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This study aims to develop a strategy for developing praise and worship services through a deeper biblical theology of Psalm 150, as a fundamental solution for congregational growth at YHS Eka Sinta Church in Kapuas Regency. The main premise of this study is based on the crucial disconnect between contemporary church music practices, which tend to be performative, and the essence of the doxology authoritatively contained in the text Scripture. By integrating descriptive qualitative methods and an exegetical biblical theology approach, this study explores the imperative meaning and poetic structure of Psalm 150 and then engages them in intercultural dialogue with the sociocultural context of local churches in Kalimantan. The results reveal that the biblical theology Psalm 150 emphasizes the totality of instrumental use and the universality of the subject of praise as an absolute reflection of God's sovereignty and might. Field findings indicate that the effectiveness of music services is often hampered by technical limitations and theological shallowness of liturgical ministers. This study concludes that healthy congregational growth, both in terms of spiritual quality and quantity, is rooted in the extent to which the church able to actualize biblical theological values ​​in expressions of praise that are relevant and resonate with the cultural background and local identity of its congregation. The resulting strategy offers a holistic ministry model, in which church music returns to its essential function as an instrument of faith transformation and a means of growing the Kingdom of God, adaptively yet faithful to the biblical text.

The study examines John 15:1–8, highlighting its Christological, ecclesiological dimensions, and pastoral implications in a contemporary context, particularly in West Kalimantan. Employing an exegetical approach integrated with theological reflection, the metaphor of the “true vine” is understood as a declaration of Jesus’ identity as the source of authentic life and the relational foundation of the community of disciples. The concept of “abiding” is interpreted as an ongoing existential connectedness with Christ, expressed through practices of faith such as engagement with the Word, prayer, and love. Meanwhile, “bearing fruit” is not merely ethical output but an authentic manifestation of life grounded in this relational union. Furthermore, the study argues that Johannine ecclesiology is organic in nature, portraying the church as a living community deriving its existence from and in Christ, rather than a purely institutional structure. The pastoral implications of this metaphor are significant in addressing local challenges such as individualism, ecological crisis, religious plurality, and the spiritual formation of youth. Using a praxis–reflection–praxis framework, the text is integrated into theological education as a model linking faith reflection with concrete action. The findings affirm that Christ-centered spirituality fosters personal and communal transformation relevant to the contemporary church.

This study aims to overhaul the conventional understanding of tourism through a missiological lens, by positioning social interactions at the Parbubu Tarutung Soda Water Tourism Object as the locus of Missio Dei (God's Mission) manifestation. Amidst the tendency of modern humans to be trapped in egocentrism, alienation, and minimal openness due to secular routines, God is present with a mission to transform human relations. Using a qualitative descriptive-theological method, this study analyzes three axes of social interaction (inter-tourists, tourists-managers, and tourists-local communities). The results of field research indicate that although the pattern of interaction between visitors is still minimalist and egocentric-group due to a purely physical recreation orientation, there is a strong spiritual modality in the service aspect (hospitality) of the managers that reflects the restoration of the image of God (Imago Dei). The absence of social conflict and the presence of sincere hospitality are identified not merely as business strategies, but as real implications of the work of the Holy Spirit who precedes the church (prevenient grace) in destroying human egoism. This study concludes that tourism can be an eschatological means by which social interactions are transformed into encounters that bring about God's Shalom, meaning that tourism can be a way to bring about God's peace through authentic encounters between tourists, rather than simply ordinary tourist transactions. The author recommends the reconstruction of public spaces in this destination as inclusive communal spaces that facilitate reconciliation and social transformation.

Urban poverty remains a complex social problem that affects various community groups, including scavengers who work within the informal sector. This study aims to analyze the survival strategies of scavengers in Tangerang City and reflect on their experiences from a Christian theological perspective. The research uses a qualitative approach through literature study and descriptive analysis of relevant social phenomena. The findings show that scavengers develop several survival strategies, including utilizing family and community networks, working persistently, selecting strategic collection areas, managing limited income, and adapting to uncertain environmental and economic conditions. Nevertheless, scavengers continue to face social marginalization, economic vulnerability, occupational risks, limited access to health services, and inadequate social protection. From a Christian theological perspective, this reality calls for a response grounded in love, justice, human dignity, and concern for marginalized communities. Therefore, churches, local communities, and wider society are expected to participate actively in empowering scavengers through holistic, inclusive, and contextual approaches that strengthen welfare, social recognition, and sustainable livelihoods.

