Perspektif, Jurnal Agama dan Kebudayaan diterbitkan untuk menjadi medium diskusi dan kajian ilmiah atas isu-isu agama dan kebudayaan, dengan mengedepankan perspektif toleransi dan dialog lintas agama dan budaya untuk membangun harmoni sosial. Jurnal ini menerbitkan tulisan-tulisan ilmiah baik yang merupakan hasil penelitian lapangan maupun kajian pustaka, terbuka untuk kalangan akademisi, peneliti, pemerhati sosial dan agama serta masyarakat umum. Jurnal ini terbit dua kali setahun yakni bulan Juni dan bulan Desember.
Aditya Wacana Pusat Pengkajian Agama Dan Kebudayaan
Tinjauan Buku: A New Politics of Identity: Political Principles for an Interdependent World
Copyright (c) 2008 Gabriel Faimau https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Menyama Braya Sebagai Upaya Membangun Kerukunan Hidup Umat Beragama di Bali
Living in harmony with one another is one of the main problems in our modern society. To promote such a humane life, especialy in this mobile and multicultural society, should be the effort of everybody. People of every kind of social life and religious background are expected to offer their contribution for bonum commune (common good), particularly in treating others as neighbours. In fact, every religion and culture has inherently such value which enculturates its members to treat others as their brothers and/or sis- ters. This paper highlights one of the Balinese traditional values, the so-called 'menyama braya way of thinking and of behaving, which means 'living together as brother and sister'. This kind of local genius - although menyama braya sounds out of date - seems to be needed in our more and more intolerant society. Basically menyama braya (brotherhood or sisterhood), which springs out of the heart of Balinese religious culture that has enculturated its people for centuries, promotes harmony in the society, where everybody could feel at home and lives comfortably. The writer encourages everybody of good will to elaborate again and again this human value, primarily in and for Balinese context and also within our multicutural society of today.
Copyright (c) 2008 Paskalis Nyoman Widastra https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Mencari Spiritualitas Misioner Komunitas Basis Gerejawi
The article describes that Basic Christian Community is primarily the real way of being Church. It is the actual community of Christ that inspired and oriented by the teaching and life example of Jesus Christ (e.g. Matt 5-7; Lc 6:20-21.24-25). In this sense, it is an alternative and prophetic community, a kind of 'counter culture' that lives out radical values which are contrary to most values of other human communities. Exactly in this way that Christian community will be able to realize its mission to be a lumen gentium and gaudium et spes for the world. In so doing Christian communities are expected to initiate and promote transformation of the local society and the world in general. The writer also highlights the need to consider Basic Christian Community as a 'school of dialogue' for the Christians. Exactly in this very place they are called to learn from one another the way to internalize Christian values, a 'new' way of living and believing in a humane community. He believes that everybody who is serious about his/her Christian faith will be committed in the twofold calling, namely communio et missio. Meaning, being Church is being for others, for the Church exists is not only for herself (communio), but primarily for the salvation of the world (missio). Therefore, the writer tries to propose the so-called mission spirituality for the life of Basic Christian Community, which is the spirituality of discipleship.
Copyright (c) 2008 Raymundus Sudhiarsa https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Post Kolonialisme dan Perdebatan Islam Modern di Belanda
Postcolonialism is not only an important issue in the cultural debate about countries that were subject to colonialism. It is quite interesting to see how the former colonial powers now look at the enduring influence of the colonial experience. Is the American aspiration to be the dominating power in the world partly a result of a lack of colonial experience? Do they not realise how difficult it is to rule over foreign nations? What is the ongoing impact of the colonial rule in the European countries? In the Netherlands the influence seems to be quite restricted. Indonesia is part of the discourse about the Dutch past, but the Dutch look at their colonial past from their own perspective. It is mostly related to the small group of people who repatriated from the former colony. This is shown in the national monuments related to the colonial past. In economic fields the colony could easily be superseded by other rela- tions. Most important is the religious issue. In the present debate about the new Muslim population in the Netherlands similar issues are important as during colonial rule. Although not often openly said, the same attitudes are shown of a very close and concerned intervention in religious affairs. A nice comparison can be made between the 6% Muslim Dutch minority in a majority Christian country and the 9% Christian Indonesian minority in an overwhelming Muslim society.
