Publication Search

This study aims to examine the role of Madrasah Ibtidaiyah teachers in shaping students’ Islamic character through a character education approach. The research employs a qualitative method with a library research design by reviewing various literature sources, including books, journal articles, and relevant previous studies. The findings indicate that Madrasah Ibtidaiyah teachers play a strategic role as educators, mentors, role models, facilitators, and guides in instilling Islamic character values in students from an early age. These values include honesty, discipline, responsibility, patience, empathy, humility, gratitude, mutual respect, cooperation, and obedience to Islamic teachings. The formation of Islamic character is carried out through classroom learning activities, daily habituation, exemplary behavior demonstrated by teachers, and various religious programs integrated into school life, such as congregational prayers, Qur’an recitation, and Islamic celebrations. In addition, teachers collaborate with parents and the school environment to create a consistent and supportive atmosphere for character development. The study concludes that the success of Islamic character education at the Madrasah Ibtidaiyah level is strongly influenced by the consistency, commitment, and quality of teachers’ roles in carrying out their educational responsibilities and serving as positive examples for students in everyday life.

This study aims to formulate an integrated Islamic Religious Education (PAI) learning strategy that synthesizes the acculturation of Islam Nusantara and ecological ethics as a response to the fragmented character of conventional PAI learning which has not yet optimally integrated local cultural values and ecological awareness. This research employs a qualitative library research method with a systematic literature review approach, analyzing 28 primary sources selected from 67 identified literature published between 2019 and 2025. Data were analyzed using Braun and Clarke's thematic analysis through six stages: familiarization, initial coding, theme searching, theme reviewing, theme defining, and report writing. The findings reveal that Islam Nusantara contains three relevant pedagogical principles cultural humility (tawadu' budaya), cosmological inclusivity, and peaceful transformation while Islamic teachings hold rich ecotheological dimensions through the concepts of ecological tauhid, khalifah fi al-ardh, amanah, and rahmatan lil 'alamin. Based on this synthesis, four integrated learning strategies are formulated: Contextual-Cultural Learning, Eco-Thematic Quranic Interpretation, Community-Based Ecological Projects, and Ecological Spiritual Reflection. This study proposes a new conceptual framework termed "PAI Nusantara-Ekologis," which positions students not merely as ritually devout individuals but as responsible stewards (khalifah) of the earth.

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 paper explores the role of Mary as a model of salvation in Catholic faith, focusing on the understanding of Mariology within the cultural context of the Ende-Lio people in Flores, East Nusa Tenggara. Mary is regarded not only as the Mother of Jesus Christ but also as an example of faith marked by humility, obedience, and hope. Her humility and willingness to accept God’s will, especially in the Annunciation, serve as a concrete inspiration for Catholics to respond faithfully to God’s call. Within the Ende-Lio culture, which values loyalty, solidarity, respect for ancestors, and harmony with nature, Mary becomes a figure closely connected to daily life. Devotions such as the rosary, pilgrimages to Marian grottoes, and the celebration of the Marian months highlight Mary’s living presence in both the faith and cultural traditions of the community. Thus, Mary serves as a bridge between the Gospel and local culture, revealing a Church that is rooted in its own soil yet remains faithful to Christ. This reflection affirms that contextual faith is a living faith deeply rooted in local culture while open to the saving work of God.

This study examines Philippians 1:9-10 as a theological foundation for integrating emotional and spiritual intelligence in Christian Religious Education (CRE). The background reveals that CRE in Indonesia primarily focuses on cognitive knowledge transfer, often overlooking the development of emotional and spiritual intelligence. This study aims to explore how Philippians 1:9-10 can provide a biblical framework for combining these two dimensions of intelligence in CRE. The research method used is biblical exegesis with a qualitative approach, supported by a literature review. The findings suggest that Philippians 1:9-10 highlights three integrated dimensions: love (emotional-affective), knowledge (cognitive), and discernment (spiritual-reflective). These dimensions, when integrated, offer a holistic model for CRE that nurtures students comprehensively. The study’s implications call for a reformed CRE curriculum that systematically incorporates emotional and spiritual intelligence, with teaching practices that model Christ’s humility, love, and obedience. This holistic approach can enhance the formation of Christian character, promoting not only intellectual growth but also emotional maturity and spiritual depth in students.

