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The study aims to analyze the role of digital media as a distracting factor affecting the faith loyalty of Catholic adolescents in their relationship with God amid religious pluralism in Indonesia. The development of digital media has transformed how adolescents understand, express, and live out their faith, while simultaneously presenting both opportunities and ambivalent challenges. This research employs a qualitative approach using a library research method, analyzing various theological, sociological sources, and Church documents. The findings indicate that digital media can serve as a broad and participatory space for expressing faith, but it also has the potential to create distractions in three main dimensions: cognitive, affective, and practical. Cognitively, adolescents experience confusion in understanding faith teachings due to the diversity of information available. Affectively, there is a shift in orientation from a relationship with God toward the pursuit of emotional gratification in digital spaces. Practically, there is a decline in engagement in concrete religious practices. Within the context of religious pluralism, this complexity intensifies and influences the formation of adolescents’ faith identity. This study also finds that digital media does not only have negative impacts but also holds positive potential as a means of deepening faith when used critically and reflectively. Therefore, the role of the Church is essential through contextual, dialogical, and integrative pastoral accompaniment combined with critical digital literacy. Through this approach, adolescents are expected to integrate their digital experiences into a more mature, authentic faith life rooted in a deeper relationship with God.

This study examines eschatology within the framework of Catholic faith as a reflection of faith and hope of salvation, not merely as a depiction of the end times. The background highlights the need to avoid reducing eschatology to a sole event of judgment day, by emphasizing the close relationship between eschatology, Christology, and soteriology, as well as the role of faith in the daily life of Catholic believers. The aim of the study is to articulate eschatology as an integrative framework that connects faith, hope, love, sacraments, liturgy, and inculturation in the Church’s praxis, and to consolidate the active participation of the faithful in the Kingdom of God, which has been initiated but not yet completed. The research method is descriptive-analytical literature review, comparing the views of experts, the Church Magisterium, and contemporary liturgical and theological documents to construct a comprehensive theoretical framework. The main findings indicate that Catholic eschatology functions as a moral and spiritual engine: (1) it integrates the “already and not yet” in the experience of faith; (2) it links eschatological hope with the actions of love, justice, and social liberation; (3) it bridges private faith with sacramental practice and inculturation. Theological and pastoral implications include strengthening faith formation, participation in liturgy, and an imaginative response to present-day social and environmental challenges. This narrative affirms a living, inclusive, and relevant eschatology for the Church’s life of faith in the contemporary era.

This research examines digital charity practices within Christian media communication on YouTube, focusing on two distinct donation formats: marapthon live stream donations (e.g., 24‑hour fundraising events) and sermon‑based donations (offerings collected during or after online worship services). Despite the rapid growth of faith‑based online giving, a critical problem remains: the absence of an integrated system that aligns these two donation models with Christian values of transparency, accountability, and community stewardship. Existing platforms often treat live marapthon and sermon donations separately, leading to fragmented donor experiences and inefficient fund utilization. Therefore, this study aims to develop a conceptual framework for an integrated digital charity system by comparatively analyzing media communication strategies in both donation contexts. The proposed method is a netnographic comparative analysis, involving systematic observation of YouTube comments, chat logs, and video descriptions from 10 Christian channels (5 marapthon‑focused, 5 sermon‑focused) over six months, supplemented by semi‑structured interviews with content creators and donors. The main findings reveal that marapthon donations emphasize urgency and real‑time social proof, while sermon donations rely on theological framing and pastoral trust. The synthesis proposes a hybrid system architecture incorporating real‑time donation tracking, automated acknowledgment, and weekly theological reflection modules. In conclusion, integrating both models into a single development framework enhances donor engagement and aligns digital charity with Christian communication ethics, offering practical guidelines for church‑based YouTubers and platform developers.