This community service program aimed to strengthen community development in Negeri Soya by reinforcing group kinship ties within a multicultural society. As a traditional village in Ambon City, Negeri Soya is inhabited by people from diverse ethnic and social backgrounds who live together in one area. This diversity requires harmonious social relations supported by solidarity, brotherhood, and social awareness. The program focused on the men’s service group of the Elim Sector, Soya Congregation, as a forum for social and spiritual development. The activities were conducted through lectures, question-and-answer sessions, and collaborative practices in church services. The materials emphasized group kinship, social solidarity, togetherness, and the understanding that kinship is not limited to blood relations, but can also be built through shared territory, life experiences, and continuous social interaction. The results show that the Negeri Soya community has strong solidarity and active participation in religious and social activities. Values such as mutual cooperation, masohi, and the concept of orang basudara serve as important foundations for social integration. Men’s church service activities strengthened care, cooperation, and shared responsibility among members. These findings indicate that local cultural values remain relevant for managing diversity and building collective resilience in post-conflict communities. Overall, this program contributed positively to strengthening social relations and supporting harmonious, inclusive, and sustainable community life in Negeri Soya in daily life.

This research is motivated by the importance of understanding the development of the Kingdom of God in Indonesia as a reality present in the lives of the people through the values ​​of love, justice, and peace in a pluralistic society. The purpose of this research is to analyze the factors that support and hinder the development of the Kingdom of God in Indonesia and explain its application in contemporary life. The method used is a qualitative descriptive method through a literature review and theological analysis of the social, cultural, and religious dynamics that are developing in Indonesian society. The results of the study indicate that the development of the Kingdom of God is supported by the role of the church in evangelistic missions, holistic services, universal values ​​of love and justice, and a spirit of religious moderation. On the other hand, this development is hampered by local cultural resistance, socio-political dynamics, a lack of comprehensive theological understanding, and the potential for conflict in poorly managed plurality. The implications of this research emphasize that the Kingdom of God needs to be lived as a contemporary reality through personal and social transformation, obedience to God's will, and the realization of identity as citizens of the Kingdom of God in everyday life.

Divorce has become an increasingly common reality in Christian family life and poses serious challenges for the church in carrying out pastoral family ministry. Theologically, divorce stands in tension with Christian ethics, which views marriage as a sacred and covenantal institution established by God. This article aims to analyze Christian ethics regarding divorce from a biblical theological perspective and to examine its implications for family ministry within the context of Ketapang, West Kalimantan. This study employs a qualitative research method with a theological-normative and contextual approach through a literature review of biblical texts, theological books, and scholarly journals. The findings indicate that Scripture affirms marriage as God’s ideal will, while divorce is understood as a consequence of human sinfulness and relational brokenness. In the context of Ketapang, social, economic, and cultural factors contribute significantly to the vulnerability of families to divorce. Therefore, the church is called to develop a contextual family ministry that not only upholds Christian ethical norms but also embodies love, justice, forgiveness, and restoration for broken families. This article emphasizes that Christian ethics concerning divorce must be practiced pastorally and transformatively within the life of the local church.

This study aims to analyze the role of liturgical inculturation in shaping the faith experience of the congregation through the practice of Inculturated Mass at St. Klemens Mandonga Parish. The study employed a descriptive qualitative approach combined with literature review and a survey involving 96 parish respondents. The findings indicate that most parishioners perceive inculturation as an encounter between Catholic faith and local culture that helps them experience their faith in a more contextual and meaningful way in everyday life. The practice of the Inculturated Mass is considered not only to enrich liturgical celebrations through the use of local cultural elements, but also to encourage active participation among the faithful during worship. In addition, liturgical inculturation fosters awareness of the importance of preserving local culture in harmony with Christian values. Such contextual liturgical experiences help deepen the spiritual relationship between the faithful and God, strengthen brotherhood within the community, and build a more inclusive and harmonious communal identity. Therefore, liturgical inculturation plays an important role in shaping a more vibrant, profound, and contextual experience of faith within both the Church and society.

