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The development of social media has significantly changed human communication patterns. On the one hand, digital media provides a space for freedom of expression, but on the other hand, it has also given rise to digital judgmental cultural phenomena such as Cancel culture and cyberbullying. These phenomena often give rise to verbal violence, public humiliation, and massive social exclusion in cyberspace. This article aims to analyze the phenomena of Cancel culture and cyberbullying from a Christian ethical perspective. The research method used is a literature review with a theological-ethical approach. The results of the study indicate that the digital judgmental culture contradicts the principles of love, respect for human dignity as the Imago Dei, and Christian communication ethics taught in the Bible. Christian ethics views every individual as having value before God, so the practices of humiliation, digital bullying, and public judgment are unjustifiable. The church and believers are called to present constructive, loving, communication in the digital space.

This article theologically analyzes the role of the Holy Spirit in the lives of believers through a study of the doctrine of pneumatology, traced from the testimony of Scripture to its impact on the practice of Christian faith. The purpose of this study is to explain how the work of the Holy Spirit is understood not merely as a theological concept, but also as a spiritual reality that shapes the identity, character, and dynamics of believers’ service. The method employed is qualitative research with a library research approach, involving the analysis of relevant theological and biblical sources to construct a conceptual framework concerning the work of the Holy Spirit in guidance, conviction, the sealing of salvation, spiritual transformation, and empowerment in ministry. This research is necessary because there remains a limited understanding of pneumatology that tends to be doctrinal and disconnected from concrete faith experiences. The findings of this study indicate that the presence of the Holy Spirit plays a vital role in leading believers into truth, forming Christian character, strengthening their identity as children of God, and empowering them to serve effectively within the community. Therefore, pneumatology holds significant practical relevance in fostering a dynamic, reflective, and transformative life of faith in the contemporary Christian context.

This study examines eschatology within the framework of Catholic faith as a reflection of faith and hope of salvation, not merely as a depiction of the end times. The background highlights the need to avoid reducing eschatology to a sole event of judgment day, by emphasizing the close relationship between eschatology, Christology, and soteriology, as well as the role of faith in the daily life of Catholic believers. The aim of the study is to articulate eschatology as an integrative framework that connects faith, hope, love, sacraments, liturgy, and inculturation in the Church’s praxis, and to consolidate the active participation of the faithful in the Kingdom of God, which has been initiated but not yet completed. The research method is descriptive-analytical literature review, comparing the views of experts, the Church Magisterium, and contemporary liturgical and theological documents to construct a comprehensive theoretical framework. The main findings indicate that Catholic eschatology functions as a moral and spiritual engine: (1) it integrates the “already and not yet” in the experience of faith; (2) it links eschatological hope with the actions of love, justice, and social liberation; (3) it bridges private faith with sacramental practice and inculturation. Theological and pastoral implications include strengthening faith formation, participation in liturgy, and an imaginative response to present-day social and environmental challenges. This narrative affirms a living, inclusive, and relevant eschatology for the Church’s life of faith in the contemporary era.

This study is motivated by the importance of understanding theology not merely as a theoretical concept, but as a reflection of faith that is lived within the cultural context of society. In the context of the Dayak community in Central Kalimantan, there is a close relationship between cultural values and spiritual life, thus requiring a theological approach that can bridge the two. This study aims to analyze the praxis model in contextual theology and its application in the life of the Dayak community. The method used is a descriptive qualitative approach through literature study by examining various relevant sources. The results show that the praxis model emphasizes the relationship between lived experience, faith reflection, and concrete action. Cultural values such as togetherness and mutual cooperation are in line with Christian teachings; however, there are also traditional practices that create tension with faith. The church plays an important role in addressing this through a dialogical and reflective approach. The implications of this study indicate that the application of the praxis model enables believers to live out their faith in a contextual, relevant, and transformative way in daily life without losing their cultural identity.Top of Form

The rapid development of digital technology has transformed patterns of communication, learning processes, and the ways believers access religious information in daily life. While this transformation provides easier access to information, it also fosters an instant culture characterized by fast, brief, and less reflective information consumption. This condition poses significant challenges for the Church, particularly in faith formation, as it may weaken the depth of believers’ understanding of faith. This study aims to examine the role of literate catechesis as a response to the instant culture of the digital era, while also exploring the opportunities offered by digital media in faith proclamation. This research employs a qualitative approach using a literature review method based on relevant academic sources. The findings indicate that literate catechesis plays a crucial role in fostering mature faith through reading, reflection, and critical thinking processes, enabling believers not only to consume information but also to internalize and live out their faith more deeply. On the other hand, digital media offers significant opportunities to develop catechesis that is broader, more participatory, and contextually relevant. Integrating reflective depth with creative digital approaches is essential to ensure that faith formation remains both meaningful and relevant within an increasingly instant-oriented culture.

