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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.

This study aims to examine relevant and effective Christian Religious Education (CRE) learning methods in the digital era. The rapid development of information and communication technology has brought significant changes in education, including CRE instruction. The research method employed is a literature study with a descriptive-analytical approach to various academic sources and technology-based CRE learning practices. The results indicate that integrating digital media such as online learning platforms, Bible-based interactive applications, and social media creatively can enhance students' engagement and understanding of Christian faith values. Furthermore, the use of digital technology opens wider opportunities for contextual and meaningful faith formation across diverse learning environments. The study also identifies key challenges faced by CRE teachers, namely digital readiness, infrastructure limitations, and maintaining relational and spiritual dimensions in virtual learning environments. Teachers must therefore be equipped not only technologically but also theologically to navigate these complexities. The research concludes that the transformation of CRE methods in the digital era is not merely a technology adoption but a holistic theological integration of faith, technology, and pedagogy.

Christian religious education teachers act as agents of social, spiritual, and cultural transformation by integrating Christian values ​​into the lives of communities that are still strongly bound to ancestral customs and beliefs. The transformation of customs through contextual evangelism is both a challenge and an opportunity for Christian religious education (PAK) teachers in carrying out their roles as educators and servants of God in a pluralistic society. This study aims to analyze the strategic steps of PAK teachers in integrating Gospel values ​​with local culture without eliminating the identity of the Christian faith or damaging the noble values ​​of customs. The research method used is a qualitative approach and literature study. The results of the study indicate that PAK teachers need to have three main strategic steps, namely contextual understanding by studying in depth the values, symbols, and practices of local customs, a transformational approach, namely presenting Gospel values ​​through education that respects culture but leads to renewal of life and pedagogical implementation through creative and reflective learning methods that foster students' awareness of faith and social responsibility. With this strategy, Christian Religious Education teachers can become agents of transformation, bridging the gap between Christian faith and local culture, ensuring that evangelism is not confrontational but contextual, dialogical, and builds lives rooted in the love of Christ.

This article examines the dialogue between John Calvin’s educational thought and the Merdeka Curriculum within the context of Christian Religious Education (PAK) in Indonesia. Employing a qualitative-comparative approach with descriptive analysis, this study traces the points of convergence and tension between Calvin’s educational principles particularly the concept of imago Dei, holistic education, and the God-centered purpose of education and the principles of the Merdeka Curriculum such as flexibility, differentiated learning, and the Profil Pelajar Pancasila (Pancasila Student Profile). The analysis reveals significant convergence in terms of respect for the potential and uniqueness of learners, holistic educational orientation, and the role of teachers as facilitators and character formers. However, fundamental tensions also exist regarding Calvin’s theocentric theological foundation vis-à-vis the secular Pancasila foundation, the concept of discipline and authority versus student freedom, and the ultimate goal of education glorifying God versus forming the Pancasila Student Profile. Based on these findings, this article offers practical recommendations for PAK curriculum design based on the Merdeka Curriculum, a Kingdom of God-nuanced project-based learning approach, holistic assessment, and Christian character formation within the Profil Pelajar Pancasila framework. This research contributes to filling the gap in studies that dialogue the Reformed theological tradition with contemporary Indonesian national education policy.

This study analyzes the integration of pedagogical leadership and professional competence in the Christian Religious Education (CRE) learning strategy course among undergraduate students. Employing a quantitative approach with a descriptive-correlational survey design, the research involved 26 respondents. Data were collected using a Likert-scale questionnaire, with the results analyzed using descriptive statistics and Pearson correlation. The findings show that both pedagogical leadership (85%) and professional competence (86%) are categorized as high. The Pearson correlation test reveals a strong and significant relationship between the two variables (r = 0.78). These results suggest that pedagogical leadership and professional competence are effectively integrated in the learning process. The course plays a strategic role in shaping students into professional and reflective learning leaders, providing them with the necessary skills to apply their leadership in educational settings. This integration enhances students' readiness to excel in their future roles, emphasizing the importance of these competencies for becoming well-rounded and effective educators.

