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This study was motivated by the importance of using digital technology-based learning media in Catholic Religious Education learning to improve students’ learning achievement. The development of digital technology requires teachers to use interesting and interactive learning media that are suitable for students’ needs. This study aimed to determine the use of digital technology-based learning media in Catholic religious education learning and its impact on students’ learning achievement at SMPK Swadaya Tuakepa. This study used a qualitative method with a descriptive approach. The research subjects consisted of the principal, the Catholic religious education teacher, and five students. Data were collected through interviews, observations, and documentation. The data were analyzed through data reduction, data presentation, and conclusion drawing. The results showed that digital technology-based learning media such as PowerPoint, learning videos, Canva, Kahoot, and Quizizz had been utilized well in the learning process. The use of digital media helped teachers explain learning materials more clearly and attractively so that students became more active, focused, and motivated in learning. In addition, the use of digital media also improved students’ intellectual abilities, cognitive strategies, attitudes, and skills. Therefore, digital technology-based learning media can improve the quality of Catholic religious education learning and students’ learning achievement at SMPK Swadaya Tuakepa.

The quality of Catholic Religious Education learning is an important aspect in shaping students’ faith, character, knowledge, and religious life skills. However, the learning process at SMK Negeri 1 Talibura still faces various challenges, particularly in the areas of spiritual attitudes, social attitudes, Catholic religious knowledge, and religious life skills. This study aims to describe the implementation of the Independent Learning Curriculum (Merdeka Belajar Curriculum) and its contribution to improving the quality of Catholic Religious Education learning at SMK Negeri 1 Talibura. The research employed a qualitative approach with a descriptive research design. Data were collected through observations, interviews, and documentation involving the principal, Catholic Religious Education teachers, students, and parents. Data analysis was conducted through data reduction, data presentation, and conclusion drawing. The results show that the implementation of the Independent Learning Curriculum has been carried out effectively through learning planning, learning implementation, learning assessment, and the Pancasila Student Profile Strengthening Project (P5). This implementation has had a positive impact on the learning process, outputs, and outcomes. Students demonstrated improvements in spiritual attitudes, social attitudes, Catholic religious knowledge, and religious life skills, as well as positive behavioral changes in their daily lives. The findings imply that the Independent Learning Curriculum can serve as an effective strategy for improving the quality of Catholic Religious Education learning in a holistic manner.

This study aims to implement the Cooperative Integrated Reading and Composition (CIRC) learning model to improve collaboration skills and learning outcomes among phase E students in class X-3 at SMA Katolik 2 Kabanjahe in Catholic Religious Education. This research employed Classroom Action Research conducted in two cycles, consisting of planning, implementation, observation, and reflection stages. Data were collected through observation sheets, learning outcome tests, and documentation, then analyzed using descriptive qualitative analysis supported by process and learning achievement indicators. The findings showed that the implementation of the CIRC learning model improved across learning stages, including orientation from 87% to 95%, organization from 90% to 97%, concept introduction from 87% to 92%, publication from 93% to 98%, and reflection and reinforcement from 87% to 98%. Students’ collaboration skills also increased in each indicator, namely working productively from 75% to 88%, actively participating in problem solving from 82% to 88%, maintaining a balance between listening and speaking from 76% to 86%, appreciating group members’ contributions from 73% to 87%, and demonstrating responsibility as group members from 77% to 93%. Learning outcomes also improved, as shown by the increase in the proficient category from 27% to 77%, while the basic and developing categories decreased to 0% in cycle II. These results indicate that CIRC effectively enhances students’ active participation, collaboration, responsibility, and learning achievement. Therefore, CIRC is recommended as an alternative collaborative learning model for Catholic Religious Education, particularly in strengthening cooperative interaction and meaningful understanding of religious learning materials in classroom practice.