This research is motivated by the reality of human life that is inseparable from suffering and a crisis of hope, particularly within the context of faith experiences. Lamentations 3:1–24 was chosen as the object of study because it contains a profound expression of suffering that transforms into hope through an awareness of God's steadfast love. The purpose of this study is to theologically examine the meaning of hope amid suffering and to explore how this text provides spiritual strength for believers in the contemporary era. The research employs a qualitative method with a library research approach and theological-biblical hermeneutical analysis of the text of Lamentations 3:1–24. The novelty of this research lies in its integrative interpretation, which emphasizes existential honesty, faith reflection, and spiritual refinement as a path to forming spiritual character through suffering. The findings indicate that suffering is not the end but a divine means to direct believers toward true hope in God’s steadfast love. Thus, honest faith, prayer, and waiting become tangible expressions of a spirituality that endures and grows amid darkness.

The concept of fides quaerens intellectum (faith seeking understanding) in this study is interpreted by emphasizing the rationality of faith as a form of apologia based on 1 Peter 3:15. This study aims to demonstrate that Christian faith is not merely spiritual and normative in nature, but also possesses a rational dimension that can be intellectually justified. In this context, 1 Peter 3:15 serves as a biblical foundation that underscores the importance of believers being prepared to provide a logical and responsible explanation for the hope they possess.This research employs a qualitative approach through library research, combined with an exegetical analysis of 1 Peter 3:15 and a philosophical-theological approach to understand the relationship between faith and reason. Through this framework, the rationality of faith is examined as an integral part of the Christian apologetic tradition. Furthermore, this study affirms that faith and reason are not contradictory realities, but rather complementary elements in the pursuit of truth. The findings indicate that the rationality of faith functions not only defensively but also constructively in fostering dialogue between faith and the intellectual world. Christian faith is understood as a conviction that remains open to rational examination without losing its dimension of mystery. Therefore, fides quaerens intellectum emerges as a relevant paradigm in addressing modern challenges, while also contributing to the development of theological and philosophical studies, particularly in strengthening the integration of faith and reason in the life of believers.

This study aims to examine the role of literary catechesis in helping believers, especially young people, to understand and live out the Word of God in their daily lives. The background of this research is rooted in the rapid development of technology and the flow of information, which significantly influence how young people perceive and experience their faith. In this context, catechesis is often still conducted in a one-way manner and tends to lack connection with participants’ lived experiences. Therefore, a more contextual and participatory approach is needed. This research employs a literature study method by analyzing various sources, including academic journals and Church documents, particularly the Petunjuk untuk Katekese (2020). The findings show that literary catechesis is an effective approach because it places Sacred Scripture at the center of faith formation through processes of reading, understanding, and reflecting on the text. This approach enables participants not only to know the content of Scripture but also to relate it to their personal life experiences.

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

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

The New Testament is an essential part of the Christian Bible, containing testimonies concerning the life, ministry, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ, as well as the development of the early Church. To fully understand its message, it is necessary to examine the historical and theological contexts that shaped its composition. This article aims to explore the New Testament from historical and theological perspectives by examining the social, political, cultural, and religious background of the first-century world, the process of the writing of the New Testament books, and their principal theological messages. The study employs a library research method with a descriptive-analytical approach to various biblical and theological sources. The findings indicate that the New Testament emerged within the context of Roman rule, Jewish religious traditions, and Hellenistic cultural influences, all of which shaped both the authors and their audiences. The books of the New Testament were written to address the needs of early Christian communities, affirm the identity of Jesus Christ, strengthen believers' faith, and provide guidance for Christian living. Theologically, the New Testament emphasizes central themes such as the Kingdom of God, salvation through Jesus Christ, grace, the formation of the Church, and eschatological hope. Therefore, an understanding of the historical background and theological message of the New Testament is essential for accurate interpretation and for maintaining its relevance to the life of the Church and contemporary Christian believers.