Christian Religious Education (PAK) learning is undergoing significant changes in the Digital 5.0 era with the utilization of technology as the main support. This study explores the challenges in Christian learning and explores technological solutions that can improve student engagement and material comprehension. Through the literature study, the main challenges identified include the limitations of traditional learning resources and the lack of attractiveness of the materials. Solutions are proposed by integrating E-Learning, Virtual Reality, Augmented Reality, and mobile applications in the curriculum. Teacher training and support from the community and church are key in implementing this approach. Continuous evaluation and problem solving are the focus to ensure success and sustainability. The results show that technology contributes significantly to creating an interactive and relevant learning environment, building a solid foundation for increased student engagement and understanding of Christian teachings. By stepping with technology, this article presents a foundation for enhancing Christian Religious Education learning amidst the dynamics of the digital world

Middle order thinking skills (MOTS) questions are very important in Christian religious education learning. Evaluation of Christian religious education learning needs to be carried out by educators (teachers) based on each learning material so that students' academic achievement can be achieved well. In general, educators (teachers) do not fully understand the concept of middle order thinking skills (MOTS), as well as low order skills (LOTS) and high order skills (HOTS), so that some students find it difficult to answer questions given by educators (teachers) during learning evaluations. The type of research used is qualitative research with a literature review/literature study approach. The purpose of the study is to explain the understanding of the meaning of MOTS in Christian religious education learning on materials that are in accordance with learning objectives, so that students' academic achievement can be achieved well through learning evaluations. The results of the study are students are able to answer questions well from the middle order thinking skills (MOTS) type of questions when educators (teachers) create learning evaluation questions based on learning materials. Conclusion; To create evaluation questions for Christian religious education learning that students can answer and achieve academic success, ideally, questions should be based on the learning material they have learned.

This study examines the integration of Christian values into the Merdeka Curriculum for Christian Religious Education (PAK) in junior high schools (SMP), focusing on the challenges and strategies for its implementation. The Merdeka Curriculum, introduced in 2022, offers flexibility in instructional design; however, its implementation in the field of PAK requires specific adaptations to maintain the relevance of Christian values such as love, justice, and responsibility. This study employs a descriptive qualitative approach using library research combined with empirical content analysis of various case studies in Indonesian Christian schools. The findings indicate that the primary challenges include resource constraints, the readiness of PAK teachers, technological infrastructure gaps, and the influence of secular digital culture. Effective strategies include the development of a contextual curriculum based on Christian values, the utilization of digital technology in learning, the enhancement of teachers’ professional competencies, and collaboration between schools, families, and churches. The implications of this study suggest that the integration of Christian values into the Merdeka Curriculum can foster the holistic character of junior high school students, equipping them with integrity, resilience, and the ability to face the challenges of the digital age.

The diversity of students’ study motivations in theological higher education presents both challenges and opportunities in shaping the spirituality of prospective Christian Religious Education (CRE) teachers. Not all students enter the CRE program based on a calling to ministry, resulting in varying levels of initial spiritual readiness. This study aims to analyze the process of spiritual formation among CRE students as prospective teachers at STT Katharos Indonesia Bekasi in the context of diverse study motivations, referring to James W. Fowler’s theory of faith development. This research employs a qualitative descriptive approach using observation, in-depth interviews, and documentation involving CRE students. The findings reveal that despite diverse initial motivations, the integrated theological education process through academic learning, ministry practices, community life, and spiritual formation effectively fosters faith growth and personal encounters with Christ. This process contributes to the development of students’ spiritual maturity. The study concludes that CRE education functions as an effective means of faith transformation in preparing prospective teachers with strong spiritual integrity and readiness for ministry.

Christian Religious Education (PAK) plays a crucial role in helping students develop faith based on the truth of God's Word. Therefore, a theological foundation plays a crucial role in the implementation of PAK, ensuring that educational activities are not only focused on knowledge transfer but also directed toward holistically shaping character and strengthening students' faith. This article aims to examine the theological foundation of Christian Religious Education in the process of developing students' faith based on Christian teachings. The method used in this study is literature analysis, examining various theological sources, the Bible, and writings related to Christian education. The findings of this study indicate that the theological foundation of PAK stems from God's calling as a true educator, the example of Jesus Christ as the Primary Teacher, and the role of the Holy Spirit in fostering and maintaining faith. Christian Religious Education based on strong theology can help students experience true growth in faith, internalize Christian values, and implement them in their daily lives.

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 article discusses the role of Christian Religious Education (PAK) in shaping inclusive attitudes of students in the midst of diverse Indonesian society. Using a descriptive qualitative approach, this study examines how PAK can teach the values ​​of love, justice, and respect for differences, and their impact on students' character. The results of the study indicate that PAK not only functions as a transmitter of the doctrine of faith, but also as a means to promote tolerance and interfaith dialogue. Teachers play an important role as facilitators who create a safe and supportive learning environment, and integrate multicultural values ​​into the curriculum. Although PAK faces challenges in the learning approach, collaboration between the church, school, and family can strengthen the impact of religious education. Thus, PAK has great potential in shaping a tolerant generation committed to social justice in a pluralistic society.

