Publication Search

This article explores the spirituality of the bate symbol within the context of the blessing of Catholic church buildings in Tana Toraja as a concrete form of inculturation of the Christian faith into local culture. Originally, bate functioned as a religious symbol in traditional Toraja ceremonies for inaugurating tongkonan (ancestral houses). Over time, however, this symbol has been adopted and reinterpreted in Catholic liturgical celebrations, particularly during church blessing rituals. The study employs a qualitative method using a literature review and applies Paul Ricoeur’s hermeneutical framework, which consists of three stages: the world of the interpreter, the world of the text, and appropriation. The analysis reveals that bate can be understood as a cultural text rich in spiritual meaning. Traditionally, it symbolizes a connection between heaven and earth as well as cosmic power. Within the perspective of Christian inculturation, bate undergoes symbolic reinterpretation, representing values of faith such as the Trinity, the cross, the Eucharist, the Holy Scripture, and Jesus Christ as the mediator of salvation. The incorporation of bate in Catholic liturgy is not merely a cultural adaptation but a tangible manifestation of the encounter between faith and culture, achieved in a contextual and symbolic manner within Torajan society. This study affirms the significance of inculturation in proclaiming the Gospel in a way that is relevant and grounded, without compromising the core essence of Catholic faith. Furthermore, it recommends further research on other local symbols to enrich the dialogue between faith and culture in pastoral contexts.

This study examines the quality of a servant of God based on II Timothy 1:6–8 as a foundation for church development and spiritual growth. In reality, the role of God’s servant is often underestimated compared to other leadership roles in society, even though their quality greatly influences the life of the congregation and the direction of church ministry. The purpose of this research is to analyze the criteria for a quality servant of God in ministry, particularly in facing the challenges of the postmodern era, when relativism, individualism, and secularism often weaken spiritual commitment. The method used is a qualitative-analytical approach, with the primary data source being the biblical text of II Timothy 1:6–8, supported by secondary data obtained from theological literature, books, and relevant journal articles. Through exegesis and contextual analysis, this study identifies several essential criteria: the rekindling of spiritual gifts, the spirit of power, love, and self-discipline, as well as the courage to endure suffering for the sake of the Gospel. These characteristics are not only theological ideals but also practical demands for ministers who serve in a complex cultural and social environment. The findings of this study are expected to provide theoretical contributions to theological scholarship, particularly in the field of pastoral leadership and ecclesiology. In addition, the study offers practical guidance for church ministers in developing resilience, integrity, and Christ-centered leadership. The implication emphasizes that servant leadership rooted in character, love, obedience, and readiness to endure suffering is essential for strengthening faith, encouraging church growth, and glorifying God’s name. Therefore, the criteria outlined in II Timothy 1:6–8 remain highly relevant as a timeless foundation for effective ministry in the postmodern context

This article explores the issue of homosexuality from a Christian theological perspective by examining biblical teachings, traditions of the church, and contemporary theological discourse. Homosexuality has long been a controversial topic in Christianity because it is often associated with moral and doctrinal debates. This study aims to analyze how Christian theology interprets homosexual orientation and behavior, as well as how the church responds pastorally to individuals who identify as homosexual. Using a qualitative descriptive method with a literature review approach, this study reviews interpretations of biblical passages such as Genesis 19:1–29, Leviticus 18:22, Romans 1:26–27, and 1 Corinthians 6:9–10, which are frequently cited in discussions about homosexuality. The findings reveal that there are at least three dominant perspectives within Christianity: the conservative view, which rejects homosexual practice as sin; the moderate view, which distinguishes between homosexual orientation and action; and the liberal or progressive view, which accepts homosexuality as part of human diversity. The article concludes that the Christian view of homosexuality cannot be generalized and is influenced by historical, cultural, and denominational contexts. Therefore, a compassionate and dialogical pastoral approach is needed to uphold truth while welcoming all individuals with dignity.