This theological research explores Mary’s essential role in the narrative of salvation and her deep connection with the Church, as outlined in key Catholic documents like Lumen Gentium and Redemptoris Mater. Using a qualitative approach that combines descriptive and analytical methods, the study reviews Church teachings, Scripture, and theological literature. It highlights Mary’s pivotal status as Mother of God (Theotokos) a title affirmed by the Council of Ephesus in 431 CE, which underscores both Christ’s divinity and Mary’s unique participation in God’s redemptive plan. The study traces the theological roots of this title through biblical texts, portraying Mary as the chosen vessel through whom the Word became incarnate. It examines how Old Testament prophecies about Mary are fulfilled in New Testament events, especially in the Annunciation and Elizabeth’s greeting of Mary as “the mother of my Lord.” The research also delves into Mary’s bond with the Church, focusing on her recognition as Mother of the Church by Pope Paul VI during the Second Vatican Council. Mary is presented as the ideal disciple, embodying unwavering faith, obedience, and humility in her acceptance of God’s will. Her presence at key moments, from the Incarnation to Pentecost, positions her as both a member and a model of the Church. Ultimately, the study concludes that Mary’s unity with the Church is reflected in her dual role as Mother of Christ and spiritual mother to all believers, offering a profound example of Christian virtues and guiding the faithful in their collective journey toward salvation.

This study examines the relationship between suffering in Job 1–21 and God's sovereignty in the Old Testament. The problem arises from the tension between the theology of retribution that links suffering to sin and the reality that the righteous can also suffer. Job is a key figure in understanding this theological dilemma. This study uses a qualitative method with a biblical exegetical approach through analysis of historical context, literary structure, and theological meaning. The primary data comes from the text of Job 1–21, supported by relevant theological literature. The analysis is conducted descriptively and analytically to find the relationship between suffering and God's sovereignty. The results show that Job's suffering is not a direct result of sin, but rather occurs within the scope of God's sovereignty that transcends human understanding. This text also critiques the rigid understanding of the theology of retribution and emphasizes that faith is rooted in trust, not merely rational understanding. Job's perseverance demonstrates that suffering can be a means of faith growth as well as a test that deepens humanity's relationship with God. This study emphasizes that suffering is part of God's sovereign plan and encourages believers to remain faithful and persevere amidst the uncertainties and struggles of life.

Digital spirituality is a way of living and expressing spiritual life within the context of the digital world, where technology serves as a medium to strengthen one’s relationship with God, oneself, and the community. It is therefore a conscious effort to maintain and nurture faith amid the overwhelming flow of information on social media. The concept of From Scroll to Soul encourages believers not merely to be passive recipients of information but to engage spiritually by using technology as a tool for faith formation. Practices such as using spiritual apps, participating in online communities, selecting constructive content, and conducting digital detoxes are important steps to maintain focus on God. Theologically, digital spirituality affirms that God is present in every aspect of life, including virtual spaces. Technology can become a tool of grace that deepens one’s relationship with God and serves as a space for witnessing faith when used wisely. Thus, digital spirituality is not a rejection of technology but rather its use as a medium for growth, testimony, and bringing Christ’s values into the modern information culture.

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

This study examines Marian devotion in the Catholic Church as a form of veneration (dulia) rather than worship (latria), addressing persistent misconceptions that equate Catholic devotional practices with idolatry. The research aims to identify the forms of Marian devotion practiced by Catholics in Indonesia and to analyze the challenges encountered in living out these practices. A descriptive qualitative approach was employed using a Systematic Literature Review (SLR) guided by the PRISMA framework. Two hundred articles were initially identified through Google Scholar and screened according to relevance, recency, geographical context, and methodological criteria, resulting in four eligible studies for analysis. The findings reveal four principal forms of devotion: the use of statues as aids to prayer, pilgrimages to Marian sites, Montfort-style Marian consecration, and the rosary emphasizing praise, imitation, and prayer with Mary. These practices deepen faith and lead the faithful closer to Christ without replacing divine worship. Challenges include external religious intolerance toward devotional symbols and limited theological understanding among believers. Therefore, sound catechesis grounded in Scripture and Church Tradition is essential to ensure authentic and balanced Marian devotion.  

