Abstract:This study develops an interdisciplinary theological framework that integrates collective memory, a theology of woundedness, and local wisdom as epistemological and pastoral strategies for engaging with social trauma inscribed…
cribed in the communal body of postcolonial and post-conflict societies in Indonesia. Collective memory, as examined by Halbwachs, Assmann, and Volf, is not construed as a mere aggregation of historical facts but as a cultural construction that shapes theological identity through performative, ritualistic, and narrative social processes. The theology of woundedness, informed by the works of Rambo, Moltmann, Jones, and Brock, resists binary categorizations between suffering and salvation, positioning wounds instead as loci theologici—revelatory spaces wherein the Holy Spirit dwells amidst unhealed wounds as a manifestation of divine solidarity and the possibility of redemption. Employing a qualitative-descriptive methodological framework and contextual hermeneutics, this research investigates local narratives, healing rituals, customary symbols, and inculturated liturgies among Christian communities in Ambon, Poso, and East Nusa Tenggara. The findings suggest that local wisdom functions not merely as a cultural instrument but also as a sacramental medium through which the Spirit operates incarnationally. The integration of these three dimensions demonstrates that post-traumatic restoration cannot be reduced to psychological or therapeutic pastoral practices alone; rather, it demands a theologically transformative, contextually rooted, and dialogical articulation of the wounded social body. Within this construct, the Church is envisioned as an anamnetic community that employs collective memory as a praxis of salvation, regards local culture as a spiritual body, and embraces woundedness as a participatory locus within the salvific narrative. Accordingly, this study contributes a novel paradigm for contextual theology and pastoral praxis in multicultural societies marked by the legacy of historical suffering and the urgent need for reconciliation grounded in justice and memory.
Abstract:The participation of women in various spheres of life has witnessed significant progress; however, it is undeniable that patriarchal culture remains deeply entrenched and continues to reproduce discriminatory practices and…
nd violence against women, including through religious interpretation. In many instances, religion inadvertently reinforces gender inequality through scriptural interpretations that are predominantly shaped by male perspectives and patriarchal structures. Therefore, a hermeneutical approach is required, one capable of deconstructing such biases and rearticulating the voices of women in a just manner. This study aims to interpret Song of Songs 3:1-5 through the lens of feminist literary criticism, specifically employing the “woman as reader” approach developed by Elaine Showalter. This approach emphasizes the experiences, voices, and agency of women as subjects within the text. Through the stages of interpretation, narrative deconstruction, and critical evaluation, the analysis reveals that the female character in this passage is portrayed as an autonomous individual who demonstrates initiative and actively expresses her love and longing. This representation subtly challenges patriarchal constructions that traditionally position women as passive objects in gender relations. On the other hand, the text also opens a reflective space to examine how women, consciously or unconsciously, may contribute to the perpetuation of systems that oppress them. Consequently, a feminist reading of Song of Songs not only unveils the emancipatory potential within the biblical text but also offers a critical and transformative hermeneutical framework. This represents an effort to reclaim a gender-just theological space and to reimagine sacred scripture as a site of both spiritual and social struggle toward justice and equality.
Abstract:This research aimed to identify the implementation, optimization, empowerment of technology, to evaluation of the implementation of the integration of Christian Religious Education Learning (PAK) and the Pancasila Student…
t Profile Strengthening Project (P5) in the formation of student character at SMK Kesehatan Reformasi Pontianak. The method in this study is qualitative with a descriptive approach. The results of the study indicate that the implementation of the integration of PAK and P5 that meets students' needs in fulfilling knowledge of divinity and nationality are Worship Together and Reading the Bible, celebrating the Independence Day of the Republic of Indonesia and the Anniversary of Pontianak City, carrying out independent assignments with the substance of divinity and nationality values, holding a Clean Friday agenda, carrying out presentation and group discussion agendas, and implementing a three-dimensional wall magazine and poster making agenda. In addition, the aspect of technology empowerment needs to be optimized in various moments including the creation of digital-based posters and wall magazines as a representation of the agenda that describes the implementation of digitalization elements holistically, and the evaluation of the effectiveness of the integration of PAK and P5 learning in general is not carried out on a scheduled and regular basis, however, intensive communication and coordination between P5 and PAK teachers in order to integrate divinity and national values are carried out, including together with school management.
Abstract:This paper aims to delve deeper into the concept of the leadership of Jesus Christ and analyze it is implications in the contemporary context, particularly within the church environment. From the research findings, it is…
found that the leadership of Jesus not only served as a model for His followers in His time but is also relevant and crucial to be applied in the context of Christian leadership today. This study highlights several key aspects of Jesus leadership, including His character, spirituality, and service. Jesus character in leadership inspires exemplary traits of love, devotion, humility, and integrity, forming the foundation for effective and positively impactful leadership. Furthermore, spirituality of Jesus in leading is reflected in His steadfastness in prayer and in His understanding and teaching of Scripture. Jesus service as a leader demonstrates His commitment to selflessly serve with love and prioritize the needs of others over His own. Through a qualitative approach, this research takes the Evangelical Fellowship Church of Eliezer in a specific region as a case study to illustrate how the application of Jesus leadership principles can yield positive social transformation in a church context. The findings of this research provide significant implications for contemporary church leaders to emulate Jesus leadership in serving the people with love, leading by example, and preparing the next generation grounded in spiritual values and integrity.