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk menganalisis peran gembala dalam menumbuhkan iman jemaat berdasarkan Mazmur 23:1–6. Gembala dalam konteks Alkitab dipahami sebagai figur yang menuntun, melindungi, dan memelihara umat Allah, yang dalam pelayanan gereja diterjemahkan melalui pengajaran, konseling, teladan hidup, dan strategi pastoral. Penelitian ini menggunakan pendekatan kualitatif dengan metode deskriptif, di mana data diperoleh melalui studi literatur, observasi, wawancara, dan dokumentasi di lingkungan Gereja Gerakan Pentakosta (GGP) Sanggabuana. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa gembala memiliki peran penting sebagai teladan rohani, pembimbing iman, serta fasilitator transformasi jemaat melalui strategi penggembalaan yang efektif. Peran ini berdampak pada meningkatnya kesetiaan, kerendahan hati, serta keteguhan iman jemaat dalam menghadapi tantangan kehidupan. Dengan demikian, dapat disimpulkan bahwa keberhasilan pertumbuhan iman jemaat sangat ditentukan oleh kualitas penggembalaan yang dijalankan oleh gembala sidang secara konsisten dan kontekstual.

The phenomenon of charismatic pastors who simultaneously serve as merchants represents an increasingly common reality in contemporary Christian ministry, especially within urban contexts where economic and spiritual dynamics are closely intertwined. This dual role reflects both opportunities and challenges for the church, raising important theological, ethical, and practical debates concerning the integrity of pastoral calling in the midst of worldly interests, material pursuits, and potential temptations. On the one hand, the bivocational model may provide pastors with financial independence, reducing the burden on congregations and offering broader opportunities for engagement with society. On the other hand, it also carries the risk of blurring the boundaries between ministry and commerce, thereby creating possible conflicts of interest, diminishing spiritual authority, and weakening the congregation’s trust in pastoral leadership. This study aims to analyze the dual role of pastor-merchant in the light of New Testament theology by identifying potential tensions, examining the relevance of pastoral ethics in guiding decision-making, and evaluating the impact of this dual vocation on the life and witness of the church. Methodologically, this research employs a qualitative literature study, reviewing biblical, theological, and pastoral ethics sources to formulate a comprehensive understanding. The findings suggest that pastoral ethics serve as a vital compass for pastor-merchants, ensuring that ministry remains pure, Christ-centered, and untainted by financial motives. The Apostle Paul provides a theological and practical model for bivocational ministry, demonstrating how secular work and spiritual service can coexist without compromising the divine calling. Furthermore, a healthy, transparent, and accountable leadership framework is essential for sustaining integrity and strengthening congregational trust. Ultimately, this study emphasizes that the identity of the church as “a chosen people, a royal priesthood” (1 Pet. 2:9) must remain the guiding principle, ensuring that the integration of pastoral vocation and marketplace involvement contributes positively to the church’s witness and relevance in modern society.

Mission constitutes a fundamental dimension of the Catholic Church’s identity, intrinsically linked to the divine mandate to participate in God’s work of salvation in the world. Within this framework, the consecrated life of the Congregation of the Missionary Sisters Servants of the Holy Spirit (SSpS) embodies a distinctive expression of Trinitarian spirituality and a prophetic missionary vocation. In the context of Timor Island, this charism is concretely manifested through ministries that directly engage with the realities of local communities. This study adopts a qualitative methodology with a literature review approach, drawing on theological sources, congregational spirituality, and the SSpS Constitution to explore the theological and practical dimensions of the sisters’ mission. The research aims to analyze how the life and apostolate of the SSpS Sisters serve as a tangible witness to the presence of the Triune God, particularly through works in education, healthcare, social services, and pastoral ministry. The findings indicate that the sisters’ mission is deeply rooted in a faith experience centered on the Most Holy Trinity, which shapes their incarnational and intercultural approach to ministry. Their service reflects a prophetic commitment to empowering marginalized communities, promoting human dignity, and fostering social transformation. Furthermore, the integration of religious vows with active engagement in societal issues illustrates a spirituality that bridges contemplation and action, grounded in both fidelity to the Gospel and responsiveness to contextual needs. In conclusion, the consecrated life of the SSpS Sisters on Timor Island stands as a visible and dynamic sign of God’s salvific and prophetic presence. Through their holistic and transformative ministries, they contribute significantly to the mission of the Church and the common good of society, embodying a vision of the “civilization of love” rooted in Trinitarian communion and expressed in concrete service to humanity.

