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This study aims to analyze the relevance of Robert Raikes' Christian educational thinking to the character formation of children in contemporary Sunday School services. This study uses a qualitative approach with a library research method. Data were obtained from various literature sources such as books, scientific journals, and research articles related to Christian education, character education, and the history of Sunday School development. Data analysis techniques were carried out through the stages of data reduction, grouping themes, interpretation, and drawing conclusions using descriptive qualitative methods. The results show that Robert Raikes' thoughts remain relevant in modern Christian education, especially in the formation of children's character through the teaching of God's Word, discipline, role models, and the instilling of Christian values. Sunday School plays an important role as a means of fostering faith, morality, and social responsibility in children from an early age. In addition, the challenges of the digital era require churches to develop more creative, interactive, and contextual learning methods without abandoning the basic values ​​of the Christian faith. This study confirms that the success of children's character formation depends not only on the church, but also on the role of Sunday School teachers and families who work together to build a conducive spiritual environment. Thus, Robert Raikes' thinking makes an important contribution to the development of Christian education that is relevant in the modern era.

Christology is a branch of Christian theology that discusses the person and work of Jesus Christ as the core of the Christian faith. The development of the modern era, characterized by globalization, pluralism, technological advancement, and cultural diversity, presents new challenges in understanding Christ in a relevant and contextual manner. This research aims to examine the development of Christological reflection in various life contexts and explain its application in contemporary life. The research uses a qualitative approach with a literature study method thru the examination of various classical and modern theological literature from both Protestant and Catholic traditions. The analysis was conducted using a historical-critical approach to understand the development of Christological thot from the early church period to the modern era. The research results show that Christology is not only doctrinal but also has practical dimensions related to personal, social, cultural, interfaith dialog, ecological, and modern challenges. Christological reflection affirms that Jesus Christ is understood as the true God and true man, serving as the foundation of spirituality, ethics, and social action for Christians. Furthermore, the contextual Christological approach helps the church present Christ's teachings relevantly in a pluralistic and dynamic society. This research implies the importance of developing contextual, inclusive, and transformative theology so that the Christian faith remains meaningful in modern life.

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.

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.

Catechesis is a process of faith formation that aims to help the faithful, especially Catholic youth, to know, internalize, and live out the Christian faith in their daily lives. In the digital era, youth participation in ecclesial life tends to decline, as indicated by low involvement in Church activities. This condition is influenced by various factors, such as academic and work commitments, as well as the dominance of digital culture, which is often more appealing to young people than spiritual activities. This study aims to analyze the role of catechesis in increasing the participation of Catholic youth in the digital era and to examine the relevance of retreats and recollections as contextual forms of catechesis. The research employs a qualitative approach using a literature study method, supported by observations of ecclesial life at the station level. The findings indicate that catechesis that is primarily informative is less effective in addressing the needs of young people, who seek a more personal and participatory faith experience. In this regard, retreats and recollections have the potential to serve as forms of catechesis that deepen faith experiences and encourage active participation in the life of the Church.

This study aims to examine the theological meaning of love for the poor in the apostolic exhortation Dilexi Te and to reflect on its relevance within the context of Indonesia’s pluralistic society. The research employs a qualitative method with a literature study approach, using Dilexi Te as the primary source, supported by relevant theological and social literature. The findings reveal that love for the poor in Dilexi Te is not merely a charitable act but constitutes the core of Christian faith, inseparable from one’s relationship with God. This love is integral, encompassing spiritual, moral, and structural dimensions, and calls for active engagement in promoting social justice and addressing the root causes of poverty. Theologically, solidarity with the poor is grounded in the mystery of Christ’s incarnation and the principle of the preferential option for the poor. In the Indonesian context of diversity, this teaching holds strong relevance as a foundation for fostering interreligious solidarity, strengthening social cohesion, and encouraging both the Church and society to work toward a more just, inclusive, and humane social order. Therefore, this study highlights that theological reflection on love for the poor is not merely normative but also carries concrete social implications in a pluralistic society.

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.