This research is motivated by the reality of ethnic and cultural diversity in congregation life which reflects the dynamics of a multicultural society, where differences in cultural identity have the potential to cause social friction if not managed wisely. This research uses a descriptive qualitative approach with normative studies, with data collection techniques through interviews, observations, and documentation of informants consisting of pastors, congregation councils, and presbyters. The theory used is Ralph Linton's role theory which explains how individuals carry out social functions according to their status in society. The results of the study indicate that the life of the GMIT Sion Oepura congregation is characterized by multicultural dynamics as seen from the diversity of ethnicities such as Timor, Rote, Sabu, Flores, and Alor which not only enriches church life through cultural expressions in worship and church activities, but also gives rise to symbolic friction between ethnic groups, such as the tendency for the dominance of certain cultural symbols and the emergence of group ego attitudes in several worship activities, for example in the celebration of Language and Culture Month. In this situation, religious leaders play a role as leaders who embrace diversity, mediators in managing potential conflicts, and social and moral role models for the congregation through sermons, pastoral guidance, and various service activities that involve the entire congregation without differentiating cultural backgrounds. Despite the existence of cultural differences and the tendency for certain symbolic dominance, religious leaders are able to manage this diversity normatively so that it does not develop into open conflict. This study concludes that the role of religious leaders is very important in strengthening social solidarity and maintaining harmony in multicultural congregations.

. The rapid development of artificial intelligence (AI) has brought significant changes in various fields, including education and church life. This study aims to examine the dynamics of the formation of prospective catechists in facing the challenges of AI use at the IPI Malang Pastoral College. This study used a qualitative, descriptive approach, through observation and interviews with students as research subjects. The results show that the use of AI has become an integral part of the learning process, helping students understand material, develop academic skills, and enhance creativity in the pastoral field. However, the use of AI also poses challenges in the form of a tendency towards instantaneous attitudes and potential dependency that can hinder critical thinking skills and deep reflection on faith. In the context of pastoral education, the formation of prospective catechists emphasizes not only intellectual aspects but also spirituality, personality, and pastoral sensitivity. Therefore, the wise and proportional use of AI is necessary, while still positioning it as a supporting tool, not a substitute for human roles. The role of lecturers and educational institutions is crucial in guiding students to be able to use technology critically, reflectively, and responsibly. Thus, the integration of technology and faith values ​​is expected to produce prospective catechists who are able to respond to the challenges of the times in a relevant and meaningful manner.

This PKM examines the transformation of traditional burial practices in Terusan Village, Ketapang Regency, West Kalimantan, in light of 1 Timothy 6:7. The local community has a tradition of accompanying and placing all the personal belongings of the deceased on the grave as a form of respect and the belief that the deceased's spirit needs these items to prevent them from returning angry. This belief is reinforced by the community's past spiritual experiences, including the testimony of traditional leaders about dreams in which the deceased's spirit asks for their belongings. Using a theological and anthropological approach, this PKM assesses this tradition in relation to the biblical teaching that humans bring nothing into or out of the world. Using theories from theologians and anthropologists, this PKM formulates a dialogical, inculturative, and transformative spiritual development strategy, so that local culture can be guided without experiencing rejection. This PKM concludes that changes in burial practices must be carried out with a pastoral approach that emphasizes the value of spiritual wealth, the hope of resurrection, and an understanding of death in Christ. Thus, local traditions are not erased, but are guided toward new meanings that align with God's Word, leading the community from cultural heritage to genuine spiritual transformation.