This paper examines euthanasia from ethical, theological, legal, and human rights perspectives, focusing specifically on the Christian faith. Euthanasia, defined as the intentional termination of life to avoid physical suffering, raises significant moral and legal dilemmas. This study applies a qualitative method through literature review to explore expert opinions, Indonesian legal provisions, and theological foundations based on the Bible. The findings indicate that euthanasia contradicts the core principles of Christian ethics, Indonesian positive law, and human rights values that uphold the right to life. From a Christian worldview, life is a divine gift and should not be ended by human will. Suffering is understood as part of a spiritual journey that carries redemptive meaning. Furthermore, euthanasia presents complex implications not only for the individual undergoing the act but also for families, religious communities, and healthcare professionals. In Christian ethics, life and death are matters of divine sovereignty, and human agency in ending life is considered a violation of God's authority. The legal stance in Indonesia, as reflected in national laws and regulations, clearly prohibits any form of euthanasia, emphasizing the protection of human life as a constitutional right. From a human rights viewpoint, although autonomy is important, it must be balanced with the principle of preserving life. This study suggests that interdisciplinary dialogue involving theology, law, bioethics, and pastoral care is urgently needed to build awareness and offer compassionate responses to end-of-life issues. Churches, educators, and policymakers are encouraged to develop ethical guidelines and pastoral counseling approaches rooted in biblical truth and legal integrity. A wise and faithful response to the problem of euthanasia requires not only empathy but also a clear commitment to uphold the sanctity of life.

Christian leadership can be understood as leadership rooted in the truth of God’s Word and exemplified through the life and ministry of Jesus Christ. In the Gospel narratives, Jesus consistently displayed leadership qualities that were grounded in service, sacrifice, humility, and the nurturing of His disciples. However, in today’s context, many church environments face a crisis of leadership characterized by corruption, arrogance, lack of integrity, and resistance to constructive criticism, all of which deviate from the biblical image of Christ as the Good Shepherd. This study aims to explore the biblical foundation of Jesus Christ’s leadership, focusing on both its character and technical dimensions as reflected in the Gospel of John, and to examine its implementation in the local ministry setting of GPdI Bethesda Kabanjahe. The research employs a qualitative method with two primary dimensions: a theological-biblical approach and a case study approach. The findings reveal that, first, the pastoral leadership model in the Gospel of John presents Jesus as the Good Shepherd who builds intimate relationships, willingly sacrifices, and develops the character of His followers. While these values are normatively acknowledged by church ministers, their implementation in GPdI Bethesda remains partial, fragmented, and not yet systematically embedded into the overall ministry structure. Second, theological reflection and practical implications highlight the urgent need for renewal that encompasses both organizational systems and the personal spiritual formation of leaders. Recommendations emerging from this study include leadership training grounded in Christlike character, developing an organizational structure that ensures regeneration, cultivating a healthy spiritual community, and contextually internalizing Gospel values into ministry practices. Strengthening these areas is essential for building authentic, sustainable, and Christ-centered leadership that responds to contemporary challenges and restores the church’s witness to the surrounding community.

In the contemporary Christian context, many churches face a leadership crisis marked by corruption, arrogance, lack of integrity, and resistance to criticism—traits that starkly contrast with the servant-hearted leadership exemplified by Jesus Christ. This study aims to explore the biblical foundation of Jesus’ leadership, both in character and technical dimensions, as portrayed in the Gospel of John, and to examine its implementation within GPdI Betesda Kabanjahe. Employing a qualitative methodology, the research integrates two primary approaches: a theological-biblical analysis and a case study of leadership practices in the local church. The theological dimension focuses on Jesus as the Good Shepherd, emphasizing relational depth, sacrificial service, and intentional character formation of His disciples. The case study approach investigates how these principles are understood and applied by church leaders in GPdI Betesda. Findings reveal two key insights. First, the pastoral leadership model in the Gospel of John presents Jesus as a shepherd who leads through personal connection, selfless sacrifice, and transformative discipleship. While these values are normatively acknowledged by church leaders, their practical application in GPdI Betesda remains partial and lacks systemic integration into the church’s organizational and ministerial structures. Second, pastoral leadership at GPdI Betesda is marked by exemplary behavior and love in service. However, inconsistencies persist in leadership stability, spiritual maturity, and character development. The absence of structured ministry management and leadership formation contributes to these gaps. In conclusion, the study underscores the need for churches to realign leadership practices with the biblical model of Jesus, fostering integrity, humility, and servant leadership. Strengthening character development and implementing structured leadership systems are essential steps toward resolving the leadership crisis and embodying Christ-like shepherding in the church context.

