faith of the people. However, the limited number and capacity of facilitators are obstacles in supporting the effectiveness of pastoral ministry. This community service activity aims to increase the capacity of facilitators through training that focuses on developing communication competencies, faith mentoring, and pastoral leadership. The method used was observation and participatory training for three months, with periodic evaluation through reflection with participants. The results of the activity showed a significant increase in confidence, empathic communication skills, and the effectiveness of facilitators in managing group dynamics. In addition, the KBG meeting became more lively and participatory. Pastorally, this activity shows that strengthening the capacity of facilitators is not only a technical solution, but also a long-term strategy in building an independent, synodal and empowered Church. This activity is expected to be a model for other parishes in developing pastoral services that are contextual and relevant to the lives of today's people.

This research is entitled "Theology of Embrace: Perspectives of Indonesian Christian Pastors on Concern for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender People." The focus of the research is directed at how pastors of the Indonesian Christian Church (HKI) understand and respond to the presence of the LGBT community within the congregation, as well as how the concept of embrace theology can be implemented in Church services. The background of this research arises from the persistence of stigma, discrimination, and rejection of LGBT people in the church environment, which impacts their alienation from fellowship. This research method uses a qualitative with a descriptive approach, the researcher interviewed 10 HKI pastors in 9 regions to explore their perspectives. The results show that 3 HKI pastors still hold conservative views regarding LGBT, viewing it as behavior that is contrary to the values ​​of Christian faith. There are also 7 pastors who are starting to open themselves to embracing LGBT people through a more humane and compassionate pastoral approach. The concept of embrace theology according to Miroslav Volf is a relevant theological offer for creating an inclusive church space, solidarity, and relationship restoration. This research is expected to contribute to the church, especially HKI, in formulating pastoral policies that are fair, relevant, and in line with the values ​​of Christ's love for all people without exception.

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.

Humans are social creatureswho need interaction with other people to build their lives. Shared life emphasizes love that comes from God. People are not only involved in certain communities, people must also be more involved in the life of the Church. Their involvement in Church life is about how they actively participate in strengthening their spiritual bond with God. The advancement of digital technology in society has caused many people to utilize modern technology in carrying out catechetical activities because of the importance of building society’s faith in the digital era. Learning catechesis with various new services, both for the general public and small groups, will facilitate and encourage their ability to understand technology and their faith in God. Catechesis is a systematic and planned process in pastoral activities, catechesis has its own goal, namely to maintain, develop and mature the faith of the people through a systematic and planned teaching process so that people will increasingly live in the fullness of their faith in Jesus Christ and live according to his will (cf. CT. arts 20-21). The experience of using social media generally provided benefits for who felt they gained insight and were strengthened in the religious identity of the people. People see social media as a means to apostolic role with various spiritual content.

This paper discusses the theological study of tortor somba in the death ceremony of saur matua in the Batak Toba community. Tortor somba is believed to be able to realize the bond of brotherhood between those present in the death ceremony of a perfect person in kinship. The person is called saur matua, which means complete or perfect, namely a person who has had children and grandchildren, and has succeeded in life both socially and materially. Tortor somba is also believed to be a sign of respect, welcoming those who have a higher position, with this respect can receive blessings. The purpose of this study is to explore the meaning of tortor somba in the death ritual of saur matua in the Batak Toba community, as well as to determine the theological views on the death ritual of saur matua in the Batak Toba community. The research method in this researcher uses a qualitative research method with an ethnographic approach by conducting interviews with one of the village officials, three people representing the Batak Toba community, three traditional leaders, one HKBP Pastor, one GKPI Pastor, and one Catholic Tomok Pastor. The data was studied to examine theological studies regarding tortor somba in the saur matua death ceremony in the Toba Batak community.The results of the research show that the meaning of tortor somba in the Saur Matua death ceremony in the Toba Batak community is a form of pride, respect, and also gratitude. Tortor somba in death ceremonies is not only a child's form of respect for their deceased parents, but also to honor the spirits of ancestors or forefathers. This expression of respect is intended for ancestors. It is also important to provide new knowledge to the younger generation that tortor somba must be based on and illuminated by the word of God in order to maintain and respect culture, because if understood properly and correctly, religion and culture will complement each other.

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.