This article examines the theological thought of Saint Cyprian of Carthage, one of the third-century Church Fathers, within the context of the Church’s situation in his time, which was marked by profound struggles of faith, particularly the experience of persecution. The focus of the discussion is directed toward the historical and pastoral conditions that shaped Cyprian’s views on the unity of the Church, episcopal authority, and the validity of the sacrament of baptism. Accordingly, this article raises several key questions: What historical background formed Cyprian’s thinking on these three concepts? What were the central ideas he developed regarding ecclesial unity, episcopal authority, and baptism? And how are his ideas relevant to the Church’s teaching, especially in light of the Second Vatican Council? Using a historical and hermeneutical approach, this article traces Cyprian’s life background as well as his pastoral-theological responses to the concrete situations faced by Christians in his time. In the context of the post-persecution crisis, Cyprian played a significant role in addressing internal divisions within the Church, particularly debates concerning the readmission of the lapsi (those who had apostatized). From these struggles, it becomes evident how Cyprian firmly articulated the role of bishops as successors of the apostles and emphasized the sacrament of baptism as the legitimate gateway into ecclesial communion. Based on the historical background of Cyprian’s thought and these three central themes, the article then examines the contribution of Cyprian’s theology to the teachings of the Church as formulated in the Second Vatican Council. Thus, Cyprian’s thought is understood not only as a foundation of early ecclesiology, but also as a living source of faith reflection that remains relevant for the contemporary Church in responding to the dynamics and challenges of the modern age Keywords: Cyprian of Carthage, ecclesiology, unity of the Church, episcopal authority, sacrament of baptism, Second Vatican Council.

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.

The disruptive era, characterized by rapid technological advancement, shifting social paradigms, and the globalization of ideas, presents a profound challenge to Christian Education, particularly in the realm of sexual ethics. The pervasive visibility of the LGBT phenomenon often creates a reactive response within Christian communities, leading to a perceived dichotomy between upholding biblical authority and extending Christ-like compassion. This article argues that this disruption should not be viewed merely as a threat but recognized as a Kairos moment a critical and opportune time for theological and pedagogical renewal. Employing a methodology of theological reflection and conceptual analysis, this study explores how Christian educators can move beyond polarized debates to reconceive their role. It proposes a framework for fostering a sexual ethic that is simultaneously biblically grounded and pastorally compassionate. This involves a deliberate rethinking of pedagogical approaches that engage students in critical dialogue with both Scripture and contemporary culture. The article contends that an authentic biblical ethic is not merely about prohibition but about forming disciples who understand God's design for human flourishing, relationships, and sexuality. By seizing this Kairos moment, Christian Education can empower students to navigate a complex world with convictional clarity and empathetic grace, thereby transforming a challenge into a catalyst for a more holistic, effective, and faithful ministry.

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

This article explores the spirituality of the bate symbol within the context of the blessing of Catholic church buildings in Tana Toraja as a concrete form of inculturation of the Christian faith into local culture. Originally, bate functioned as a religious symbol in traditional Toraja ceremonies for inaugurating tongkonan (ancestral houses). Over time, however, this symbol has been adopted and reinterpreted in Catholic liturgical celebrations, particularly during church blessing rituals. The study employs a qualitative method using a literature review and applies Paul Ricoeur’s hermeneutical framework, which consists of three stages: the world of the interpreter, the world of the text, and appropriation. The analysis reveals that bate can be understood as a cultural text rich in spiritual meaning. Traditionally, it symbolizes a connection between heaven and earth as well as cosmic power. Within the perspective of Christian inculturation, bate undergoes symbolic reinterpretation, representing values of faith such as the Trinity, the cross, the Eucharist, the Holy Scripture, and Jesus Christ as the mediator of salvation. The incorporation of bate in Catholic liturgy is not merely a cultural adaptation but a tangible manifestation of the encounter between faith and culture, achieved in a contextual and symbolic manner within Torajan society. This study affirms the significance of inculturation in proclaiming the Gospel in a way that is relevant and grounded, without compromising the core essence of Catholic faith. Furthermore, it recommends further research on other local symbols to enrich the dialogue between faith and culture in pastoral contexts.