Education in the modern era requires students not only to master cognitive knowledge, but also to have the ability to think critically, analytically, creatively, and problem solving skills independently. Therefore, the application of the Problem Based Learning (PBL) model and the Learning Strategy for Improving Thinking Ability (SPPKB) is considered relevant and ideal in the context of Christian Religious Education (PAK) to integrate faith values with the reality of daily life. This study uses a literature study method by examining scientific journals, books, and academic articles to analyze the definition, essence, characteristics, and steps of PBL which include the introduction of authentic cases, problem solving, investigation planning, independent learning, solution synthesis, presentation of results, and reflection. PBL has proven to be effective in increasing learning motivation, collaboration, and internalization of Christian moral values, although it has limitations in the relatively long time requirement and the demands of teacher competence as facilitators. Meanwhile, SPPKB emphasizes intellectual stimulus, exploration of ideas, data processing, in-depth analysis, and metacognitive reflection to form a systematic and independent mindset in dealing with religious ethical issues. These two student-centered learning strategies complement each other in forming students who are dynamic, reflective, critical, and responsible as Christian personalities through flexible and contextual learning adaptations in PAK.

The era of globalization presents serious challenges for Christian Religious Education (PAK) through the currents of value relativism, consumerism, and digital influences that threaten the formation of the spiritual character of the younger generation. This study aims to analyze strategies for integrating spiritual values ​​into Christian Religious Education (PAK) to ensure its relevance and effectiveness in facing the dynamics of the times, with a focus on a holistic approach that combines a contextual curriculum, hybrid learning media, faith-based digital literacy, and strengthening teacher competencies. The research method uses a qualitative descriptive approach based on library research through thematic content analysis of books, scientific journals, and related literature. The results indicate that effective integration of spiritual values ​​through strategies such as interactive digital learning, school-church-family collaboration, and systematic evaluation produces students who are strong in faith, critical of global influences, and ethical in character. In conclusion, the need for ongoing synergy to shape a generation of Christians who are adaptive and imbued with integrity in the era of globalization is emphasized.

This study aims to analyze how the implementation of the Kurikulum Merdeka supports the cultivation of Christian moral values among senior high school students in Christian Religious Education (PAK) classes. Using a library research method, the study reviews various written sources including books, scholarly articles, and curriculum documents to obtain a comprehensive understanding of how Christian values are integrated into PAK learning. The findings reveal that the Kurikulum Merdeka provides wide opportunities for student-centered, contextual, and character-oriented learning through the Profil Pelajar Pancasila (P5) Project. Christian values such as love, honesty, responsibility, forgiveness, and compassion can be internalized through intracurricular, co-curricular, and experiential project-based activities. The role of teachers as moral exemplars is crucial in guiding students’ character formation. The study also identifies several challenges, including the influence of digital culture, lack of role models within families, and limited instructional time. In conclusion, the implementation of the Kurikulum Merdeka has significant potential to foster Christian character in students, yet requires collaborative support from schools, families, and churches to achieve maksimal outcomes.

This study aims to examine the contribution of educational psychology in the context of Christian education, particularly for educators, school principals, Christian Religious Education (CRE) teachers, Sunday school teachers, pastors, elders, and church servants. This theoretical study shows that educational psychology helps in understanding the characteristics of learners, optimizing teaching methods, building effective teacher-student relationships, and enhancing motivation and involvement in the learning and preaching process. The research method used is a descriptive qualitative approach, collecting data through a review of books, literature, journals, notes, and relevant reports. Educational psychology plays a significant role for all those involved in Christian education and ministry. CRE teachers and Sunday school teachers have a crucial role in instilling faith values in the younger generation by understanding the learning needs of children according to their cognitive and spiritual development stages. This enables them to deliver God's word in an engaging and meaningful way. Meanwhile, pastors, elders, and church servants require an understanding of educational psychology to carry out more wise pastoral ministry. Psychological understanding helps them provide spiritual guidance, counseling, and support for members who are struggling. Educational psychology also equips church servants to lead with empathy, listen with their hearts, and guide the congregation towards true spiritual restoration. The integration of educational psychology with Christian faith significantly impacts the improvement of learning and church ministry, producing individuals who are intellectually, emotionally, and spiritually balanced.