This study thoroughly explores the role of Christian women’s fellowship as a locus of spiritual recovery for survivors of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). The research was conducted through a library study of scholarly literature published in the past decade on faith-based community support, religious coping, and trauma-informed ministry. Thematic analysis indicates that women’s fellowship can provide a safe and inclusive recovery environment, facilitate faith reconstruction through positive religious coping and trauma-sensitive practices, and bridge spiritual care with professional mental health services. The novelty of this research lies in integrating recent findings from the psychology of religion with pastoral theology principles to develop a theoretical-practical framework adaptable to church contexts. The practical implications include implementing trauma-informed ministry standards, designing adaptive spiritual curricula, training facilitators, and conducting continuous evaluations. Therefore, Christian women’s fellowship has the potential to strengthen the church’s capacity as a holistic, safe, and resilient recovery community for PTSD survivors.

Karya tulis ini, "MERAWAT RUMAH BERSAMA: INTEGRASI SPIRITUALITAS KRISTIANI DAN TEOLOGI EKOLOGIS LAUDATO SI' SEBAGAI PARADIGMA BARU BAGI KAUM AWAM," menyajikan argumen yang relevan dan vital untuk mengkontekstualisasikan panggilan universal Ensiklik Laudato Si' dalam realitas ekologis dan budaya akut di Kalimantan. Menggunakan Tinjauan Literatur Sistematis (SLR) dengan protokol PRISMA sebagai metode, penulisan karya tulis ini mengusulkan model tiga pilar yang jelas dan menjanjikan (liturgis, asketis, dan sosial) sebagai paradigma operasional baru bagi kaum awam. Karya tulis ini bertujuan untuk mengintegrasikan data granular tentang krisis sosio ekologis Kalimantan dan detail etnografis Dayak yang sangat kaya, memperkuat klaim empiris dengan bukti yang dapat diverifikasi, dan secara eksplisit mengartikulasikan kontribusi uniknya dalam lanskap teologi ekologis dan inkulturasi di Indonesia yang jauh lebih luas. Kerangka kerja ini berupaya memberdayakan aksi ekologis akar rumput dengan menjembatani teologi tingkat tinggi dengan praksis pastoral awam yang praktis, menggunakan kearifan lokal Dayak sebagai material arsitektural utama. Temuan dari karya tulis ini ialah menyintesiskan panggilan universal Laudato Si' dengan kearifan relasional masyarakat Dayak yang kaya, kerangka kerja ini menawarkan sebuah jalan bagi Gereja di Kalimantan untuk bergerak melampaui aktivitas-aktivitas yang terfragmentasi menuju sebuah misi ekologis yang terintegrasi, mendalam secara teologis, dan transformatif secara sosial, yang dipimpin oleh kaum awam.

Church discipleship is a concrete manifestation of the shepherd's primary role and responsibility within the life of the church. A shepherd is not merely a preacher or worship leader, but a spiritual mentor committed to guiding the congregation toward spiritual maturity. This discipleship process involves various aspects such as deep biblical teaching, personal and communal pastoral care, and continuous discipleship. The main goal is for the congregation to move beyond superficial faith and grow into Christ-like individuals in character, knowledge, and action. This article explores biblical and theological principles of church discipleship and how the shepherd's role must be contextualized to meet the challenges of the present age and the needs of the people. In a world that is constantly changing and spiritually challenging, effective discipleship becomes crucial for the church to remain relevant and spiritually strong. This study affirms that spiritual maturity cannot be achieved instantly, but through a purposeful, consistent process rooted in love and the truth of God's Word. Therefore, discipleship must be a pastoral priority to build a mature, strong, and impactful church.

Penelitian ini mengkaji integrasi nilai-nilai budaya Huma Betang masyarakat Dayak Kalimantan Tengah sebagai fondasi spiritualitas ekologis bagi kaum muda Katolik. Melalui pendekatan diskursus teologis-kultural, studi ini mengeksplorasi bagaimana nilai belom bahadat (hidup bersama secara harmonis), handep (gotong royong), dan filosofi huma betang dapat diintegrasikan dengan prinsip ekologi integral Laudato Si'. Temuan menunjukkan nilai budaya lokal menjadi jembatan efektif antara iman Katolik dan identitas kulturan, menghasilkan spiritualitas ekologis kontekstual yang relevan. Strategi integrasi mencakup: transformasi paradigma iman dari antroposentris ke ekosentris, rekonstruksi pembinaan pastoral berbasis kearifan lokal, dan penguatan komunitas kaum muda sebagai agen perubahan ekologis. Penelitian berkontribusi pada pengembangan teologi kontekstual Indonesia yang mengangkat kearifan Dayak sebagai medium pewartaan iman sekaligus advokasi pelestarian lingkungan, menawarkan model inkulturasi yang responsif terhadap krisis ekologis kontemporer.

