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Divorce is an increasing social reality within Christian congregations, including in Indonesia, bringing profound psychological, social, and spiritual impacts while simultaneously presenting serious challenges for the church's pastoral ministry. This article examines the theological foundation and practical approaches in pastoral accompaniment for congregation members experiencing divorce, employing library research methodology within a pastoral theology framework. The study reveals that the church is called to be present not as a judge, but as a healing, supportive, and restoring community. Effective pastoral accompaniment encompasses empathetic pastoral counseling, a compassionate congregational community, intentional attention to affected children, and a long-term restoration commitment rooted in Gospel grace. The church is called to move beyond stigmatization toward genuine acceptance of wounded individuals, reflecting the redemptive love of Christ. This article concludes that the church's response to divorce must balance biblical integrity with deep compassion, affirming both the sanctity of marriage and the dignity of broken individuals. Thus, the church can become a safe space for every congregation member to experience genuine restoration and rediscover hope in Christ.

This article examines the influence of cell group (komsel) leadership, Christian lifestyle, and discipleship on the growth of the congregation at Christian Ministry Church (CMC) Jakarta. Employing a quantitative correlational design with 140 respondents, the study operationalizes three independent variables (X₁ = cell leadership; X₂ = lifestyle; X₃ = discipleship) against the dependent variable (Y = congregational growth). Pearson correlation analysis reveals significant correlations between cell leadership and lifestyle (r = .800, p < .01) and between cell leadership and discipleship (r = .591, p < .01), whereas direct correlations with Y were non-significant individually. Multiple regression yielded R = .752 and R² = .566, indicating that collectively the three predictors account for 56.6% of variance in congregational growth. These findings reinforce the argument that organic church growth is multidimensional and that the synergistic interaction of cell leadership, moral integrity, and discipleship constitutes a coherent growth ecosystem. Theological and pastoral implications are discussed within frameworks of contemporary missiology and cell ecclesiology.

This article examines the impact of dehumanization in the era of Artificial Intelligence (AI) on the formation of the personality of future priests in light of the teachings of Pastores Dabo Vobis, particular number 43-44, as well as from Philosophical and theological perspectives. The development of AI brings significant changes in the way human think, relate, and build their self-identity. On the one hand, AI offers great opportunities to support intellectual formation through access to information, pastoral simulations, and digital learning. However, on the other hand, the dominance of technology has the potential to cause dehumanization, namely a reduction in the quality of interpersonal relationships, the depth of reflection and sensitivity. This study employs a literature review method, examining relevant theological, philosophical, and scientific literature. The findings indicate that excessive reliance on AI can disrupt the development of the human dimension in seminarians, particularly regarding affective maturity, relational competence, and the integrity of personal identity. From a philosophical perspective, humans are understood as free, rational, and relational beings; thus, reducing humans to mere components of an algorithmic system contradicts their very nature. Meanwhile, theology affirms human dignity as the Imago Dei, which cannot be replaced by technology. Therefore, a critical and prudent formation approach is required, one that positions AI as an aid, not a substitute for human relationships.

The rapid development of Artificial Intelligence (AI) has transformed various sectors of human life, including church ministry and religious organizational management. This study aims to analyze Christian leadership ethics in the use of AI within modern church ministry. The research employs a qualitative descriptive method through theological literature review and analysis of recent studies concerning digital technology and pastoral ministry. The findings indicate that AI provides significant benefits for church administration, digital communication, congregational data management, and online evangelism. Nevertheless, ethical challenges also emerge, such as the weakening of pastoral relationships, data privacy concerns, algorithmic bias, and the risk of dehumanization in ministry practices. From a Christian theological perspective, ministry is fundamentally relational and incarnational, reflecting the example of Jesus Christ who ministered through personal presence, compassion, and direct interaction with people. Therefore, AI should be understood as a supportive instrument rather than a substitute for spiritual authority and pastoral presence. Christian leadership in the digital age must be grounded in integrity, transparency, spiritual discernment, and respect for human dignity as the image of God (imago Dei). This study contributes to the development of ethical guidelines for churches in utilizing AI responsibly while maintaining theological integrity and Christian spiritual values.