The church has a strategic role not only in spiritual development, but also in the social and economic empowerment of the congregation. One relevant approach to address the challenges of congregational welfare is Theopreneurship, namely entrepreneurship based on Christian faith values. This study aims to determine how the form of pastor's mentoring as Theopreneur in improving the welfare of the congregation at HKI Resort Pulo Siborna, Panei District. The approach used is descriptive qualitative with data collection methods through interviews, observation, and documentation. The results of the study show that the pastor plays an active role as a facilitator, motivator, and spiritual guide in assisting the congregation in developing businesses based on faith values. The socio-economic development (PSE) program, which covers agriculture and animal husbandry, has successfully fostered an entrepreneurial spirit, togetherness, and the economic independence of the congregation. The pastor's mentoring as a Theopreneur has proven to be able to provide holistic services that emphasize not only the spiritual aspect but also the economic empowerment of the congregation. Thus, the pastor's mentoring as Theopreneurship has a positive contribution in improving the welfare of the congregation holistically, encompassing spiritual, social, and economic aspects. Therefore, Theopreneurship can be a model of contextual and sustainable church service in realizing the welfare of the congregation as a whole.

The digital era presents various opportunities as well as challenges in the world of education, particularly in the formation of student character. The development of technology, social media, and the unlimited flow of information influence the way students think, act, and behave. This condition demands the role and responsibilities of Christian Religious Education (PAK) Teachers that are increasingly complex and strategic. This study aims to describe the responsibilities of PAK Teachers in the formation of student character in the digital era. The research method used is a qualitative method with a literature study approach. Data were collected through a review of scientific journals, academic books, and theoretical sources relevant to the research topic. The results of the study indicate that PAK Teachers are not only responsible for conveying Christian faith material, but also guiding students in internalizing and practicing Christian values such as love, honesty, responsibility, self-control, and empathy, both in real life and digitally. PAK Teachers act as educators, role models, guides, and spiritual counselors who integrate character education into the learning process. In addition, PAK Teachers are required to have adequate pedagogical, professional, personality, and social competencies, as well as the ability to utilize technology wisely. Collaboration with parents and schools is a crucial aspect in sustainably shaping students' character. Thus, Christian Religious Education teachers act as agents of transformation in shaping a generation with Christian character ready to face the challenges of the digital era.

This study analyzes the relationship between Christian faith and artificial intelligence (AI) through a theological-philosophical approach and assesses its relevance to the existence of the Catholic Church in the digital age. The background of this study stems from the rapid development of AI, which brings both opportunities and risks to the life of faith, such as the simplification of theological teachings, the reduction of personal relationships, and the emergence of a technocratic paradigm. The study uses qualitative methods with a literature review of the Holy Scriptures, Church documents, and literature on philosophy and technology ethics. The results of the analysis show that AI is a product of human creativity as the image of God, so it does not conflict with faith, but it remains instrumental and does not have moral or spiritual dimensions like humans. Therefore, AI cannot replace the role of humans in faith relationships. The Church is called to guide technological development through Christian ethical principles, upholding human dignity, being critical of the effects of dehumanization, and utilizing AI wisely for evangelization, catechesis, and faith education. With a reflective and critical approach, the Church can remain relevant amid technological advances without losing its identity and mission for the common good.  

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 examines the Ka’Bawakng dance as a cultural–religious expression of the Dayak Kanayatn community that has undergone a deepening of meaning through inculturation within Catholic liturgy. Originating in the Baliatn ritual, Ka’Bawakng dance initially functioned as a medium of healing and cosmological communication that affirmed the interconnectedness of human beings, nature, and Jubata. In its encounter with the Catholic faith, the dance was incorporated into the Eucharistic celebration as an offertory dance through symbolic reinterpretation grounded in the principles of inculturation articulated by the Second Vatican Council. This research employs a hermeneutical approach using participant observation, in-depth interviews, and documentary study, analyzed through thematic analysis. The findings indicate that Ka’Bawakng dance is not treated as a merely decorative liturgical element, but is understood as a language of prayer engaging the body, cultural memory, and the spirituality of the faithful. This integration deepens liturgical participation, strengthens the religious–cultural identity of the Dayak Kanayatn community, and creates a constructive space for dialogue between ancestral traditions and Christian faith. Nevertheless, sustaining the inculturation of Ka’Bawakng dance requires ongoing pastoral accompaniment to ensure fidelity to Church liturgical norms while respecting local cultural values.