Copyright (c) 2008 Karel Steenbrink https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Muhammad SAW Sebagai Peletak Dasar Pemerintahan Pluralistis Dalam Islam
Socio-historical setting of Madinah, which was more opened and more cosmo- politan compared to Mecca, was the basic capital for the success of Muhammad in building pluralistic governmental base. The emergence of Madinah consti- tution which involved all Madinah's elements (Muslim and non-Muslim groups) was taken as the tenet of building well-established socio-political system ensuring the equality for all. Considering the admittance of equality, all ele- ments of Madinah held commitment and loyalty toward the prophet leadership. Therefore, they built and created great civilization.
Copyright (c) 2008 Umi Sumbulah https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
The description of the freedom of how to practice the religion in Indonesia as the author reflects on it in the light of the official documents is a stepping stone to go deeper into the important insight to the relationship between religion and ideology. The freedom of practicing the religion should be based on the correct understanding of the essential difference between religion and ideology. The author attempts to elaborate both of them separatedly in order to gain the genuine insight to the basic essential difference between them. The essence of religion is reflected in the line of tracing linguistic meaning of two words "agama" and "religion" back to the traditions which have provided them the frame of understanding to the meaning of these two terms. In a similar way, the meaning of ideology is depicted in the historical context of its use for the certain interest and authority. The last part of this article shows up the author's effort to pound on the unavoidable and proper relationship between religion and ideology by pointing out the process of the ideologization of religion we have to avoid of. The process of ideologization of religion can lead us to the misunderstanding of these two fields -religion and ideology as if both of them were the same.
Copyright (c) 2008 Donatus Sermada https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
This essay deals with three contemporary world phenomena and the interplay between them. Those are prophetic dialog, the new concept of missionary work as the missio Dei, and the globalized world as a context where both prophetic dialog and God's mission are to take place. Prophetic dialog and the missio Dei emphasize the primacy of God's initiative, in which the Christians in general and the missionaries in particular are involved as mere partici- pants. The concept of prophetic dialog brings into relief social groups that become the main partners in the dialog. The concept of missio Dei is under- pinned by the notion of the Kingdom of God in the present ecclesiology. Kingdom of God is supposed to be larger, more fundamental, and more deep- going than the Church. There are therefore universal Catholic Church and a global world in which the church is to work. This essay tries to show that there is a common denominator between the religious social movement as a driving force of globalization and the missionary work though they aim at different goals. Whereas globalization might lead to a world market and world life style, the missionary work aims to unite all nations in the Kingdom of God.
Copyright (c) 2008 Ignas Kleden https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Book Review: Kepada yang Terhormat: Surat kepada Filsuf, Teolog, Sosiolog, Pedagog, Inventor, dan Sastrawan
Copyright (c) 2026 Arsenius Salvator Agas https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
The Dynamics of Interaction Between Religion and Local Tradition: An Analysis of the Presence of the Catholic Church and the Customary Law of the Kutai Lawas Kedang Ipil Community
This article aims to analyze the dynamics of the encounter between the Kutai Lawas Kedang Ipil customary law (adat) and the presence of the Catholic Church, specifically within the context of pastoral care and faith inculturation. The Kutai Lawas community is known for possessing a strong customary system, rich in noble values such as reverence for ancestors, communal solidarity, and the sacredness of the relationship with nature. These values form the foundation of the local community's social and spiritual life. The arrival of the Catholic Church among the indigenous people did not automatically displace long-established traditions; rather, it sought to build dialogue and openness through an inculturation approach. In this process, the Church endeavors to address local culture with the spirit of the Gospel, respecting local wisdom without sacrificing the truth of the Catholic faith. This paper highlights various forms of inculturation that have occurred, such as the use of local symbols in the liturgy, the involvement of traditional leaders in church activities, and spiritual dialogue that brings together customary values and the Gospel. Nevertheless, this process is not without its challenges, both theological and pastoral, particularly when certain customary elements conflict with the tenets of the faith. In this context, critical analysis and pastoral accompaniment are essential so that the custom and the Gospel can truly proceed hand-in-hand. The article concludes with a call for the Church to continue being present contextually and dialogically, enriching the faith life of the people without erasing their local cultural identity.