This study aims to determine the leadership competency of Catholic religious education teachers in creating a conducive learning environment at SMP Negeri 4 Nubatukan. This research used a qualitative approach with a case study approach. Data collection was conducted through observation, interviews, and documentation involving Catholic religious education teachers, students, and school officials. The results indicate that Catholic religious education teachers have demonstrated leadership competency through their ability to manage the classroom, provide good role models, build positive relationships with students, and provide motivation during the learning process. Teachers also strive to create a safe, comfortable, and orderly learning environment to encourage students to be more active in learning. Furthermore, several supporting factors exist, such as collaboration between teachers and the school, parental support, and the application of religious values ​​in the school environment. However, this study also identified several obstacles, such as limited learning facilities, lack of student participation, and limited learning time. Based on the results, it can be concluded that the leadership competency of Catholic religious education teachers plays a crucial role in creating a conducive learning environment and supporting student development, both academically and spiritually.

The development of digital technology has brought about significant changes in various aspects of life, including early childhood faith education. Today’s children are growing up in an environment familiar with digital media, making it necessary to adopt a catechetical approach that keeps pace with the times. This article aims to examine the use of digital catechesis as a tool for early childhood faith education. This study employs a qualitative method with a literature review approach, gathering data from books, scientific journals, research articles, Church documents, and other relevant sources. The data is analyzed using descriptive-qualitative methods to understand the benefits, challenges, and role of digital catechesis in fostering children’s faith. Research findings indicate that digital catechesis can serve as an effective, engaging, and interactive medium for helping children learn about the teachings of the faith from an early age. The use of animated videos, religious songs, educational images, and learning apps can enhance children’s interest in learning, attention, and understanding of Catholic faith values. Furthermore, digital catechesis also assists the Church, families, and schools in providing faith education that is more contextual and aligned with the world of today’s children. However, the use of digital media still requires the guidance of parents, teachers, and faith mentors so that children receive proper direction and are protected from the negative impacts of technology. Thus, digital catechesis is a relevant tool in the faith education of young children when used wisely and purposefully. The presence of digital media does not replace the role of faith educators but serves as a tool that enriches the process of proclaiming the faith in the modern era.

This study aims to examine how schools foster togetherness amid religious diversity through a dialogical approach. This research employed a qualitative method and was conducted at SMA Negeri 1 Sumbul. Data were collected through observation, interviews, and documentation, while the analysis used the interactive model of Miles and Huberman, which includes data reduction, data display, and conclusion drawing. The findings reveal that three main religions Islam, Catholicism, and Protestantism coexist harmoniously within the school due to strong practices of tolerance. This is reflected in the implementation of religious worship conducted simultaneously at the same time but in different places according to each belief, as well as mutual respect during religious celebrations such as Ramadan and Eid al-Fitr, Easter, and Christmas. In addition, social interactions among students occur in an open, communicative, and non-discriminatory manner. These findings indicate that schools play a significant role in promoting unity through multicultural education, religious moderation, and dialogical approaches. Therefore, schools can serve as effective spaces for shaping students’ tolerant character and their ability to live harmoniously in a diverse society.

Religious pluralism in Indonesia constitutes a unique national identity, yet it is vulnerable to horizontal conflicts and acts of intolerance. This study aims to analyze the importance of interfaith dialogue in fostering mutual understanding from Catholic and Islamic perspectives within Indonesia’s pluralistic society. The methodology employed is qualitative research using a literature review approach, involving the collection and analysis of various relevant sources such as books, journals, and academic articles. The results of the study indicate that both Islam and Catholicism possess strong theological foundations in support of interfaith dialogue, emphasizing openness, respect for differences, and a commitment to peace and coexistence. Interfaith dialogue has proven to be an effective means of addressing divisions or conflicts, combating intolerance, and fostering harmonious relationships within a multireligious society. Furthermore, it was found that barriers to dialogue are still influenced by factors such as fanaticism, a lack of understanding, and socio-political conditions. This study concludes that interfaith dialogue is a strategic approach to strengthening tolerance and national unity. Therefore, it is recommended that interfaith dialogue be continuously developed through education, interfaith cooperation, and the active role of religious leaders in fostering inclusive and sustainable communication.