The development of modern education demands that teachers play a broader role beyond merely delivering subject matter, including building professional reputation, credibility, and positive influence on students, colleagues, parents, and society. For Christian Religious Education teachers, personal branding has a deeper dimension because they also serve as role models and ambassadors of Christian values. This study aims to describe the formation of personal branding among Christian Religious Education teachers based on spiritual and theological values, as well as its impact on teaching and student character development. The method used is descriptive qualitative through a literature study of books, journals, notes, and relevant reports, with narrative analysis to illustrate the practices and values that shape teachers’ personal branding. The findings indicate that the personal branding of Christian Religious Education teachers is an integration of professional competence, personal integrity, and Christian values, encompassing authenticity, consistency, professionalism, spiritual and moral role modeling, inspirational and communicative abilities, adaptation to technology, and positive relationships with students and the community. Spiritual and theological values such as Christian love, integrity, humility, patience, justice, service, and commitment to God’s Word form the main foundation that strengthens teachers’ credibility, motivates students, and establishes them as living examples of Christian life. Personal branding for Christian Religious Education teachers is not merely an image or popularity, but a real reflection of faith, character, and daily behavior consistent with Christian teachings, thus supporting effective learning, student character formation, and the teacher’s reputation as an authentic, inspiring, and professional educator.  

This study examines the implementation of Servant Leadership within GMIM Syalom Lelema and its influence on congregational attendance in worship fellowship. Rooted in the theological model of leadership exemplified by Jesus Christ, Servant Leadership emphasizes humility, empathy, presence, and service as core leadership values. Using a qualitative case-study approach, data were collected through observations, interviews, and documentation to understand the relational dynamics between church leaders and congregational participation. The findings reveal that the congregation highly values leaders—pastors, elders, and deacons—who demonstrate genuine care, pastoral presence, and willingness to serve. Acts of pastoral visitation, listening to members’ struggles, and showing humility significantly strengthen emotional and spiritual bonds within the community, resulting in higher attendance and engagement in various worship activities. Conversely, leaders who lack servant-like attitudes tend to receive weaker responses from the congregation, which negatively impacts their participation in worship. The study concludes that Servant Leadership is not merely a theological ideal but a practical necessity within the communal culture of GMIM Syalom Lelema. The model effectively fosters stronger relationships, increases congregational commitment, and enhances the vitality of church fellowship. Keywords: Servant Leadership, Pastoral Ministry, Worship Attendance, Ecclesial Leadership, GMIM Syalom Lelema.

This article thoroughly examines Imam Al-Ghazali's views on Islamic education and adab, with an emphasis on a holistic framework that combines knowledge, faith, charity, and morals to form an insān kāmil (perfect human being).  Al-Ghazali, a scholar from Tus, Persia, in the 11th century, defined education as a process of moral development and purification of the soul. The main goal of education is to obtain worldly and spiritual happiness. He opposes the educational paradigm of modern philosophers which focuses only on rationality. He emphasized that knowledge without adab is like fire which has no light.Adab is the main pillar of the educational process and helps children learn noble qualities such as patience, humility and honesty. This is implemented from an early age through spiritual practices such as dhikr and muhasabah.  In his great works, such as Iḥyā' 'Ulūm ad-Dīn, Ayyuhal Walad, and Tahāfut al-Falāsifah, Al-Ghazali combines rationalism with Sufism. He opposed the dichotomy between worldly knowledge (such as medicine and mathematics) and the hereafter, claiming that revelation provides a balance to prevent misguidance. His educational methods, based on internalizing values, examples, and ethical discussions, support the role of teachers as moral and spiritual role models and students as ethical learners. This thinking is highly relevant to modern education, especially in Indonesia, where a character-based curriculum is implemented by the Ministry of Education and Culture and institutions such as the State Islamic University (UIN) use a holistic approach to address the moral crisis caused by technological advancements. The main challenge lies with educators who lack an understanding of Sufism, which requires intensive training.