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk menganalisis peran gembala dalam menumbuhkan iman jemaat berdasarkan Mazmur 23:1–6. Gembala dalam konteks Alkitab dipahami sebagai figur yang menuntun, melindungi, dan memelihara umat Allah, yang dalam pelayanan gereja diterjemahkan melalui pengajaran, konseling, teladan hidup, dan strategi pastoral. Penelitian ini menggunakan pendekatan kualitatif dengan metode deskriptif, di mana data diperoleh melalui studi literatur, observasi, wawancara, dan dokumentasi di lingkungan Gereja Gerakan Pentakosta (GGP) Sanggabuana. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa gembala memiliki peran penting sebagai teladan rohani, pembimbing iman, serta fasilitator transformasi jemaat melalui strategi penggembalaan yang efektif. Peran ini berdampak pada meningkatnya kesetiaan, kerendahan hati, serta keteguhan iman jemaat dalam menghadapi tantangan kehidupan. Dengan demikian, dapat disimpulkan bahwa keberhasilan pertumbuhan iman jemaat sangat ditentukan oleh kualitas penggembalaan yang dijalankan oleh gembala sidang secara konsisten dan kontekstual.

Mission constitutes a fundamental dimension of the Catholic Church’s identity, intrinsically linked to the divine mandate to participate in God’s work of salvation in the world. Within this framework, the consecrated life of the Congregation of the Missionary Sisters Servants of the Holy Spirit (SSpS) embodies a distinctive expression of Trinitarian spirituality and a prophetic missionary vocation. In the context of Timor Island, this charism is concretely manifested through ministries that directly engage with the realities of local communities. This study adopts a qualitative methodology with a literature review approach, drawing on theological sources, congregational spirituality, and the SSpS Constitution to explore the theological and practical dimensions of the sisters’ mission. The research aims to analyze how the life and apostolate of the SSpS Sisters serve as a tangible witness to the presence of the Triune God, particularly through works in education, healthcare, social services, and pastoral ministry. The findings indicate that the sisters’ mission is deeply rooted in a faith experience centered on the Most Holy Trinity, which shapes their incarnational and intercultural approach to ministry. Their service reflects a prophetic commitment to empowering marginalized communities, promoting human dignity, and fostering social transformation. Furthermore, the integration of religious vows with active engagement in societal issues illustrates a spirituality that bridges contemplation and action, grounded in both fidelity to the Gospel and responsiveness to contextual needs. In conclusion, the consecrated life of the SSpS Sisters on Timor Island stands as a visible and dynamic sign of God’s salvific and prophetic presence. Through their holistic and transformative ministries, they contribute significantly to the mission of the Church and the common good of society, embodying a vision of the “civilization of love” rooted in Trinitarian communion and expressed in concrete service to humanity.

This service to the Pringgolayan Catholic community aims to renew their understanding of the liturgy (especially the eucharist). The main focus of the reform is the liturgical system according to the General Guidelines for the Roman Missal. Through observations that took place from January 2024 to June 2024, the population identified a gap between the knowledge, understanding and liturgical practices of Pringgolayan Catholics. Some people do not even understand the liturgical movements they perform while participating in the liturgical celebration. This service is carried out by combining dialogic lectures, questions and answers, and observations of the course of the event. The results of this activity consist of liturgical catechesis content on TikTok Komsos Pringgolayan and increasing people's understanding of the liturgy. This increase can be seen in the quality of question and answer discussions and the number of uses of technical liturgical terms in subsequent liturgical celebrations. The commitment and consistent presence of the participants is one of the challenges for this activity considering that it takes place every Sunday at 9.00 - 10.30 WIB, from August 2024 - November 2024. On the next occasion, this activity can be carried out again with a time setting that takes up less time

Every human being has a different past. Of course, past experiences are various. There are beautiful past experiences and vice versa, depending on what happened. Usually the past that seems very painful, is very difficult to forget, until it leaves a mark in the mind and is difficult to forget. The impact is very large, it can lead to prolonged trauma. To treat it certainly takes a long time and requires pastoral counseling. Counselors must have the expertise to help the client heal the trauma wound. There are various effects of trauma, but in this case, the author specifically examines the trauma caused by being bitten by a dog. For that reason, in this section, the author wants to examine "Assistance Efforts for Miss "Y" who experienced Trauma Due to Being Bitten by a Dog on Sibandang Island".