This study explores the integration of Creativity Education and Growth Mindset in Catholic Religious Education (CRE) at Senior High Schools and examines its alignment with the Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 4, focusing on quality and inclusive education. Using a Systematic Literature Review based on the PRISMA 2020 protocol, the study analyzed 1,263 articles from scientific databases, narrowing down to 106 relevant studies. The findings highlight that Creativity Education fosters critical thinking, cognitive flexibility, problem-solving, and the integration of moral and spiritual values. Growth Mindset enhances students’ intrinsic motivation, perseverance, and resilience, creating an adaptive, innovative, and inclusive learning environment. The synthesis led to the development of an integrative learning model, which includes the Creative Reflective Learning Cycle, Faith-Based Project Learning, Creative Growth Dialogue, and Digital Creativity Integration. This model aims to holistically develop students’ cognitive, creative, moral, and spiritual capacities. The study demonstrates that the combination of Creativity Education and Growth Mindset enriches CRE pedagogical practices and supports the development of 21st-century skills, such as critical thinking, collaboration, digital literacy, and moral literacy. It concludes that project-based learning, digital technology integration, and curriculum adjustments are vital steps in improving learning quality and inclusiveness. The study recommends further empirical research to test the effectiveness of the proposed model.

This research is motivated by the increasingly complex life of global society, characterized by the intensity of intercultural and interreligious encounters and diverse value systems. These interactions often give rise to conflict, intolerance, and moral crises in social life. Hans Küng's idea of ​​global ethics offers an ethical framework that emphasizes the importance of universal moral values ​​as the basis for peaceful coexistence. This research aims to examine Hans Küng's thoughts on global ethics and examine their relevance for the development of Catholic Religious Education. The method used a qualitative descriptive approach through literature study. Data were obtained from Hans Küng's main works and various scientific literature discussing global ethics, interreligious dialogue, and religious education as secondary sources. Data analysis was carried out through descriptive-analytical stages of data reduction, presentation, and interpretation. The results of the study indicate that the concept of global ethics emphasizes universal moral principles such as respect for human dignity, justice, solidarity, honesty, and shared responsibility. These values ​​encourage constructive interreligious dialogue and cross-cultural cooperation in a pluralistic society. Integrating global ethical principles into Catholic Religious Education helps shape individuals who are moral, tolerant, and open to diversity, moving beyond doctrine toward dialogue and social peace.

This research investigates the concepts of heaven and hell within Nias culture and compares them with Catholic Church teachings, exploring their implications for Catholic Religious Education (PAK). Driven by the disparity in eschatological understanding between local culture and Catholic doctrine, and the crucial role of inculturation in faith life, a qualitative approach employing literature review was adopted. Data sources included Church documents, books, and relevant scholarly journals. Findings reveal that Nias culture perceives post-mortem existence not as a dualistic heaven or hell, but as a continuation in the spirit world, influenced by social status and adherence to tradition. In contrast, Catholic teachings define heaven and hell as outcomes of humanity's relationship with God. The inculturation process highlights a dialogue between cultural values and Christian faith, demonstrating that integrating local cultural values into PAK can enhance students' faith experience, making learning more relevant and transformative within their contexts.

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

This research aims to describe the application of the Jigsaw learning method in increasing students' interest in learning in Catholic Religious Education. This research is based on the fact that the application of monotonous teaching methods tends to result in low student engagement in the learning process, which in turn affects their interest in learning. In this context, the Jigsaw method is viewed as one of the cooperative learning alternatives that can encourage students learn actively, responsibly, and collaboratively in groups. In this study, a qualitative descriptive approach was used through a literature review. Data were obtained through the study various relevant bibliographic sources, and then analysed descriptively through the stages of collection, selection, classification, interpretation, and conclusion drawing. The research shows that the Jigsaw learning method can increase students' interest in learning, as this method encourages students to be more active in the learning process, more responsible in understanding and conveying the material, and more capable of collaborating with their peers. The Jigsaw method also contributes to the creation of a more dynamic, participatory, and meaningful learning atmosphere. Therefore, the Jigsaw learning method is a strategic alternative that should be implemented to improve the quality of Catholic Religious Education.