Spirituality is a fundamental foundation of congregational faith life that directly influences character formation and daily behavior. However, social, cultural, and technological changes in the modern era have contributed to the weakening of congregational spirituality, including within the GKSI Sungai Maram congregation in Ketapang Regency, West Kalimantan. This condition is reflected in faith practices that tend to be routine and have not yet fostered holistic Christlike character. This community service program aimed to revitalize congregational spirituality as an effort to strengthen character formation and faith through a contextual and participatory approach. The program was implemented through pastoral mentoring, reflective group discussions, prayer fellowships, and community-based faith development activities involving church leaders and congregants. The implementation methods included initial observation of congregational conditions, interviews with church leaders and members, and community reflection as an evaluation tool. The results of the program indicate increased spiritual awareness among congregants, reflected in the strengthening of Christian character values such as love, integrity, responsibility, and social concern, as well as improved relational quality within the congregation. In addition, the program encouraged the establishment of sustainable shared spiritual practices as an integral part of church life. Therefore, contextual and sustainable spiritual revitalization through community service activities serves as an effective strategy for building a congregation that is mature in faith, strong in character, and socially impactful.

The use of gongs and drums in the liturgy of the Catholic Church in Timor is a tangible form of inculturation, which is a process of dialogue between faith and local culture that enriches the spiritual experience and strengthens the identity of the people. Gongs and drums, which in Timorese culture have a symbolic meaning as a means of communication with ancestors and a marker of unity, are presented in the liturgy as a means of spiritual and cultural expression, making the liturgy a meeting space between tradition and faith. This process not only adds an aesthetic dimension, but also deepens the spiritual appreciation of the people and strengthens the liturgical communion. However, inculturation also brings theological and pastoral challenges, such as the risk of syncretism and cultural abuse, so adequate pastoral assistance and liturgical education are needed in order for the process to maintain the integrity of the faith and the values of the liturgical screen. Thus, inculturation is carried out wisely as a means of establishing faith, strengthening the identity of the local Church, and deepening the spiritual experience of the people in the land of Timor.

Divorce has become an increasingly prevalent moral and social phenomenon within modern society, including among Christian communities, with profound implications for family structures, spiritual life, and the church’s testimony in the world. This study analyzes divorce from the perspective of Christian ethics, grounded in a theological and moral reflection on Matthew 19:1–12 as the biblical foundation for understanding marriage and faithfulness. The findings reveal that divorce is not merely a legal or social concern but represents a spiritual crisis and a failure to uphold the sacred covenant established by God. Contributing factors such as infidelity, domestic violence, economic pressure, and weak faith formation erode the moral values of love and fidelity. Christian ethics emphasizes love, forgiveness, and moral responsibility as fundamental principles for healing and reconciliation within broken relationships. The church is called to exercise pastoral responsibility through guidance, counseling, and restoration, fostering ethical awareness and marital integrity among believers. Thus, applying Christian ethics to the issue of divorce is essential for nurturing spiritual maturity, strengthening family unity, and preserving the moral witness of the Christian community.  

This study examines the quality of a servant of God based on II Timothy 1:6–8 as a foundation for church development and spiritual growth. In reality, the role of God’s servant is often underestimated compared to other leadership roles in society, even though their quality greatly influences the life of the congregation and the direction of church ministry. The purpose of this research is to analyze the criteria for a quality servant of God in ministry, particularly in facing the challenges of the postmodern era, when relativism, individualism, and secularism often weaken spiritual commitment. The method used is a qualitative-analytical approach, with the primary data source being the biblical text of II Timothy 1:6–8, supported by secondary data obtained from theological literature, books, and relevant journal articles. Through exegesis and contextual analysis, this study identifies several essential criteria: the rekindling of spiritual gifts, the spirit of power, love, and self-discipline, as well as the courage to endure suffering for the sake of the Gospel. These characteristics are not only theological ideals but also practical demands for ministers who serve in a complex cultural and social environment. The findings of this study are expected to provide theoretical contributions to theological scholarship, particularly in the field of pastoral leadership and ecclesiology. In addition, the study offers practical guidance for church ministers in developing resilience, integrity, and Christ-centered leadership. The implication emphasizes that servant leadership rooted in character, love, obedience, and readiness to endure suffering is essential for strengthening faith, encouraging church growth, and glorifying God’s name. Therefore, the criteria outlined in II Timothy 1:6–8 remain highly relevant as a timeless foundation for effective ministry in the postmodern context