This study examines the Common Dange Mess at the Parish of Santo Antonius Padua Mendalam as a manifestation of the inculturation of Catholic faith with the Dayak Kayan culture. Using a descriptive qualitative approach, the study focuses on the meaning and relationship between the Church altar and the Lasah as symbols of liturgy and culture. The altar remains the sacramental center of the Eucharist, while the Lasah channels prayers, offerings, and local cultural identity, forming a harmonious dialogue without altering theological meaning. Cultural elements such as language, songs, dances, traditional attire, and ritual symbols are purified and aligned with the liturgy, ensuring that all offerings are directed to God. The findings indicate that the Common Dange Mess strengthens the faith of the Dayak Kayan community, preserves cultural identity, and affirms the practice of contextual theology, in which the proclamation of the Gospel is realized contextually, dialogically, and complementarily with local traditions, making this celebration a mature model of inculturation centered on Christ.  

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 ecological crisis calls for faith formation that can foster contextual ecological awareness among the faithful. One relevant approach is through catechesis that integrates local wisdom, such as the Batang Garing symbol in Dayak culture. This study aims to explore the ecological values embedded in the Batang Garing symbol and to reflect on them in the light of Church teachings in order to formulate a contextual ecological catechesis model. The method used is qualitative research with a literature study approach, employing descriptive-analytical and comparative analysis of theological and cultural sources. The findings show that Batang Garing contains values of relationality, cosmic balance, and moral responsibility that are aligned with the concept of integral ecology in Church teachings. The integration of these values into catechesis enables a more contextual, communicative, and transformative faith formation. The implication of this study highlights the importance of developing catechetical models based on local culture as an effective means to foster ecological awareness among the faithful and to encourage concrete actions in caring for creation as an expression of faith.

A faith-based marriage strengthening program is essential for building family resilience in urban congregations facing high divorce rates and declining marital quality. This community service activity aimed to revitalize the marital bonds of 22 couples in the Pria Sejati Bandung community and GPPS Agape Bandung congregation through the "Reborn Marriage" program. Using a participatory action research approach, a team of 12 facilitators implemented three main stages: initial coordination to identify needs and plan together with the community; an intensive one-day intervention consisting of teachings on grace, agape love, and divine purpose of marriage, along with testimony sharing, footwashing ritual, and gift giving; and a marriage commitment renewal ceremony. The results showed 100% attendance rate of all registered couples, active participation in every coaching session, and qualitative findings from focus group discussions including renewed spiritual intimacy, mutual forgiveness between spouses, and alignment of marital visions based on divine values. A total of 86% of couples expressed willingness to participate in regular follow-up mentoring, and local leaders emerged among participants who are ready to facilitate small groups after the program. Discussions confirmed that combining biblical teachings on agape love with experiential symbolic rituals can holistically transform marital relationships. This community-based intervention proves replicable in other local communities and churches in urban settings, especially those seeking to strengthen family resilience through integrated pastoral care and participatory action.

This study examines the dynamics of church music regulation implementation in the congregation of the Adventist Secondary School – Surya Nusantara Adventist University (SLA-UASN) Pematangsiantar (September 2022–December 2025). The goal is to describe the implementation of the regulation in worship practices, address challenges, reveal congregational responses, and align local practices with the views of Ellen G. White and official SDA documents. The research employed a qualitative descriptive approach with a case study method; data were collected through in-depth interviews with 16 informants, participant observation, and documentation studies, then analyzed thematically using source triangulation. The results indicate that the regulation originates from church regulations (SDA Church Guidelines) and local policies, but is disseminated orally, resulting in differing understandings. There is intergenerational tension between supporters of traditional music (hymnals) and contemporary music that has not been bridged dialogically. Resistance from music ministers arises from inconsistent implementation and minimal involvement in policy development. Communication between music leaders and ministers remains weak, with no regular evaluation forum, resulting in a continued decline in the quality of music worship. This study concludes that effective music regulation requires clear written documentation, structured intergenerational dialogue, ongoing music theology education, and inclusive and participatory pastoral leadership.