This study analyzes and describes the multidimensional role of Catholic religious educators as a determining factor in innovating a conducive learning environment for academic achievement and the development of students' creativity. This study was conducted at SD Negeri 101856 Gunung Rintih, involving Catholic religious educators, homeroom teachers, students, and the principal as research subjects, using a qualitative approach. Data collection techniques included participant observation, in-depth interviews, and documentation collection. The findings of this study indicate that professional teachers who understand the essence of learning creativity have the strategic capacity to innovate a dynamic and inspiring learning environment through the implementation of their integrative roles as educators, teachers, mentors, creativity motivators, and counselors. The implementation of this role has been proven to foster a creative learning climate, as seen in increased active participation, courage to present ideas, frequency of questions, and willingness to take intellectual risks among students. The implication is that the integrative role of teachers is key to stimulating creativity and academic achievement. Therefore, to optimize and maintain these achievements, continuous professional development is needed to transform this positive dynamic into a culture of sustainable learning quality in the school environment.

Studies on Eucharistic Adoration have predominantly emphasized its role as a personal devotional practice and individual spirituality, while its implications for Catholic Religious Education as a space for faith formation remain underexplored. This gap indicates the need for a theological-pedagogical reflection that connects Eucharistic Adoration with the process of faith education, particularly in the context of young people. This study aims to examine Eucharistic Adoration as an expression of Sacramentum Caritatis and its relevance as a formative space within Catholic Religious Education. The research employs a qualitative approach through a library research method, analyzing Church documents, theological works, and relevant academic literature on the Eucharist, faith education, and psycho-spiritual well-being. The findings reveal that Eucharistic Adoration is not merely a liturgical or devotional practice but also holds significant pedagogical value. It can be understood as a contemplative space that enables young people to experience a personal relationship with Christ, reflect on their inner experiences, and deepen their awareness of God’s transformative love. Furthermore, this study indicates that Eucharistic Adoration has the potential to support psycho-spiritual well-being by providing moments of silence, self-acceptance, and meaning-making in the light of faith. These findings highlight that integrating Eucharistic Adoration into Catholic Religious Education can enrich faith learning processes and help young people live their faith in a more personal and holistic manner. This study contributes to theological and educational discourse by positioning Eucharistic Adoration as a relevant practice of faith formation within contemporary Catholic education.

Faith is often understood as a personal and spiritual relationship with God; however, in Catholic theology, faith also possesses an inherent social and political dimension. This study examines the relationship between Christian faith and citizenship through a theological reflection on the political participation of Catholics in Indonesia. The research aims to demonstrate that faith and political engagement are not separate spheres but mutually enriching dimensions of the Christian vocation to promote justice, solidarity, and the common good. Employing a qualitative method with a literature review approach, this study analyzes biblical foundations, the teachings of the Second Vatican Council, and the Church’s social doctrine, alongside contemporary discussions on political participation. The findings indicate that political participation can be understood as a concrete expression of faith and moral responsibility, particularly through civic engagement, political education, advocacy, and social involvement. Nevertheless, many Catholics remain passive due to negative perceptions of politics, corruption, and a lack of political formation. The study also highlights the importance of maintaining the Church’s moral autonomy while encouraging lay participation in practical politics. In the Indonesian context, the principle “100% Catholic, 100% Indonesian” reflects an integrated identity in which religious commitment strengthens civic responsibility. Ultimately, this research affirms that authentic faith necessarily leads to active citizenship, where Catholics contribute prophetically and ethically to the transformation of society and the realization of the common good.

This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of the Structural Analytic Synthetic (SAS) method in enhancing the early reading skills of first-grade students in Catholic Religious Education at SD YPPK Yohanes Paulus II Obaa, Mappi Regency, South Papua Province. The study employed a Classroom Action Research approach using a cyclical model comprising the stages of planning, implementation, observation, and reflection, conducted over two cycles. The research subjects consisted of 25 students, and data were collected through reading tests, classroom observations, and documentation. The results indicated a significant improvement in students’ early reading skills, with learning mastery increasing from 61% in the first cycle to 100% in the second cycle. This success was associated with the implementation of the SAS method through structured learning stages, progressing from sentences to words, syllables, and letters, accompanied by the use of varied media and intensive teacher guidance. In addition to improving reading skills, the SAS method was also found to enhance students’ interest, participation, and learning motivation. Therefore, the SAS method is recommended as an effective strategy for teaching early reading to young elementary school students, particularly within the context of Catholic Religious Education.