The environmental crisis is a global issue that has become increasingly evident and directly affects human life, including rural communities. Deforestation, environmental pollution, and changes in human lifestyles reflect an imbalanced relationship between humanity and nature. From a Christian faith perspective, the environmental crisis is not merely an ecological or social problem. This article aims to examine ecotheology as a foundation of Christian faith in responding to environmental crises, while also describing its practical implementation through a Community Service program conducted by lecturers and students of the Master’s Program in Christian Religious Education at IAKN Tarutung in 2025 in Situmeang Pintu Bosi Village, Sipoholon District, North Tapanuli Regency. The method employed is a qualitative approach using a participatory service model, which includes ecotheological material presentations, Bible-based reflective discussions, and the accompaniment of simple environmental care actions with the local community. The service materials emphasize the understanding of God as the Creator and Owner of all creation, the cultural mandate and stewardship, the reality of sin and its impact on the degradation of creation, and the role of the church and believers in preserving environmental integrity. The results indicate an increased theological understanding among the community regarding Christian responsibility toward the environment, along with the growth of ethical awareness to care for nature through concrete actions in daily life. This activity affirms that ecotheology is not merely conceptual, but has practical relevance in fostering faith-based ecological awareness.

This study aims to explore and deepen the understanding of the doctrine of the Holy Trinity through the approach of Hindu–Christian meditative dialogue. The doctrine of the Holy Trinity constitutes the central foundation of the Christian faith, understood as the unity and equality of the essence of the one God in three persons, namely the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. However, explanations and interpretations of the Trinitarian doctrine are often regarded as complex and difficult to comprehend, not only by the general public but also by many Christians, particularly lay believers. Therefore, an alternative approach that is more communicative and contextual is needed so that this doctrine can be understood in a simpler and more reflective manner. One approach proposed in this study is the concept of Hindu–Christian meditative dialogue, which emphasizes the contemplative dimension and inner spiritual experience as means of theological understanding. This study employs a qualitative method using a literature-based approach, drawing on theological documents, books, scholarly journals, and other relevant literature as the primary data sources. The collected data and information are then systematically analyzed and elaborated to formulate a more accessible conceptual understanding of the doctrine of the Holy Trinity through Hindu–Christian meditative dialogue. The findings indicate that Hindu–Christian meditative dialogue can serve as an effective medium for explaining and understanding the doctrine of the Holy Trinity in a clearer, deeper, and more contextual manner.

This article examines the spiritual needs of Christian youth and identifies effective ministry strategies for supporting their faith formation. The study explores how child ministry foundations contribute to developing spiritual maturity during adolescence, a phase marked by rapid emotional and social changes. Using a descriptive approach, the discussion highlights core spiritual needs such as identity in Christ, meaningful discipleship, and supportive mentoring environments. The findings suggest that intentional ministry strategies such as relational mentoring, contextualized teaching, and participatory faith practices play a significant role in strengthening the faith and character of young believers. The article concludes that churches and educators must design holistic, youth-centered ministry programs that respond to contemporary challenges while nurturing long-term spiritual growth.

In the context of modernity, characterized by secularization and existential anxiety, traditional models of Christian faith formation often appear disconnected from the lived reality of believers, particularly regarding the doctrines of salvation and eschatology. This study investigates the crucial role of the church in bridging this gap by developing a pedagogical approach that integrally links ecclesial education with eschatological hope. Employing a qualitative descriptive analysis method, this research examines theological literature, contemporary church documents, and case studies of Christian formation programs. The analysis reveals that a robust eschatological perspective oriented towards the hope of salvation, resurrection, and the renewal of all things is not merely a final chapter of doctrine but an essential, transformative framework for all faith education. It shapes Christian identity, ethics, and mission in the present. The study concludes that for faith formation to be salvific and relevant today, the church must intentionally reconfigure its educational praxis. This reconfiguration involves moving from a compartmentalized teaching of "last things" to fostering an eschatological imagination that informs discipleship, worship, and social engagement, thereby presenting salvation as a comprehensive hope actively shaping Christian life in the modern world.