This research aims to examine the values contained in Dalihan Na Tolu through the perspective of Christian eschatology and examine its relevance to the mission of the Catholic Church in society. Dalihan Na Tolu as a socio-cultural system of the Batak community contains the values of respect, solidarity, responsibility, and brotherhood which play an important role in building social harmony. This research uses a qualitative method with a library research approach through the collection of data from various books, journals, Church documents, and scientific sources relevant to the research theme. The results of the study show that the values in Dalihan Na Tolu are related to eschatological expectations in the Christian faith, especially in building a life that reflects the love, brotherhood, and fellowship that God wills. In addition, Dalihan Na Tolu also has relevance in the Church's mission as a means of inculturation in the proclamation of the Gospel that is more contextual in the Batak community. Thus, local culture is not seen as an obstacle to faith, but rather as a means that can support the realization of the values of God's Kingdom in common life.

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.

Paaloka is a religious–cultural practice of the indigenous community of Detunggali Lewumbangga Village that functions as a medium for maintaining relationships with ancestors as well as a means of fostering social solidarity. This study aims to analyze the religious meaning of Paaloka and its relevance from the perspective of Catholic faith and within the local social context. The research employs a descriptive qualitative method, with data collected through observation and in-depth interviews with traditional leaders, church leaders, and community members. Data analysis was conducted through processes of reduction, categorization, and thematic interpretation. The findings indicate that Paaloka embodies religious values such as expressions of gratitude, petitions for blessings, and respect for ancestors, and serves to strengthen communal identity and social cohesion. From a theological perspective, Paaloka can be understood as a space for the inculturation of Catholic faith insofar as it is interpreted as an expression of prayer and lived faith in God without negating the teachings of the Church. This study underscores the importance of dialogue between faith and culture in the development of contextual pastoral practice.

This study examines the relationship between Dayak cosmology and Christian spirituality through the inculturation of the Munjong tradition within Catholic Dayak Tobak communities in Dusun Batu Besi, Desa Sejotang, West Kalimantan. As a post-harvest thanksgiving ritual, Munjong embodies a symbolic framework reflecting the interconnectedness of humans, nature, ancestors, and Jebata within the Dayak worldview. The tradition functions not only as a religious expression but also as a means of preserving cultural identity and fostering social cohesion. Within a predominantly Catholic context, Munjong has undergone reinterpretation, aligning with Eucharistic spirituality as the Church’s central expression of gratitude. Using a descriptive-qualitative approach combined with symbolic interaction analysis, this study shows that the religious values embedded in Munjong, including: gratitude, petitions for protection, and veneration of ancestors as spiritual mediators, correspond with Catholic teachings on divine providence, the communion of saints, and the sacredness of creation. The local Church recognizes Munjong as a cultural practice suitable for inculturation, provided it aligns with Christian doctrine, thereby offering opportunities for contextual liturgy and catechesis. The findings suggest that Munjong can serve as a bridge between faith and local culture while simultaneously reinforcing cultural identity and deepening the spiritual life of the community. The result of this study contributes to the discourse on inculturation, contextual pastoral practice, and strategies for sustaining indigenous traditions amid social change.

This study was motivated by the role of liturgical music as the primary medium of spiritual expression in Pentecostal worship, which is characterised by expressiveness and participation. The purpose of this study was to analyse the presentation of liturgical music and examine how it shapes and represents the spiritual expression of the congregation in the worship services of the Indonesian Bethel Church (GBI) Light Corner in Gorontalo City. The research uses a qualitative approach with a descriptive-interpretative design. Data were obtained through participatory observation, in-depth interviews with worship leaders and congregants, and audio-visual documentation. Data analysis was conducted thematically with reference to musicology, liturgical theology, and cultural studies perspectives. The results of the study show that liturgical music at GBI Light Corner is presented in a structured yet flexible manner, combining contemporary music with conscious liturgical planning. Music serves as a medium for creating a sacred atmosphere, binding the structure of worship, and as the main means of expressing the spirituality of the congregation both personally and communally. These findings indicate that liturgical music not only reflects the spirituality of the congregation but also actively shapes the experience of faith in the context of the local Pentecostal Church. This research has implications for the development of contextual, theological, and reflective liturgical music practices in church life.

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.