This Community Service activity (PKM) was carried out at the Church of Faith, Hope, and Love (IHAKA) with the aim of empowering lay members who do not have a formal theological background but have a desire to serve as Cell Group (KOMSEL) leaders. The method used is a participatory approach based on training and contextual reflection, consisting of three stages: interactive workshops, service reflection, and mentoring. The training is designed to equip participants with basic understanding of spiritual leadership, the ability to communicate the Word, as well as patterns of household worship relevant to the congregation's context. The results of the activity showed an increase in participants' confidence in leading worship, the ability to actively discuss the Word, and the formation of closer service relationships through prayer and shared meals. Post-training mentorship also strengthens participants' commitment to serving with faithfulness and humility. This activity demonstrates that service is not merely a routine activity, but a calling in life that can be carried out by lay congregants through simple yet impactful guidance. This PKM is expected to serve as an initial model for other local churches in nurturing lay ministers in a contextual and sustainable manner.

Objectives: This study aims to analyze the direct and indirect effects of Servant Leadership on lecturers’ Job Performance through the mediating variables of Job Satisfaction, Employee Engagement, and Organizational Citizenship Behavior (Organizational Citizenship Behavior). The study also seeks to identify which mediating variable has the strongest influence in explaining the relationship between leadership and performance among lecturers in private universities. Methodology: This study applies a causal quantitative approach using a survey method with a sample of 155 lecturers from Information Technology study programs at private universities in West Java. Data were collected through questionnaires and analyzed using Structural Equation Modeling–Partial Least Squares (SEM-PLS) to test ten research hypotheses and evaluate the mediating effects among variables. Findings: The results show that Servant Leadership has a positive influence on Job Satisfaction, Employee Engagement, and Organizational Citizenship Behavior, but does not directly affect Job Performance. Among the mediators, only Organizational Citizenship Behavior significantly mediates the relationship between Servant Leadership and Job Performance, indicating that lecturers’ voluntary behavior plays a key role in improving performance. In contrast, Job Satisfaction and Employee Engagement do not act as significant mediators. Conclusion: The findings highlight that leadership effectiveness in higher education depends on fostering Organizational Citizenship Behavior rather than relying solely on satisfaction or engagement. The study introduces the concept of Emphatic Leadership, which emphasizes empathy, accountability, and humility as essential values for leaders in academic environments. This approach offers practical insights for developing participative and humanistic leadership models to enhance lecturers’ academic performance.

One of the factors that determine the success of a character-based language learning process is the interaction between teachers and students. Polite language from students can show that they have the expected character, in addition to showing that teachers have helped students behave with polite language. Classes often do not meet expectations. Many students are still unable to pronounce good words. In the last two decades, there has been a significant decline in the implementation of polite language originating from Brebes Regency. Children believe that using impolite language is acceptable to their friends and following trends in their environment because of the abundance of impolite language in society. This causes people to use Indonesian less. The purpose of this study is to determine the politeness of Indonesian language students in interacting with teachers in grade IV SDN 1 Karangdempel. This study uses a qualitative research type. The approach used in this study is qualitative research with a descriptive approach. The location of this research is SDN 1 Karangdempel, Losari District, Brebes Regency, Central Java, Indonesia 52212. Based on research that has been done on the analysis of the form of politeness in Indonesian language in interacting with teachers in the learning process is polite. Because, in the implementation of the learning process can include several maxims including: Maxim of wisdom/wisdom, maxim of generosity, maxim of praise/appreciation, maxim of humility/simplicity, maxim of agreement/agreement, and maxim of sympathy. From several existing maxims it can be concluded that the maxim of humility/simplicity is the one most frequently found in the data of politeness in Indonesian language in class IV SDN 1 Karangdempel, Brebes Regency, because that maxim is the one that occurs most often in learning activities.