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.

The goal of Christian education is not only to increase students' knowledge but also to shape character that reflects the values ​​of faith in Christ. In the context of a diverse society, an inclusive and tolerant attitude towards differences is crucial for students. This paper aims to illustrate how students can be shaped to develop an inclusive and tolerant attitude based on the values ​​of the Christian faith. Through Christian Religious Education (PAK) learning that emphasizes love, respect for one another, justice, and peace, students are encouraged to recognize that every human being is created in the image and likeness of God. An inclusive and tolerant attitude can develop when students understand that differences are part of God's plan and implement this in their interactions with others. Therefore, Christian education plays a crucial role in instilling the value of Christ's love so that students can live peacefully together, appreciate differences, and become role models in a diverse society.

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 study aims to examine and develop the learning process of Christian Early Childhood Education (ECE) through the application of a pedagogical hermeneutics approach. This approach is employed to interpret and convey Christian faith values in a contextual and pedagogical manner so that they can be meaningfully understood by young children in accordance with their developmental stages. The research adopts a qualitative method using a literature review and hermeneutical analysis of biblical texts, Christian ECE curriculum documents, and relevant literature in early childhood education and Christian theology. The findings indicate that the application of pedagogical hermeneutics enables the integration of faith texts, children’s developmental contexts, and creative as well as reflective pedagogical practices. The resulting learning process goes beyond the mere transmission of religious knowledge and emphasizes character formation, spiritual development, and holistic faith experiences for children. The study concludes that pedagogical hermeneutics can serve as a strong theoretical and practical foundation for developing Christian ECE learning that is contextual, meaningful, and responsive to the developmental needs of early childhood learners.

This article theologically analyzes the Christian doctrine of creation, highlighting the nature of God as Creator and its implications for human understanding of the world, the self, and the relationship with God. Creation is understood not merely as the initial event of the cosmos but also as God’s continuous act of sustaining, preserving, and directing all creation toward His divine purpose. Through a study of biblical texts and the reflections of classical theologians such as Augustine, Aquinas, and Calvin, this paper explores the concepts of creatio ex nihilo, the orderliness of creation, and the dignity of humanity as the image of God (imago Dei). This article also outlines how the doctrine of creation provides an ethical foundation for ecological responsibility, the sanctity of life, and respect for others in the context of contemporary challenges marked by moral crises and environmental degradation. The analysis shows that the doctrine of creation remains relevant for today’s faith, emphasizing that the world derives its meaning from God and that humanity is called to participate with God in caring for creation. Thus, this study offers a comprehensive understanding of the significance of the doctrine of creation for Christian faith and ethical practice in contemporary life.  

Understanding God in Christian education plays a crucial role in the moral formation of children, as the theological concept of God forms the foundation for values, character, and ethical actions, developed from an early age. In Christian education, the process of moral formation does not simply rely on rules or customs, but rather rests on the child's personal relationship with God as a loving, guiding Being, and the source of truth. This study uses qualitative methods with a library research approach to explore how the concept of God according to Christian theology can serve as a foundation for the comprehensive moral formation of children. The aim of this study is to analyze how God's attributes such as love, holiness, justice, and faithfulness can be applied in the educational process so that the moral values formed are not formalistic but grow from a deep spiritual awareness. The research findings show that a proper understanding of God helps children recognize moral standards rooted in God's character, develop ethical attitudes, and strengthen the internal drive to live according to His will. This research is also expected to contribute to Christian educators in developing theological, contextual, and effective learning strategies to continuously cultivate children's morality in accordance with the principles of the Christian faith.

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.

This article examines the meaning of repentance and baptism in the Acts of the Apostles through an eschatological theological approach. Repentance and baptism are considered two important aspects in the journey of salvation and the development of the Christian faith. The methodology used in this research is qualitative with a literature study to explore the meaning, application and relationship between repentance and baptism from an eschatological theological perspective. Research findings reveal that repentance is a transformation of the heart that prepares a person to receive baptism as a symbol of new birth and the washing away of sins by the Holy Spirit. These two concepts complement each other and have significant theological consequences in the teaching and practice of the church's faith today. This research provides in-depth insight into the role of repentance and baptism in the context of gradual and eschatological salvation.