This article analyzes the dynamics of the relationship between customs and the church in Bone Village, particularly the GMIT Jemaat Lopomaus Bone Church, in facing contemporary spiritual challenges, as well as its impact on the faith development of young people. Using a mixed-method research approach, data was collected through in-depth interviews with customary leaders, church leaders, representatives of parents, and youth leaders, as well as participatory observation. The research findings indicate that there has been strong harmony and collaboration between customs and the church since the arrival of Christianity, which contributes to the resolution of social issues and cultural preservation through social media. However, the nurturing of young people's faith faces significant obstacles such as the lack of special church programs, limited human resources (HR) in understanding faith, and the absence of a permanent pastor. Youth initiatives and support from teachers in 2023 have become turning points that drive the participation of parents and the congregation. This article recommends the need for an increase in structured faith development programs, strengthening of human resources, and serious efforts to have a permanent pastor to optimize the role of the church in shaping the spirituality of the younger generation in the midst of strong customary traditions.

The significant increase in the elderly population in Indonesia, along with the rise in global life expectancy, presents new challenges for their well-being, both physically, emotionally, and socially. One of the main challenges faced is the sense of lost meaning in life, which is exacerbated by physical limitations, the loss of a spouse, and social isolation. This study aims to explore the role of spirituality in empowering the elderly to find meaning in life through a pastoral approach. Using a qualitative case study approach, this research identifies the challenges faced by the elderly and analyzes how spirituality and pastoral approaches can enhance their lives. Data were gathered through in-depth interviews, participatory observation, and document analysis, and were subsequently analyzed using thematic methods. The results show that spirituality provides the elderly with strength to face life’s challenges, such as prayer, worship, and involvement in faith communities. Effective pastoral approaches include emotional counseling, Bible teaching, and engaging the elderly in spiritual community activities. This approach helps the elderly discover new hope and purpose in life, allowing them to live their later years more meaningfully. This study contributes to the development of pastoral care for the elderly and strengthens the role of spirituality in supporting their well-being.

The significant increase in the elderly population in Indonesia, along with the rise in global life expectancy, presents new challenges for their well-being, both physically, emotionally, and socially. One of the main challenges faced is the sense of lost meaning in life, which is exacerbated by physical limitations, the loss of a spouse, and social isolation. This study aims to explore the role of spirituality in empowering the elderly to find meaning in life through a pastoral approach. Using a qualitative case study approach, this research identifies the challenges faced by the elderly and analyzes how spirituality and pastoral approaches can enhance their lives. Data were gathered through in-depth interviews, participatory observation, and document analysis, and were subsequently analyzed using thematic methods. The results show that spirituality provides the elderly with strength to face life’s challenges, such as prayer, worship, and involvement in faith communities. Effective pastoral approaches include emotional counseling, Bible teaching, and engaging the elderly in spiritual community activities. This approach helps the elderly discover new hope and purpose in life, allowing them to live their later years more meaningfully. This study contributes to the development of pastoral care for the elderly and strengthens the role of spirituality in supporting their well-being.

Young Catholics have a very important role in the church. Young people are the next generation and are a pillar in building Spiritual faith, service, being the driving force and being the hope for the future development of the church. The purpose of this study is to analyze the relevance of the Apostolic Exhortation Christus Vivit in formulating and implementing Toraja Youth Day (TYD) 2025, a strategic activity of the Makassar Archdiocesan Youth Commission to empower Catholic Youth (OMK) in the Toraja Kevikepan. The method used is qualitative by means of interviews focusing on the Christus Vivit document and the context of organizing TYD 2025, including the challenges faced by OMK. The research shows that Christus Vivit's invitation to make young people protagonists, utilize creativity in proclaiming the Gospel, and the importance of contextual pastoral assistance are very relevant to the objectives of TYD 2025 to strengthen faith, build solidarity, and encourage active involvement of OMK. The integration of Christus Vivit values in TYD 2025, becomes a theological and pastoral foundation that inspires OMK to rise from the challenges of faith and witness as agents of change in the Church and in society.