Copyright (c) 2026 Paulinus Siringoringo https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Blood As Memory: A Philosophical Study of Genetic Consciousness and Ancestral Relations in Timorese Culture
This article arises from a reflection on Timorese culture, which perceives blood as a symbol of connection with ancestors through rituals of remembrance. The purpose of this study is to reinterpret the meaning of blood not merely as a biological or ritual element but as an existential reminder affirming the continuous relational bond between the living and their ancestors. Using a relational philosophical approach (Levinas, Marcel) and incarnational theology, this analysis employs literature review and symbolic interpretation. The results reveal a new ethical dimension; the relationship with ancestors does not rely on ritual performance but on genetic awareness embodied in the descendants. In conclusion, blood becomes a symbol of relational consciousness that transcends biological and spiritual boundaries, affirming the human responsibility to live out ancestral values as the truest form of remembrance and respect
Copyright (c) 2026 Bernabas Unab, Yogina Maria Saapan https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Ecumenical Worship and Its Impact on the Integrity of the Christian Faith
This study aims to examine ecumenical worship and its impact on the integrity of the Christian faith within the context of increasingly plural ecclesial life. Ecumenical worship is understood as a form of interdenominational liturgical encounter that expresses the call to Christian unity, as encouraged by various official Church documents. However, this spirit of unity is accompanied by a firm insistence that participation in the ecumenical movement must not lead to doctrinal compromise or the relativization of the teachings of the faith. This research employs a library research method by examining official Church documents, theological works, and relevant academic literature. In particular, the analysis focuses on Church teachings that promote involvement in the ecumenical movement, such as the document Unitatis Redintegratio, while also providing theological boundaries to safeguard the purity of the faith. The approach used includes theological, historical, and critical-reflective analysis in order to identify the balance between the demand for unity and fidelity to the teachings of the faith. The findings of this study indicate that ecumenical worship, as supported by official Church teachings, has a positive impact in strengthening awareness of the unity of the Body of Christ, fostering mutual respect among denominations, and enriching the faith understanding of believers. Nevertheless, the Church also clearly warns of potential dangers, such as doctrinal compromise and the relativization of the truth of the faith, if ecumenical practices are not carried out with theological prudence. Thus, the integrity of the Christian faith is understood as fidelity to the core teachings of the faith, which goes hand in hand with openness to ecumenical dialogue. This study affirms that ecumenical worship can make a positive contribution to the life of the Church when it is carried out in accordance with official Church guidelines, balancing the spirit of unity with a commitment to the authenticity of the faith.
Copyright (c) 2026 Dian Labo Mengkala, Hendrikus Rinaldi Amsikan https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
The Concept of Pericoresis of The Trinity According to Leonardo Boff and Its Relevance to The Community Life of Religious People
This article focuses on an attempt to analyze the relevance of Leonardo Boff’s concept of the perichoresis of the Triune God to the communal life of religious communities. The analysis is conducted using an interpretative-conceptual approach to identify the connection between Trinitarian perichoresis and the dynamics of communal life. This research employs a literature review method, examining Leonardo Boff’s major works as well as supporting literature related to religious community life. The research results indicate that the concept of perichoresis, which emphasizes the mutually permeating relationship within the unity of love between the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, holds significant relevance for the renewal of religious community life. In the light of this concept, the uniqueness of each community member can be acknowledged without undermining unity, whilst equal relationships are maintained despite differences in roles and responsibilities. Furthermore, perichoresis also fosters a spirit of cooperation in ministry as a concrete expression of a living communion. Thus, the concept of perichoresis not only holds theological value but also offers a practical model for a more dialogical, inclusive, and love-based communal life.
Copyright (c) 2026 Dionisius Sunardi, Yulius Defri Sudi https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Manggarai Culture as a Space for Interfaith Dialogue in a Multireligious Society
This article explores the role of Manggarai culture as a framework for facilitating interfaith dialogue in the Manggarai region. The primary focus of the research is to understand how local cultural values in Manggarai can act as a bridge enabling people of different faiths to interact harmoniously. Although religious diversity exists within Manggarai society, this article seeks a deeper understanding of how local culture can unite them through symbols, traditions, and religious practices that collectively form the foundation for dialogue. This is important due to the scarcity of research specifically highlighting the role of Manggarai culture in the context of interfaith dialogue. By focusing on this gap, this study opens the door to a deeper understanding of the contribution of local culture to the formation of positive and inclusive interfaith dialogue. The research method employs an anthropological qualitative approach that details religious practices and cultural values playing a key role in bridging understanding between different religious groups. Findings from this study indicate that Manggarai culture plays a significant role in facilitating interfaith dialogue in Manggarai. Furthermore, Manggarai customs that value diversity are also a crucial factor in fostering harmonious interfaith dialogue. This enriches interfaith dialogue theory through contextual and “lived religion” approaches. This study reinforces the idea that socio-cultural spaces can function as “shared spaces” that transcend the boundaries of religious identity.