Abstract:Pandemic conditions have caused several elements in society, including the economy, health and especially education to change. So that shifts and innovations are needed, one of which is teaching techniques in Sunday school…
ol to help teachers convey the Word of God in class. Such as the use of props that can help teachers convey stories to children in class. The use of props that involve IT or audio visual media-based technology such as videos, televisions, slides is expected to attract children’s attention so that they can understand the essence of the story. The teaching of audio-visual media is inspired by the teaching method that the Lord Jesus applied when teaching the crowds and His disciples, “Look at the birds of the sky who neither plant nor reap nor gather into barns” (Matthew 6:34). In teaching, the Lord Jesus often used natural media as a way for Him to convey His Word. This research discusses the role of audio visual media used by teachers in delivering various topics. This research uses a qualitative approach with descriptive methods. Based on this research, it is concluded that the role of audio-visual media is so great in helping Sunday school teachers in teaching to be easily accepted and understood by children and recorded more easily in children’s memory.
Abstract:Discussion of offerings cannot be separated from the Bible. In the Bible there are teachings about offerings that are worthy before God in both the Old and New Testaments, but does the giving of offerings have an effect…
on the progress of ministry and the spirituality of church members? The aim of the research is to find out, analyze, explore and test the description of the giving of offerings as well as the ministry and the spiritual progress of church members. Obtaining the influence of giving offerings on ministry, as well as the influence of giving offerings and serving on the spiritual progress of church members. This study uses a descriptive qualitative method, by analyzing and explaining the effect of offerings on the progress of ministry and the spirituality of Congregational Members. To be able to carry out effective evangelism, everything must be supported by the power of funding, this can be done through the calling of sacrifice to give offerings. Offerings are a means of funding evangelism to make it more effective. In this case all church members can be involved, and this affects the progress of ministry and spiritual growth.
Abstract:Congregational growth and spiritual development of church members are the primary goals of every religious community. However, the challenges faced by the church today are not solely limited to spiritual aspects but also…
consider management aspects that support healthy and sustainable growth. This paper aims to investigate the implementation strategies of church management theory as an effort to advance congregation growth and enhance individual spiritual quality. The research method used is a descriptive qualitative approach, allowing researchers to delve into the complexity of social situations influencing church growth. By combining data from various sources, including books, scholarly articles, and academic journals, the author presents key principles of church management theory, such as shared leadership, humility, and resource management effectiveness. Furthermore, this paper discusses factors influencing congregational growth, including the significant role of prayer, discipleship, fellowship, and testimony in shaping enthusiastic and committed communities. By applying appropriate strategies supported by strong leadership, churches can achieve meaningful and spiritually significant growth, strengthening the foundation of faith and expanding their influence in society. Thus, this paper provides a comprehensive view of the importance of integrating management theory within the church context and offers practical guidance for churches to reinforce growth and spiritual development efforts.
Abstract:This research investigates the challenge posed by the perceived lack of assertiveness among pastors in disciplining members of the congregation amidst the proliferation of fake news or hoaxes. It delves into the multifaceted…
eted roles of pastors within the church context, the nuanced concept of discipline as it pertains to congregational dynamics, and the pervasive phenomenon of hoaxes in contemporary society. Emphasizing the critical importance of pastors taking proactive measures to address and counteract the dissemination of hoaxes to safeguard the integrity and unity of the church community, this paper employs a comprehensive descriptive research methodology. Through an in-depth exploration of the characteristics and implications of hoaxes, the functions and responsibilities of pastors, and the significance of discipline within the ecclesiastical setting, this study aims to provide valuable insights into the complexities of managing misinformation within religious communities. By synthesizing theoretical frameworks and empirical observations, the paper offers actionable recommendations for pastors to effectively combat hoaxes while fostering an environment of truth, trust, and integrity within the church.
Abstract:Abstract This research explores the influence of organizational culture on church management effectiveness, a crucial aspect in the dynamics of religious life within communities. Through a qualitative descriptive approach,…
ach, we delve into various sources to gain a profound understanding of this phenomenon. Our findings highlight that the church's organizational culture comprises norms, values, and assumptions that shape its unique identity. Dimensions such as communication, training, recognition, decision-making, risk-taking, planning, collaboration, and management practices contribute to this organizational culture framework. Church management effectiveness, as an effort to integrate resources to achieve the church's goals, is influenced by various factors such as organizational characteristics, environment, members, and management practices. The close relationship between organizational culture and church management is key to achieving effectiveness, while weak culture can impede church goals. Furthermore, a positive organizational culture positively impacts church members' performance and creates an adequate religious environment. In conclusion, a strong relationship between organizational culture and church management supports the growth and sustainability of the church in fulfilling its mission and goals. Thus, a deep understanding of the dynamics of church organizational culture can help enhance church management effectiveness and contribute positively to the religious life of communities.
Abstract:Abstract This research discusses the effectiveness of leadership management in the context of a church. The church, as a Christian community, possesses distinct characteristics, including the diverse backgrounds of its members…
members in terms of age, occupation, education, and social status. Unlike other organizations with financial orientations, the church aims to fulfill the spiritual needs of its members, emphasizing a focus on conformity to Christ. Church leaders are expected not only to exercise authority for regulation but also to empower the congregation. Effective church leadership involves empowerment, exploration of potentials, and acceptance of differences. Church leaders play a crucial role in the effective growth of the church, and leadership management is key to achieving the church's vision and mission. The research methodology employed is a qualitative descriptive approach with literature review. In-depth analysis of the concept of leadership management in the church is conducted by connecting information from various sources, including books, journals, articles, and relevant websites. The findings indicate that the understanding of the church involves spiritual and organizational dimensions, necessitating effective leadership management. Leadership centered on biblical values, resource management, and the empowerment of congregation members becomes crucial in attaining church goals. The differences and uniqueness of the church demand leaders to implement suitable leadership styles, such as democracy, to support the potential of each member. From this research, it can be observed that effective leadership management in the church plays a crucial role in achieving spiritual and organizational objectives. Church leaders need to develop strategies in line with the church's characteristics and leverage the potential of congregation members for sustainable growth.