Indonesia's diversity is a necessity to be denied, the deep-rooted Plurality must be maintained. Bhinneka Tunggal Ika and Pancasila as the breath and pulse of the nation must be lived and live for the nation. Diversity as a gift of God is an extraordinary potential, but it is necessary to be aware of the potential for conflict, tearing the weaving of the golden thread of plurality. The Holy Father's apostolic trip to the UAE gave birth to a brotherhood document, an invitation to cooperation and interfaith dialogue with Imam Al Azhar Ahmad el-Tayeb. Similarly, what happened in Our Lady of Cirebon Parish as a research locus. According to the doctrinal teaching, the Church voices the placement of others as brothers. This qualitative method research aims to explore the relevance of Abu Dhabi documents to the services of Interfaith Relations and Parish Beliefs, the practice of religious moderation of the people, inhibiting factors, supporting factors, efforts to encourage supporting factors, and suppressing inhibiting factors. Data were obtained through in-depth interviews with fourteen informants consisting of Catholics, representatives of each religion in Cirebon, representatives of Sundanese Wiwitan believers, and cultural experts using purposive sampling, observation, and documentation techniques. The results of the data show that twelve focuses of the Abu Dhabi document brotherhood have been applied in the service of the Sie Interfaith Relations and Parish Beliefs but have not been maximized and continue to be sought to be intact. Fanaticism, lack of team cohesiveness, and fear of the people are inhibiting factors. The Church has supported since the Second Vatican Council echoed interfaith cooperation. The Pastoral Focus of the Diocese of Bandung is a supporter in this study. So the effort is to initiate activities with fraternal nuances, and the role of the parish pastor in his pastoral mutual aid is to introduce documents to the grassroots. The answer to this study proves that the people of Cirebon can live harmoniously side by side with different ones. In line with the manuscript of Serat Carub Kandha through a philological approach, as a collective memory of the ancestral heritage in building a harmonious Cirebon.    

Indonesia's diversity is a necessity to be denied, the deep-rooted Plurality must be maintained. Bhinneka Tunggal Ika and Pancasila as the breath and pulse of the nation must be lived and live for the nation. Diversity as a gift of God is an extraordinary potential, but it is necessary to be aware of the potential for conflict, tearing the weaving of the golden thread of plurality. The Holy Father's apostolic trip to the UAE gave birth to a brotherhood document, an invitation to cooperation and interfaith dialogue with Imam Al Azhar Ahmad el-Tayeb. Similarly, what happened in Our Lady of Cirebon Parish as a research locus. According to the doctrinal teaching, the Church voices the placement of others as brothers. This qualitative method research aims to explore the relevance of Abu Dhabi documents to the services of Interfaith Relations and Parish Beliefs, the practice of religious moderation of the people, inhibiting factors, supporting factors, efforts to encourage supporting factors, and suppressing inhibiting factors. Data were obtained through in-depth interviews with fourteen informants consisting of Catholics, representatives of each religion in Cirebon, representatives of Sundanese Wiwitan believers, and cultural experts using purposive sampling, observation, and documentation techniques. The results of the data show that twelve focuses of the Abu Dhabi document brotherhood have been applied in the service of the Sie Interfaith Relations and Parish Beliefs but have not been maximized and continue to be sought to be intact. Fanaticism, lack of team cohesiveness, and fear of the people are inhibiting factors. The Church has supported since the Second Vatican Council echoed interfaith cooperation. The Pastoral Focus of the Diocese of Bandung is a supporter in this study. So the effort is to initiate activities with fraternal nuances, and the role of the parish pastor in his pastoral mutual aid is to introduce documents to the grassroots. The answer to this study proves that the people of Cirebon can live harmoniously side by side with different ones. In line with the manuscript of Serat Carub Kandha through a philological approach, as a collective memory of the ancestral heritage in building a harmonious Cirebon.    