Copyright (c) 2026 Kristinus Sembiring, Yulius Edward Indra Doris, Yohanes Alfrid Suardi Aris, Elisabeth Serfiana Asti https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Fostering Brotherhood in the Light of Faith: The Spirit of Cooperation among the Dayak Wehea People in the Ministry of St. Maria Ratu Damai Nehas Liah Bing Parish
The article entitled "Establishing Brotherhood in the Light of Faith: The Spirit of Gotong Royong Dayak Wehea in the Service of the Parishioners of St. Maria Ratu Damai Nehas Liah Bing” highlights the integration of local cultural values and the spirit of Christian faith in church life. Gotong royong, as a cultural heritage of the Dayak Wehea tribe, is not only a pattern of community life, but also a collective force that sustains the service and involvement of the people in various pastoral activities in the parish. Through a reflective and contextual approach, this paper highlights how the Church is present not only as a messenger of faith, but also as a protector of noble cultural values that support the realization of true brotherhood. The integration of gotong royong and the teachings of Christ's love shows that culture and faith can work in harmony, enrich each other, and become the basis of the spirituality of living together. Thus, people are invited to build a living Church, rooted in culture, and based on love, service, and solidarity as a tangible manifestation of brotherhood in the light of faith.
Copyright (c) 2026 Gregorius Rivaldo Junior https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
A Study of The Sacrament Tree Program in St. Anthony of Padua Parish, Mbeling, From The Perspective of Leonardo Boff’s Eco-Spirituality
This article aims to examine the Sacrament Tree Program in St. Anthony of Padua Parish, Mbeling, from the perspective of ecotheology, with particular attention to Leonardo Boff’s eco-spirituality. The Sacrament Tree Program forms part of the local Church’s efforts to respond to the ecological crisis while fostering ecological awareness among the faithful in caring for and preserving God’s creation. This study employs a qualitative research design using a phenomenological approach, which focuses on the lived experiences of parishioners and pastoral agents in understanding and implementing the Sacrament Tree Program. Data were collected through interviews and a critical reading of Leonardo Boff’s ecotheological thought. The findings of this study indicate that: (a) the Sacrament Tree Program helps believers to recognize the importance of caring for the environment, affirming that ecological responsibility is an integral dimension of Christian faith and moral commitment; (b) the program serves as an educational medium that fosters a relational ethos and an awareness of the interdependence of all creation; and (c) the program extends beyond an ecological initiative, engaging the spiritual praxis of the faithful and strengthening their commitment to caring for the earth as a common home.
Copyright (c) 2025 Patrisius Epin Du, Ferdinandus Panggung https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Love as The Experience of God in Saint Titus Brandsma
This study explores love as a transcendent experience of God in the life of Saint Titus Brandsma, often reduced to mere moral sentiment or social affection. Addressing the increasing secularization of the concept of love, this research re-examines its mystical dimension as both contemplative and active. The sentral question concerns how love can be lived as a personal encounter with God, and how this was manifested in Brandsma’s life, particularly amid suffering and resistance against totalitarian ideologies. The study employed a qualitative-descriptive method using a spiritual theological and phenomenological approach to religious experience, based on literature review of Titus’s writings, Church documents, and spiritual theology sources. The findings reveal that Brandsma perceived love as an integration of contemplation and concrete action, love that fosters a personal relationship with God and encourages engagement with suffering and social justice. Love, in this context, emerges not only as a virtue but as a transformative spiritual power rooted in deep faith. In conclusion, Brandsma’s understanding of love exemplifies a mystical-contemplative spirituality that remains relevant for the Church and contemporary society, offering a profound response to violence, hatred, and spiritual dryness in the modern world.