The phenomenon of charismatic pastors who simultaneously serve as merchants represents an increasingly common reality in contemporary Christian ministry, especially within urban contexts where economic and spiritual dynamics are closely intertwined. This dual role reflects both opportunities and challenges for the church, raising important theological, ethical, and practical debates concerning the integrity of pastoral calling in the midst of worldly interests, material pursuits, and potential temptations. On the one hand, the bivocational model may provide pastors with financial independence, reducing the burden on congregations and offering broader opportunities for engagement with society. On the other hand, it also carries the risk of blurring the boundaries between ministry and commerce, thereby creating possible conflicts of interest, diminishing spiritual authority, and weakening the congregation’s trust in pastoral leadership. This study aims to analyze the dual role of pastor-merchant in the light of New Testament theology by identifying potential tensions, examining the relevance of pastoral ethics in guiding decision-making, and evaluating the impact of this dual vocation on the life and witness of the church. Methodologically, this research employs a qualitative literature study, reviewing biblical, theological, and pastoral ethics sources to formulate a comprehensive understanding. The findings suggest that pastoral ethics serve as a vital compass for pastor-merchants, ensuring that ministry remains pure, Christ-centered, and untainted by financial motives. The Apostle Paul provides a theological and practical model for bivocational ministry, demonstrating how secular work and spiritual service can coexist without compromising the divine calling. Furthermore, a healthy, transparent, and accountable leadership framework is essential for sustaining integrity and strengthening congregational trust. Ultimately, this study emphasizes that the identity of the church as “a chosen people, a royal priesthood” (1 Pet. 2:9) must remain the guiding principle, ensuring that the integration of pastoral vocation and marketplace involvement contributes positively to the church’s witness and relevance in modern society.

This paper examines euthanasia from ethical, theological, legal, and human rights perspectives, focusing specifically on the Christian faith. Euthanasia, defined as the intentional termination of life to avoid physical suffering, raises significant moral and legal dilemmas. This study applies a qualitative method through literature review to explore expert opinions, Indonesian legal provisions, and theological foundations based on the Bible. The findings indicate that euthanasia contradicts the core principles of Christian ethics, Indonesian positive law, and human rights values that uphold the right to life. From a Christian worldview, life is a divine gift and should not be ended by human will. Suffering is understood as part of a spiritual journey that carries redemptive meaning. Furthermore, euthanasia presents complex implications not only for the individual undergoing the act but also for families, religious communities, and healthcare professionals. In Christian ethics, life and death are matters of divine sovereignty, and human agency in ending life is considered a violation of God's authority. The legal stance in Indonesia, as reflected in national laws and regulations, clearly prohibits any form of euthanasia, emphasizing the protection of human life as a constitutional right. From a human rights viewpoint, although autonomy is important, it must be balanced with the principle of preserving life. This study suggests that interdisciplinary dialogue involving theology, law, bioethics, and pastoral care is urgently needed to build awareness and offer compassionate responses to end-of-life issues. Churches, educators, and policymakers are encouraged to develop ethical guidelines and pastoral counseling approaches rooted in biblical truth and legal integrity. A wise and faithful response to the problem of euthanasia requires not only empathy but also a clear commitment to uphold the sanctity of life.

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.

In the contemporary Christian context, many churches face a leadership crisis marked by corruption, arrogance, lack of integrity, and resistance to criticism—traits that starkly contrast with the servant-hearted leadership exemplified by Jesus Christ. This study aims to explore the biblical foundation of Jesus’ leadership, both in character and technical dimensions, as portrayed in the Gospel of John, and to examine its implementation within GPdI Betesda Kabanjahe. Employing a qualitative methodology, the research integrates two primary approaches: a theological-biblical analysis and a case study of leadership practices in the local church. The theological dimension focuses on Jesus as the Good Shepherd, emphasizing relational depth, sacrificial service, and intentional character formation of His disciples. The case study approach investigates how these principles are understood and applied by church leaders in GPdI Betesda. Findings reveal two key insights. First, the pastoral leadership model in the Gospel of John presents Jesus as a shepherd who leads through personal connection, selfless sacrifice, and transformative discipleship. While these values are normatively acknowledged by church leaders, their practical application in GPdI Betesda remains partial and lacks systemic integration into the church’s organizational and ministerial structures. Second, pastoral leadership at GPdI Betesda is marked by exemplary behavior and love in service. However, inconsistencies persist in leadership stability, spiritual maturity, and character development. The absence of structured ministry management and leadership formation contributes to these gaps. In conclusion, the study underscores the need for churches to realign leadership practices with the biblical model of Jesus, fostering integrity, humility, and servant leadership. Strengthening character development and implementing structured leadership systems are essential steps toward resolving the leadership crisis and embodying Christ-like shepherding in the church context.