This study aims to analyze the factors influencing the absence of partua ibale (male congregants who are heads of households) in attending Sunday services at GKPPD Simbruna Village, Siempat Rube District, Pakpak Bharat Regency. The research employed a qualitative method, with data collected through observation, in-depth interviews, and documentation involving several congregants, church leaders, and community members. The findings reveal that absenteeism among partua ibale is influenced by both internal and external factors. Internal factors include a lack of spiritual motivation, boredom due to lengthy and less engaging sermons, low awareness of gratitude to God, and weak personal commitment to church participation. External factors include the long distance to the church, heavy family responsibilities, economic challenges, and the absence of exemplary conduct from church elders. The study concludes that the attendance of partua ibale in Sunday services is not solely a personal matter but also reflects the church’s effectiveness in providing pastoral care, strengthening fellowship, and encouraging active male participation in worship.  

This study aims to examine the concept of servant leadership based on Matthew 20:20-28 and its relevance to the leadership of pastors in the Pakpak Dairi Protestant Christian Church (GKPPD). The background of this research stems from the dynamics of church leadership, which still faces challenges in realizing the values of service, humility, and relational closeness as taught by Jesus Christ. This research uses a qualitative method with a literature review approach, focusing on the analysis of biblical texts and literature on biblical theology, Christian leadership, and pastoral spirituality. The results of the study show that Jesus introduced a leadership paradigm that is different from the world's pattern, namely leadership that is rooted in service, sacrifice, and love. This principle requires spiritual transformation in church leaders so that their ministry reflects the character of Christ. In the context of GKPPD, the application of servant leadership is important because of the influence of local culture, which emphasizes social structure, and the congregation's need for authentic, relational, and humble leaders. This research confirms that servant leadership is not only theological but also contextual in responding to the challenges of church life, as well as providing theoretical and practical contributions in building a leadership paradigm that is in line with the Gospel and relevant to the local church today.

The doctrine of the Perseverance of the Saints-also known as "once saved, always saved"-has been one of the most important tenets of the Reformed tradition. It states that those who are truly chosen and born again will never lose their salvation. However, this doctrine is not free from criticism, both from the perspective of Arminian theology and from the pastoral reality of people who fall into sin. This journal aims to evaluate the biblical basis, systematic logic, and practical implications of this doctrine. The research is conducted through a theological-critical approach, taking into account the primary sources of Scripture and the thought of classical and contemporary theologians. The results show that this doctrine, while having a strong Biblical foundation, requires caution in its application so as not to give rise to a permissive attitude towards sin or neglect the importance of continued growth in faith.

Penelitian ini mengkaji pengalaman umat Stasi Ibu Teresa Sei Hanyu dalam membangun Gereja Sinodal, sebuah model gereja yang menekankan partisipasi aktif dan kolaborasi seluruh umat beriman. Melalui wawancara mendalam dan observasi partisipan selama tiga minggu, studi ini mengungkap bagaimana prinsip-prinsip sinodalitas diterapkan di tingkat akar rumput. Temuan utama menunjukkan bahwa Stasi Ibu Teresa telah mengimplementasikan berbagai inisiatif untuk mewujudkan Gereja Sinodal, termasuk dialog antar umat, pemberdayaan kelompok kategorial, dan peningkatan partisipasi dalam liturgi serta pelayanan sosial. Meskipun menghadapi tantangan seperti resistensi terhadap perubahan dan kesenjangan generasi, stasi ini berhasil menciptakan ruang dialog yang memungkinkan suara-suara beragam untuk didengar dan dihargai. Dampak penerapan prinsip Gereja Sinodal terlihat dalam peningkatan keterlibatan umat dalam pengambilan keputusan gereja dan penguatan relasi sosial antar umat. Kolaborasi antara Stasi Ibu Teresa dengan Paroki induk juga mengalami peningkatan, terutama dalam perencanaan pastoral dan pelaksanaan program pembinaan iman. Penelitian ini menyimpulkan bahwa transformasi menuju model gereja yang lebih partisipatif dan inklusif membutuhkan komitmen dan keterlibatan aktif dari seluruh umat. Stasi Ibu Teresa mendemonstrasikan bahwa prinsip-prinsip sinodalitas dapat diterapkan secara konkret di tingkat lokal, memberikan kontribusi pada visi Gereja Katolik universal yang lebih inklusif dan responsif.

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.