Copyright (c) 2025 Ignasius Liberto Sando Kota https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Midodareni in the Perspective of the Sacrament of Marriage of the Catholic Church
As a student of Catholic Religious Education, the author views Midodareni as one of the Javanese cultural heritages that contains spiritual and moral values in harmony with the teachings of the Catholic faith. This tradition is carried out on the night before marriage as a form of prayer and a request for blessings for the bride and groom. Through a descriptive qualitative study based on library research, this paper aims to explore the theological meaning and relevance of the Midodareni tradition in the light of the Catholic sacrament of marriage, as well as to highlight how the process of faith inculturation takes place in the lives of Catholics in Java. The findings show that Midodareni is not merely a cultural ritual but a living expression of faith, where the values of holiness, fidelity, prayer, and hope in God’s grace form its central meaning. The Catholic Church, through the spirit of inculturation, values local culture as a means of bringing the Gospel into the life of the community without diminishing the truth of faith. As a future Catholic religious educator, reflecting on this tradition fosters an awareness that the proclamation of faith cannot be separated from the cultural context of the faithful. Therefore, understanding Midodareni is not only an effort to preserve culture but also a concrete form of faith education that is contextual and rooted in the values of humanity, love, and God’s salvation.
Copyright (c) 2025 Skolastika Dinda Ayu Maharani, Pius Intan Sakti X, Emmeria Tarihoran https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Anti-Corruption Philosophy: Unpacking the Desire for Power, the Pursuit of Pleasure, and the Animalistic Side of Human Nature Behind Corruption
Copyright (c) 2025 Stefanus Fernandes, Veronika Alviran Lembunai https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Tebe Dance in the Perspective of Public Theology: Theological Meanings of Solidarity and the Acceptance of the Other
The Tebe dance, as one of the cultural heritages of the people of East Nusa Tenggara, particularly in Belu, represents not only an aesthetic artistic expression but also embodies profound social and spiritual dimensions. The circular formation in the Tebe dance symbolizes fraternity, togetherness, and solidarity, creating a space of encounter between individuals and the community, including relationships with the Other. This article aims to examine the theological meaning of the Tebe dance from the perspective of public theology and its relevance for Christian praxis in the social sphere. This study employs a qualitative approach through a theological–conceptual reflective method that integrates cultural analysis with the framework of public theology. The findings indicate that the Tebe dance can be understood as a symbol of faith praxis that embodies Gospel values such as solidarity, inclusivity, and openness to diversity within a pluralistic society. The dance presents a dialogical form of public theology rooted in local culture, in which faith is expressed not only within liturgical spaces but also through concrete social relationships. The scholarly contribution of this article lies in enriching the discourse of contextual public theology by offering a theological reading of local cultural practices as a medium for articulating and embodying a living and socially relevant faith.
Copyright (c) 2025 Paskalis Rivaldo Ghari https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Understanding the Adi Beren Tradition in Dayak Krio Culture as a Development of Character Education for Krio Youth
The focus of this research is to understand the Adi Baren tradition as character education for Krio youth. Dayak Krio culture has various traditions that are rich in noble values, one of which is the Adi Beren tradition. The Dayak Krio tradition is a traditional ceremony that aims to strengthen social ties and instil moral values in the young generation of Dayak Krio in order to form young Krio people who have sensitivity to the needs of others and care for the environment. This paper aims to understand the meaning and significance of the Adi Beren tradition in the development of character education for Krio Dayak youth. The research method used is qualitative method from various sources such as scientific journals, books that can support this paper. The results showed that the Adi Beren tradition contains noble values such as solidarity, mutual cooperation, responsibility, and respect for nature. These values can be integrated in the development of character education for Krio Dayak youth, so as to strengthen cultural identity and prepare the next generation with noble character.
Copyright (c) 2026 Fransiskus Ajai, Pabianus Prayoga, Edmundo Harry Satria Putra https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
This article discusses and explores the vision of a missionary parish. It does so in three sections: First, it discusses the understanding of a missionary parish based on a scriptural foundation in the Acts of the Apostles, the Pauline metaphor of the Body of Christ, and Paul’s strategy of mission. Second, it presents Pope Francis’ insights on the theme of the missionary parish in his apostolic exhortation, Evangelii Gaudium. Third, it explores the ideas of four contemporary missiologists and theologians regarding the missionary Church and its implications for the understanding of a missionary parish.