This article aims to examine the concept of humanist leadership that is lived and carried out by Catholic Religious Teachers in the learning and coaching of students. The approach used in this study is qualitative with a literature study method, which is sourced from Catholic Church documents, the Bible, and scientific literature related to educational leadership and humanism. The results of the study show that the humanist leadership of Catholic Religious Teachers is rooted in the example of Jesus Christ as a Teacher and Shepherd who prioritizes love, respect for human dignity, dialogue, and service. This leadership is manifested through empathy, justice, moral exemplarity, and the ability to build relationships that foster trust and responsibility of students. Thus, Catholic Religious Teachers who live humanist leadership are able to create an educational climate that is inclusive, liberating, and oriented towards the development of human personal integrity. This article is expected to be a theoretical and practical contribution to the development of the leadership competencies of Catholic Religious Teachers in the world of education.

The Protestant Reformation, pioneered by Martin Luther in the 16th century, was an important moment in Christian history. This movement emerged as a critique of Catholic Church practices, particularly the sale of indulgences and the abuse of power by clergy, which were considered to deviate from the teachings of the Bible. In response, the Catholic Church convened the Council of Trent. This council not only reaffirmed the teachings of the faith but also tightened spiritual discipline and reformed the internal structure to maintain the unity of the Church. In addition, the Council of Trent also encouraged pastoral renewal supported by religious orders, especially the Society of Jesus (Jesuits), which played a major role in education, missions, and social services. This study analyzes the roots of the Reformation, examines the Council of Trent as the official response of the Catholic Church, and explores the forms of pastoral renewal that emerged afterwards. The results show that although the Protestant Reformation was a major challenge, the Catholic Church's response through the Council of Trent and the pastoral renewal movement succeeded in strengthening Catholic identity and left an important legacy that has influenced the development of the Church to this day.

This article discusses the leva mass in Lamalera as one of the examples of the inculturation of the Catholic faith in local culture on the island of Lembata, East Nusa Tenggara. Inculturation is understood as a process of encounter between faith and culture, so that the proclamation of the gospel can be deeply lived in the context of the life of the local people. Through the leva mass, cultural elements such as sea symbols, boats (tena), traditional dances, traditional clothing, and regional songs are harmoniously integrated into the liturgy of the Catholic Church. For the Lamalera community, the sea is not only a source of livelihood, but a symbol of God's presence and power that blesses and protects human life. The celebration of the Mass emphasizes that God is present not only in the church building, but also in every aspect of human life, including work. The Leva Mass can also strengthen the spirit of brotherhood, solidarity, and the responsibility of the people towards His created nature. The people learn to be grateful for marine products, respect the environment, and work with the spirit of love and sacrifice. Thus, the leva mass is not just a religious ritual, but also a faith and cultural education that helps the people in understanding their call to live in harmony with nature and the will of God. Through the Mass of Leva, the Church in Lamalera portrays the living face of faith, the source of the gospel but rooted in the local culture.

This study aims to describe the role of Catholic religion teachers in instilling a multicultural spirit through Catholic Religious Education at SMP Katolik 2 W.R. Soepratman Barong Tongkok. The research was motivated by the urgent need to promote multicultural awareness in Catholic schools, especially in response to persistent issues of discrimination and exclusion among students. These challenges highlight the importance of Catholic religion teachers as character builders who foster inclusive and peaceful coexistence within a diverse school community. The research employed a descriptive qualitative approach using method triangulation. Data were collected through in-depth interviews with teachers and the principal, classroom observations, document analysis, and online questionnaires to students as supplementary data. Data analysis followed the Miles and Huberman model, involving data reduction, display, and conclusion drawing. The findings reveal that Catholic religion teachers go beyond teaching doctrinal content; they also act as educators, facilitators, mentors, and promoters of multicultural values. These roles are manifested in learning strategies such as Biblical reflections, group discussions, drama projects, and anti-discrimination classroom agreements. This study emphasizes that Catholic Religious Education plays a vital role in shaping students’ awareness and attitudes toward multiculturalism. Catholic religion teachers hold a strategic position in guiding students to become inclusive, open-minded individuals who are capable of living harmoniously in a pluralistic society.