This research is library research or research using library methods, the technique used by the author in collecting data is using sources from books, journals and theses which are related to the topic being studied, namely pastoral care. for divorced church boards. The type of research used in this paper is qualitative research which describes the impact of divorce and shows how pastoral care is present in the life of the church council after the divorce. This research aims to minimize the occurrence of divorce, especially in the life of a church council, in maintaining the identity and integrity of a church council.

The purpose of this study was to examine the factors that influence the lack of Integrity of Elder Service in GKPPD Buluh Tellang. This study uses a descriptive qualitative approach method by conducting interviews with elders in GKPPD Buluh Tellang. The results of the study showed that there were two factors influencing elders, namely internal factors and external factors in carrying out service duties in the church, they must have the intention and courage to serve or carry out God's calling so that through the courage of the elders in GKPPD Buluh Tellang they do not forget the eldership received through external factors. pastoral care is very important in increasing the activeness of the elders in carrying out service, so that through interviews that have been conducted by the author that the elders already have an understanding of their goals as elders and with encouragement from external factors the elders carry out their duties and obligations as good servants and are increasing. The conclusion is that it shows that some elders lack confidence in carrying out their duties and responsibilities as servants because there are several things, namely the lack of confidence of the elders in leading worship (not PD), low human resources of the elders, lack of encouragement or motivation and support from the family and the most unpleasant is the political factor.

The focus of this study is to understand the Book of Canon Law as the internal legal basis of the Catholic Church which regulates ecclesiastical governance and discipline. In the context of its place, the Book of Canon Law has a central role as an instrument that regulates various aspects of ecclesiastical life, from hierarchical organization to liturgy. Its role extends beyond administrative boundaries, making it an important guide in carrying out pastoral duties and maintaining ecclesiastical discipline. The role of the Book of Canon Law is not only limited to internal ecclesiastical aspects, but also influences the church's relationship with wider society. This book reflects the role of the church in regulating the spiritual and moral life of Catholics and maintaining doctrinal integrity. The function of the Code of Canon Law is also to facilitate conflict resolution and uphold justice among church members. The author uses descriptive analysis methods and the Book of Canon Law as a scalpel to explain the contents of the article that will be discussed. In the midst of dynamic social and cultural change, the Code of Canon Law becomes relevant in interpreting and applying moral and ethical principles, which are appropriate in the contemporary context. The harmony between these principles and the challenges of modern times is an integral part of the role and function of the Code of Canon Law in maintaining the identity and mission of the Catholic Church.

Harmonization of traditional leadership, especially through the figure of David, opens up opportunities and challenges in the context of modern pastoral ministry. Values ​​such as courage, perseverance, and integrity serve as inspiration for church leaders. A strategic approach, involving coaching and training, is crucial to integrating these values. Despite challenges and resistance, a deep understanding of these factors helps design effective strategies. By applying values ​​in daily practice, church leaders create enduring, relevant, and inspiring ministries, guiding people toward spiritual growth.

  The life of every God's people is never without serious problems, for example; skeptical of Christ, lack of self-knowledge as God's glorious creation, and doubts about his salvation. Referring to this problem, the writer conducts a theological analysis of the narrative of the Gospel of John. 3:1-21 as an alternative solution to the problem. The alternatives offered by this thought are: as God's people, they must experience spiritual renewal in the sense that they are born again, have integrity and an attitude of life as they are, understand the concept of salvation correctly, and respect themselves as God's precious creation. This study uses a qualitative method with a library approach. The final conclusion of the author about "Effective Pastoral Counseling Services According to the Gospel of John 3:1-21" is, the meaning of Jesus' ministry to Nicodemus contains an understanding that is needed by today's Christians.