Generation Z is the generation born between 1997 – 2012, who in 2023 will be 11 – 26 years old (Beresford Research). Some of Generation Z in 2024 will be teenagers. During this time, teenagers often face difficult times in finding their identity. Especially in generation Z, who were born in the midst of very rapid developments, especially in the internet era, which requires teenagers to be able to master it well. Along with the positive impacts that occur, negative impacts also affect teenagers today. The challenges and challenges faced by teenagers can have a negative impact on their future success. Therefore, there is a need for mentors around them to direct them. Faith is the basis that generation Z must have to be able to adapt in the search for identity and compete in a very rapid era of development. In this way, the Church plays a very important role in building the growth of faith of generation Z. This faith growth research was carried out at the JKI Mahanaim Church in Blitar City, East Java in order to increase the growth of faith of generation Z in the internet era in Blitar City and form a new concept in the world of pastoral ministries. This research uses a literature study method with a qualitative and descriptive approach. Researchers used James W Fowler's theory of faith growth to determine indicators of Generation Z experiencing faith growth. From the results of this research, it is hoped that Church Leaders and Mentors will pay special attention to the growth of faith and ways to build the faith of Generation Z.

This study examines the dynamics of Christian families in navigating modern lifestyles, focusing on the congregation of GKII Efata Bonet Engkabang. Modernity characterized by digitalization, high mobility, economic pressure, and shifting social values has significantly influenced family communication patterns, emotional relationships, and spiritual formation within Christian households. The purpose of this study is to describe the changes experienced by congregational families in the context of modernity and to analyze the role of pastoral counseling as a relevant form of support for family well-being. This research employed a descriptive qualitative method, collecting data through in-depth interviews, limited observations, and a review of church documents. The findings indicate that Christian families face challenges such as declining communication quality, reduced family time, the pervasive influence of gadgets on daily interactions, and weakened spiritual disciplines. Furthermore, shifting parenting patterns and increasing psychological pressure also affect family stability. Within this context, pastoral counseling in GKII Efata Bonet Engkabang plays an essential role in providing spiritual, emotional, and practical guidance through empathetic, relational, and faith-based approaches. Pastoral care has proven effective in helping families realign life priorities, strengthen communication, and cultivate sustainable spiritual practices. The implications of this study highlight the urgency of enhancing structured family support programs in the church, improving pastoral leaders’ capacity as counselors, and encouraging families to develop healthy digital discipline to maintain relational and spiritual quality amid the demands of modern life.

The problems faced by adolescents at home are problems between adolescents and their parents or vice versa, problems between parents and children (teenagers). Parents are examples and role models for children (teenagers). To be an example for children (teenagers) parents must be able to build a harmonious attitude in the family, and instill religious values not only through words but what children (teenagers) need most, namely concrete actions. That is why the role of parents in the family is very important. Because following the times, the challenges are getting tougher and advanced as well. Parents are required to understand the flow of the times, to master as much as possible to help children (teenagers) lead a life on the right and right path. Parents should not neglect the education and guidance of their children, because of the busyness and demands of work. Two things that are equally heavy, equally important and equally valuable for family happiness.

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.

This research examines debates among the early congregation regarding Jewish religious morality and ceremonies and their implications in the context of contemporary church pastoring. Through a critical historical exegesis approach and literature study, this article explores the views of Paul and Peter regarding the application of Torah law to Gentile Christians. This research highlights that a pastor must be an example for the congregation, not rule arbitrarily, and remain focused on God's call in their ministry. Analysis of the social, economic, and cultural context of the time this letter was written also provides insight into the challenges the early congregation faced. The relevance of this research lies in the application of pastoral principles in today's church ministry, which demands humility and example from church leaders.