Copyright (c) 2024 I Wayan Heriyanto https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Uncovering The Wisdom of Proverbs 2:1-22 In The Motto of The Dayak People: “Adil Ka'talino, Bacuramin Ka'saruga, Basengat Ka'jubata”
This article focuses on Dayak slogans that are now emerging to the surface. This research explores the relationship between cultural traditions, scripture, and moral principles that develop among Dayak people. The novelty of this research is that it offers an intertextual way of reading, namely how Catholics read sacred texts by living them in their cultural context in social life which is so closely related to the ancestral tradition of living in harmony between tribes. This study uses a qualitative approach with a literature review method. The analysis was conducted to understand how local cultural values are integrated with religious teachings in the context of daily life. The findings of the study prove that the Dayak people are able to transform the tradition of violence and shamanism into a motto of unity (Adil ka' Talino), which reflects universal goodness and justice and abandons evil things that harm fellow humans. Thus, life must be harmonious and peaceful (Ba' curamin ka' Saruga). The value of Ba'sengat ka' Jubata reflects a higher spiritual consciousness, where people are completely dependent on the God they call (Jubata), because this life breathes from His power. This motto not only serves as a cultural identity but also as a tool to build social harmony in the midst of the diversity that exists in Kalimantan.
Copyright (c) 2025 Jakarias, Gregorius Tri Wardoyo, Antonius Denny Firmanto https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
The Meaning of the Expression ‘Meup on Ate, Het Bukae on Usif’: An Analysis of Hans-Georg Gadamer’s Hermeneutic Philosophy of Language Applied to the Dawan Language (Uab Meto)
Language functions not only as a means of communication but also as a medium for transmitting values, worldviews, and collective wisdom within a community. One such example is the traditional Dawan expression “Meop on ate henati, bukae on usif,” which embodies values of work ethic, humility, and social honor. However, the philosophical meaning of this expression is often understood normatively and has rarely been examined through the lens of philosophical hermeneutics. This study addresses the problem of how the expression can be interpreted from Hans-Georg Gadamer’s hermeneutic perspective and what philosophical values it represents as an expression of the Dawan people’s way of life. This research aims to interpret the meaning of “Meop on ate henati, bukae on usif” and to reveal its philosophical and cultural significance. This study employs a qualitative approach using Gadamer’s philosophical hermeneutic method, involving textual analysis of the cultural expression, in-depth interviews with traditional leaders and native speakers, and observation of its socio-cultural usage. The findings indicate that the expression constitutes a living cultural text containing an ontological dimension of language, reflecting work ethic as a path to honor and prosperity, and functioning as a medium of moral education and intergenerational transmission of values within Dawan society.
Copyright (c) 2026 Amon Bernabas Tenis https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
An Exploration of the Concept of God's Sovereignty in Human Suffering
This paper aims to explore the kingship of Jesus within the context of human suffering, focusing on how the power of God remains present even amid situations of apparent powerlessness. Employing an analytical approach to the Gospel of John, this study examines the dialogue between Jesus and Pilate as well as the symbolism of the crown of thorns, which both highlight the nature of His regal identity. The methodology combines textual and theological analysis, emphasizing the Christological dimension that links Jesus’ suffering to God's salvific plan. The findings reveal that Jesus’ authority as King is not expressed through domination but is manifested through sacrifice and humility. In His experience of suffering, God demonstrates that He does not remain passive but actively engages in the redemption of human affliction. This paper concludes that the self-offering of Jesus redefines the meaning of suffering and invites readers to recognize God's presence in the midst of life’s trials.
Copyright (c) 2025 Yetva Softiming Letsoin, Elicia Kusuma, Paulus Febrinam Merong https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
The Discourse of Religion and Politics in a Democratic State: The Relevance of Habermas' Thought and Political Ethics for Indonesia
The relationship between religion and politics in Indonesian democracy often generates tension, particularly due to the dominance of majority groups that influence public policy and restrict the freedoms of religious minorities. This article aims to analyze how the thought of Jürgen Habermas can be used to examine and critique the religion–politics relationship within the context of Indonesian democracy. Four core principles of postsecularism—mutual learning, the translation of religious language into secular language, bonum commune, and state neutrality—are employed as the theoretical framework to evaluate non-inclusive democratic practices. This study uses a qualitative approach based on literature review and case analysis, including restrictions on the construction of houses of worship and the politicization of religion during elections. The study shows that Habermas’s ideas can be used to build a political ethics in Indonesia, but they require adaptation to the complex local socio-political realities, including the strong presence of religious identity in the public sphere. Thus, the article concludes that Habermas’s thought is relevant for constructing a more deliberative and inclusive political ethic in Indonesia, and offers a new philosophical approach for criticizing religious exclusivism within majority-rule democracies.