This study aims to find the values ​​contained in the novel shown through the characterization of the characters. These characterizations are related to the values ​​that occur in the lives of the characters in the novel Simfoni Persahabatan by Fakhri Violinist. This study uses a qualitative method with a structural approach that focuses on characterization and its relationship to educational values. Data were collected through document study techniques by carefully reading the novel and noting parts related to characterization, then analyzed using content analysis techniques to draw conclusions about the values ​​and messages contained in the novel. The results of the study show that the author successfully presents the characterization of two main characters, namely Nancy who has an arrogant nature and often insults others, and Bintang who is humble and always prays to God. Through the characterization of these two characters, the author conveys various educational values ​​including the value of simplicity, the spirit of pursuing ideals, moral education such as diligent study and humility, character education regarding respect for parents and teachers, the value of hard work, responsibility, patience in facing trials, the importance of admitting mistakes and forgiveness, and friendship. This research contributes to the world of education in utilizing children's literature as a medium for character formation, and provides references in selecting reading materials that suit the needs of children's character development.

This study aims to find the values ​​contained in the novel shown through the characterization of the characters. These characterizations are related to the values ​​that occur in the lives of the characters in the novel Simfoni Persahabatan by Fakhri Violinist. This study uses a qualitative method with a structural approach that focuses on characterization and its relationship to educational values. Data were collected through document study techniques by carefully reading the novel and noting parts related to characterization, then analyzed using content analysis techniques to draw conclusions about the values ​​and messages contained in the novel. The results of the study show that the author successfully presents the characterization of two main characters, namely Nancy who has an arrogant nature and often insults others, and Bintang who is humble and always prays to God. Through the characterization of these two characters, the author conveys various educational values ​​including the value of simplicity, the spirit of pursuing ideals, moral education such as diligent study and humility, character education regarding respect for parents and teachers, the value of hard work, responsibility, patience in facing trials, the importance of admitting mistakes and forgiveness, and friendship. This research contributes to the world of education in utilizing children's literature as a medium for character formation, and provides references in selecting reading materials that suit the needs of children's character development.

This article aims to explore the leadership management of Timothy, a young leader in the Bible, by examining his values, principles, challenges, and the relevance of his leadership for contemporary Christian students. The study employs a qualitative literature review method by analyzing the books of 1 and 2 Timothy, supported by relevant management and theological literature. The findings reveal that Timothy’s leadership is characterized by faithfulness, exemplary living, humility, courage, spiritual discipline, and a strong commitment to maintaining the purity of Christ’s teachings. In facing challenges such as false doctrines, social pressures, and limited congregational support, Timothy demonstrated managerial skills grounded in faith and obedience to the guidance of the Apostle Paul. The study highlights that Timothy’s leadership principles remain highly relevant for Christian students today in developing integrity, resilience, and service-oriented leadership. Furthermore, his example provides valuable insights into integrating spiritual management within academic and organizational contexts. This article contributes to a deeper theological understanding of leadership management that unites faith-based values, moral responsibility, and practical competence to respond wisely and ethically to the challenges of modern life.

The Qur’an is not only a source of law and moral guidance for Muslims but also a manifestation of harmony between aesthetics and ethics that shapes human spirituality. This study aims to explore the integration of aesthetic and ethical functions in Qur’anic recitation (tilawah), examining the relationship between the beauty of voice and the nobility of character in articulating the divine revelation. Using a descriptive qualitative method through a literature study, the research finds that the aesthetic aspect is reflected in the application of tajwid, melodic arrangement (maqamat), vocal beauty, and rhythmic harmony. Meanwhile, the ethical aspect is expressed through sincerity, humility, respectfulness in recitation, and the embodiment of Qur’anic values in daily life. The findings reveal that true beauty in Qur’anic recitation lies not merely in the pleasantness of the voice or technical mastery but in the purity of intention and spiritual depth of the reciter. The integration of aesthetics and ethics serves as a crucial foundation for nurturing spiritual depth, moral character, and cultural appreciation of the Qur’an, particularly in the context of Islamic education and da’wah. Thus, reading the Qur’an with both aesthetic and ethical awareness is not only an artistic expression but also an act of worship that unites beauty, morality, and devotion to Allah SWT in a holistic manner.