Christian Religious Education (PAK) research in Indonesia has undergone significant developments, but its future direction and relevance are still crucial questions. This article aims to map the PAK research landscape and identify key challenges and opportunities through a literature review of publications in national and international journals, theses, and dissertations. The analysis is focused on three aspects: dominant themes, methodology, and contextual relevance. The findings show the dominance of conventional themes such as teaching methods, curriculum, and the role of teachers, with a qualitative approach limited to case studies, making generalizations difficult. Contemporary issues such as religious pluralism, digital media, Generation Z spirituality, integration of faith and knowledge, and inclusive approaches in multicultural contexts are still underexplored. This article proposes the reorientation of PAK research through an interdisciplinary approach (theology with psychology, sociology, media studies), methodological strengthening (longitudinal and mixed-methods studies), and emphasis on Indonesia's socio-cultural reality as a starting point. With this strategy, PAK's research is expected to be able to expand its theoretical contribution while answering practical challenges in shaping the character and spirituality of students in the era of modernity.

Learning fatigue is a serious challenge in the world of education, including in Christian Religious Education (CRE) subjects. The purpose of this study is to analyze the effectiveness of active learning methods in overcoming learning fatigue among students in CRE subjects. Furthermore, it aims to provide theoretical and practical contributions to the field of basic education, particularly in formulating more adaptive, interactive, and psychologically appropriate learning approaches. This article employs a qualitative research method by analyzing the effectiveness of active learning methods as a solution to address such boredom. Active learning methods, which include strategies such as group discussions, simulations, role-playing, and project-based learning, have proven to increase students' cognitive, emotional, and social engagement. In addition to providing an enjoyable learning experience, this approach also reinforces Christian values in the context of PAK learning. This article concludes that active learning is not only capable of reducing learning boredom but also improving the quality of the learning process holistically. Therefore, teachers need to continuously develop their pedagogical and spiritual competencies to achieve transformative PAK learning that frees students from boredom. This study is expected to serve as a practical reference for teachers and policymakers in designing relevant, interactive, and contextual learning strategies. Moreover, the implementation of active learning methods in CRE subjects can also foster a deeper connection between students and the spiritual teachings of Christianity. By engaging students through hands-on activities such as role-playing biblical stories or collaborating on projects related to Christian values, students are encouraged to actively reflect on their faith in a more meaningful and personal way.

This study aims to explore the relationship between work motivation and discipline on the performance achievement of Catholic Religious Education (PAK) teachers in the Semarang region. The research uses a quantitative survey approach, collecting data from 15 PAK teachers through a validated questionnaire. The instruments used to measure work motivation are based on Maslow’s hierarchy of needs for the motivational aspect, while discipline is measured using indicators developed by Rivai, and performance achievement is evaluated based on parameters defined by Robbins. The findings show that motivational drive contributes 50.5% to performance achievement (R² = 0.505, p = 0.003). This indicates that work motivation has a significant impact on performance, although its contribution is lower compared to discipline. In contrast, discipline contributes more significantly to performance achievement, accounting for 66.2% (R² = 0.662, p = 0.000). This suggests that discipline is a more dominant factor in improving the performance of Catholic Religious Education teachers, as discipline is critical in achieving optimal performance. Simultaneous analysis reveals that the combination of motivation and discipline explains 72.6% of the variation in performance achievement (R² = 0.726, F = 13.893, p = 0.000). This result indicates that both variables are significantly related to performance achievement when considered together. However, partial tests show that only discipline has a significant independent impact on teacher performance, with p = 0.121, while motivation does not have a significant effect when considered separately. This study concludes that discipline functions as the main mediator in the relationship between work motivation and performance achievement. Therefore, it is essential to strengthen discipline in efforts to improve teacher performance, particularly in the context of Catholic Religious Education.

This study explores the philosophical and theological implications of John Dewey's pedagogical thought, particularly his emphasis on reflective practice and experiential learning, within the context of Contemporary Christian Religious Education (PAK). Despite its potential to foster active, student-centered learning, a significant gap exists in deeply examining how Dewey's principles align with or challenge PAK's theological aim of faith formation. This qualitative library research, employing Miles and Huberman's data analysis model, addresses this gap by synthesizing Dewey's pedagogical concepts with the Christian theology of spiritual growth, particularly informed by 1 Corinthians 3:6, which posits that God gives the increase. The findings reveal that Dewey's experiential learning framework can profoundly enrich PAK by shifting the teacher's role from a primary knowledge dispenser to a facilitator who guides students in applying biblical truths to real-life experiences. This approach encourages holistic development encompassing cognitive, affective, and psychomotor domains. However, the implementation necessitates a robust theological filter, maintaining that biblical truth is final and acknowledging God's sovereignty in true spiritual growth. The study concludes that while Dewey's pedagogy provides practical strategies for student engagement and character development, its successful integration into PAK hinges on a clear understanding of its theological boundaries, ensuring that pedagogical flexibility is balanced with doctrinal integrity. This research offers a theoretical foundation for transformative PAK practices, aiming to cultivate knowledgeable Christian students with deep and active faith.