The purpose of this study was to analyze and evaluate the implementation of pastoral care in the church for congregations grieving due to death, and to understand the extent to which the congregation's understanding of the religious concept of death influences the way pastoral care is implemented and its impact on the grieving process. The research method used was descriptive qualitative, with data collection techniques through interviews, observations, and documentation studies. This study also aims to identify practical challenges faced in the implementation of pastoral care, especially in situations of sudden or complex death. The results of the study indicate that pastoral care in GKPPD Lae Salak needs to be improved in terms of the skills and knowledge of pastoral care workers in order to provide more effective support. This study provides benefits by providing input for the church to improve its pastoral care strategy.

This study focuses on the concept of salvation by grace as taught in Romans 3:23-26 and its relevance to the understanding of the GKPPD congregation today. Through a literature review with a theological approach, it was found that the doctrine of salvation by grace is the core of Christian teaching. In this passage, the Apostle Paul explains that all humans have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God (Romans 3:23). However, salvation is given through redemption in Christ Jesus, not as a result of human effort, but as a gift of God alone (Romans 3:24). Salvation is given through faith in the blood of Christ which redeems and takes away sin (Romans 3:25). In the context of the congregation today, the understanding of salvation by grace remains relevant. Many GKPPD congregations are still trapped in trying to obtain salvation through or obedience to the law, even though Romans 3:23-26 emphasizes the importance of faith in Christ's redemptive work. This study highlights that teaching about God's grace should foster a sense of gratitude, humility, and commitment to living in faith, not in fear or legalism. This study confirms that the concept of salvation through grace is the center of Christian faith teachings that need to continue to be lived and conveyed in the lives of the GKPPD congregation today and increase theological knowledge about the concept of salvation and can be a reference for theology students and reading materials in the IAKN Tarutung library.