This article discusses the concept of Christian leadership management centered on Christ as the foundation for forming spiritual leaders who are characterized by integrity and service. In today’s modern context, which is often driven by power orientation and human-centered success, Christian leadership offers an alternative paradigm rooted in love, humility, and servanthood. Through a literature review of various thinkers such as Daniel Ronda, Yohanes Nuban Timo, Hendrik Senduk, and John C. Maxwell, this paper emphasizes that the essence of Christian leadership is not position but a calling to serve and to make disciples of Christ. Christian leadership management encompasses theological, spiritual, and practical dimensions, ranging from personal transformation, spiritual discipline, and the formation of Christlike character, to ministry management based on servant leadership principles. This article also integrates relevant secular leadership theories such as servant leadership, transformational leadership, and situational leadership with biblical values. In conclusion, effective Christian leadership can only be realized when leaders follow the example of Christ, depend on God’s wisdom, and produce new leaders who are able to bring spiritual and social impact to the world.

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

The thesis entitled, "Analysis of the Impact of Worship Based on John 4:23 on the Spiritual Growth of the GBI Patuha Bandung Congregation."John 4:23 can provide the teachings of the Lord Jesus about worship and the extent of its impact on the spiritual growth of the congregation. The research aims to explore how worship in the context of church services affects spiritual growth, including heart transformation, spiritual renewal, and character development in Christ. This study uses a qualitative descriptive approach to analyze the impact of worship based on John 4:23 on the spiritual growth of the congregation at Gereja Bethel Indonesia (GBI) Patuha, Bandung. Data were collected through interviews with leaders, activists, and church workers, as well as direct observations in the field. The results show that worship, as described in John 4:24, is a vital aspect of the spiritual life of the GBI Patuha congregation. The church has undergone significant transformation by shifting its focus from teaching to worship, with the aim of deepening a personal relationship with God. Worship is not only an emotional activity but also a means to strengthen faith, renew the spirit, and shape Christ-like character in the lives of the congregation. Worship grounded in the Word of God and the guidance of the Holy Spirit positively impacts the church community, encouraging active service and devotion to God and others. The congregation experiences heart transformation and spiritual renewal, which strengthens their relationship with God. Furthermore, worship focused on God encourages the congregation to live in humility, love, and obedience, as well as increasing their enthusiasm for serving. Innovations such as providing digital worship platforms also extend the church’s reach and enhance congregational involvement. This study also recommends the development of more structured worship training to deepen theological understanding and correct worship practices according to biblical principles.

This study aims to examine the practice of kesah as an effort to control oneself in the Persaudaraan Setia Hati Terate (PSHT) Branch of Pulau Panggung Regency, Tanggamus and to examine it from the perspective of moral Sufism. Kesah in the context of PSHT is not only a form of physical or spiritual exercise, but also a manifestation of the process of tazkiyatun nafs (purification of the soul) to achieve noble morals. This study uses a qualitative approach with a descriptive qualitative type. Data collection techniques are carried out through observation, in-depth interviews, and documentation. and documentation. The results of the study indicate that the practice of kesah is a means to train patience, reduce anger, and strengthen self-control of PSHT members in facing life's challenges. From the perspective of moral Sufism, kesah reflects the process of internalizing values ​​such as patience, humility, and sincerity which contribute to the formation of a balanced spiritual personality. Thus, kesah is not only part of self-defense training, but also a method of developing the soul towards a person with noble morals in accordance with the teachings of moral Sufism.  

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.