Aborsi merupakan salah satu isu etis paling kompleks yang terus menjadi perdebatan dalam diskursus publik dan keagamaan, termasuk dalam konteks Indonesia. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk menganalisis dan membandingkan bagaimana prinsip-prinsip deontologi dan teleologi dalam etika Kristen membentuk pandangan terhadap praktik aborsi. Penelitian ini menggunakan pendekatan kualitatif jenis studi pustaka normatif-deskriptif dengan analisis etika komparatif melalui kajian literatur teologi dan dokumen gereja. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa pandangan deontologis menekankan nilai intrinsik kehidupan sejak konsepsi berdasarkan perintah ilahi yang mutlak, sementara teleologi mempertimbangkan konsekuensi aborsi bagi individu maupun masyarakat guna mencapai kebaikan terbesar atau mengurangi penderitaan. Kedua pendekatan ini saling melengkapi, meski sering menciptakan ketegangan dalam menentukan sikap. Penelitian ini berkontribusi dalam memperkaya diskursus etika Kristen di Indonesia serta menawarkan kerangka analitis bagi pelayanan pastoral dan pendidikan teologi.

This study aims to explore the Role of Pastoral Counseling in the Independence of Children with Special Needs at Rumah Pengharapan Baru (RPB) West Bandung. Qualitative methods were used to collect data through in-depth interviews, participant observation, and document analysis, involving pastoral counselors, Rumah Pengharapan Baru staff, and children with special needs. The results of the study indicate that pastoral counseling plays a significant role in increasing the independence of children with special needs, covering emotional, spiritual, and social aspects that support the development of independent living skills. Pastoral counselors function as companions and facilitators who help children understand and accept their condition, build self-confidence, and motivate them to achieve their maximum potential. A holistic and personal counseling approach and ongoing support from the Rumah Pengharapan Baru environment are effective in strengthening the independence of these children. This study concludes that children with special needs need intensive assistance and holistic care. Pastoral counseling plays an important role in providing emotional and spiritual support, helping them overcome anxiety and low self-esteem. Professional counselors who are caring and compassionate are the foundation of this ministry, ensuring that the emotional, psychological, and spiritual needs of children are met in a balanced manner.

This paper explores how climate change has contributed to the armed conflict in Darfur, Sudan, by emphasizing the human security perspective. Prolonged drought, desertification, and resource scarcity have intensified tensions between farming and pastoralist communities. Using a case study method and the Human Security framework, this study finds that ecological stress acts as a threat multiplier in conflict-prone areas. Data from IPCC, SIPRI, and UNHCR reports highlight how environmental degradation worsens structural vulnerabilities and fuels horizontal violence. The analysis shows that climate change is not only an environmental issue but also a serious security concern in fragile states. The failure of state institutions to equitably manage natural resources exacerbates the crisis. Therefore, a long-term, multi-sectoral policy response is urgently needed. Integrating climate resilience into international security strategies is essential to protect basic human rights.

Physical impairment is a condition of being damaged or disturbed as a result of deformity or obstacles to the bones, muscles and joints in their normal function. This condition can be caused by disease, accident, or can also be caused by a congenital condition that results in total disability. Physical impairment can also be interpreted as a form of abnormality or disability in the muscle, bone, joint and nervous system caused by disease, viruses and accidents that occur before birth, at birth and after birth. The aim of this research is to find out how adult men with disabilities can accept themselves in Manduamas sub-district. This research uses a qualitative description method. The population of this study was 4 adult men with disabilities. In an effort to provide assistance to adult men with physical impairments, researchers provide assistance with problematic aspects, namely, physical aspects, psychological aspects, social aspects and spiritual aspects. In an effort to provide pastoral counseling assistance using the Cilent Center approach to adult men with disabilities who cannot accept themselves, there are several approaches taken by the assistant, namely, listening, reflecting, explaining, and being fully present. From the research results, pastoral counseling with a client-centered approach can help adult men with disabilities accept themselves.

This study aims to provide a new understanding for people who are interested in the parousia of Christ as the resurrection of man. The location of this study was at the GKPI Jemaat Khusus Pandumaan, and used a mixed method, namely quantitative, distributing questionnaires to randomly selected respondents, and qualitative, interviewing people who were considered qualified by the researcher. It is interesting that the congregation of the GKPI Jemaat Khusus Pandumaan believes that the parousia of Christ will occur but they do not understand what its function is for them, both between the relationship between the parousia of Christ and the resurrection of man from the dead in the future. Referring to a conclusion, the Parousia of Christ is a resurrection for man because after man dies the flesh and spirit are separated and then the spirit stops until the parousia takes place, then the dead man is resurrected. So to every local church, especially the pastor who functions as the leader of the church, to study this teaching more deeply so that church members know the meaning and purpose of the parousia of Christ.