Copyright (c) 2025 Agrindo Zandro, Matias Rico Adi Prasetyo https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
The Concept of Catholic Church Leadership According to Anthony D’Souza Perspective and Its Contribution to Church Leaders in Indonesia
This study examines the concept of leadership in the Catholic Church based on Anthony D’Souza’s perspective and its contribution to Church leaders in Indonesia today. The leaders referred to in this study are Catholic priests. Anthony D’Souza emphasizes that leaders in the Catholic Church are called to serve. A servant leader fully dedicates themselves to serving God and others. This study highlights several key issues in Church leadership. First, some leaders exhibit authoritarian tendencies, failing to adopt a servant attitude and instead abusing their power. Second, some leaders prioritize personal interests over their congregation, neglecting their pastoral responsibilities and failing to provide the necessary guidance and development. Third, some leaders lack administrative discipline, creating opportunities for corruption. Therefore, a deeper understanding of the concept of leadership in the Catholic Church is expected to foster greater awareness among leaders in carrying out their pastoral duties within the community. This study aims to explore Anthony D’Souza’s leadership concept and its relevance to Church leaders in Indonesia. The research employs a qualitative approach using a literature study, drawing from Anthony D’Souza’s works and other relevant literature on leadership in the Catholic Church. The findings indicate that, according to Anthony D’Souza, the essence of leadership in the Catholic Church is centered on three fundamental aspects: being a servant, a shepherd, and a steward.
Copyright (c) 2025 Yeremias Nino, Henderikus Ati Fahik https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Book Review: The Political Conspiracy: A Critical Review of the History of Life and the Faith Journey of the Nai Meko Tribe
Copyright (c) 2025 Hendrikus Rinaldi Amsikan, Dian Labo Mengkala https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Transformation of Student Services: Sowing Inspiration Through The Legio Maria Pastoral
This study will aim to look at the role played by the activities of the Legion of Mary towards the development of student ministry in the Pastoral Ministry Study Programme of STP-IPI. God created humans to depend on each other, and service is a tangible manifestation of mutual need. The spirit of proclamation, instilled by the good news and the sacrifice of Jesus, is the inspiration of the Church and everybody who is part and parcel of it; this encompasses students in the STP-IPI Pastoral Ministry Study Programme. Some factors, both intrinsic like personal interests and extrinsic like dependence on technology and pressure from academics, deny many of the students the opportunity to be actively involved in this service. Legion of Mary activities become a way of awakening and invigorating that spirit of service to Jesus in students. This research uses a quantitative method with an approach called quantitative description. The result shows that these activities hold an important role in forming students' services and are important in shaping characters and awareness of the importance of quality service.
Copyright (c) 2025 Yoseph Kami, Fabianus Selatang https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
The Interpretation of Truth in the Digital Sphere: A Hermeneutic Analysis Based on Paul Ricoeur
The focus of this study is “Interpreting Truth in the Digital Space: A Hermeneutic Analysis of Paul Ricoeur”, analyzed through various written sources. This study explores how the concept of truth in the digital realm can be understood through the lens of Paul Ricoeur’s hermeneutics. The research employs critical reading and textual analysis as its methodology. This approach examines the concept of truth in relation to Paul Ricoeur’s philosophy, particularly in the context of the digital space, which increasingly dominates the process of meaning-making and interpretation. This study finds that digital device users can easily produce news that often contradicts reality. Fake news and hate speech are frequently perceived as legitimate and accepted as truth, ultimately compromising the very foundation of shared life. The dominance of digital media has reshaped truth standards—not only as a supporting tool but also as a factor that can hinder and even distort the understanding of truth. Paul Ricoeur’s hermeneutic philosophy offers an approach to understanding this phenomenon. As a theory of interpretation, hermeneutics plays a role in uncovering implicit meanings and clarifying ambiguous messages. Therefore, issues in the digital space can be addressed more wisely, depending on how individuals interpret the information presented by digital media. This study reveals that while the digital space provides freedom of expression, it also presents new challenges in understanding truth. The dominance of digital media in shaping public opinion has the potential to erode the very meaning of truth. Thus, Paul Ricoeur’s hermeneutic perspective can serve as a bridge for navigating the complexities of interpretation in the digital age, helping individuals critically assess and filter information.
Copyright (c) 2025 Stefanus Fernandes, Dian Labo Mengkala, Oktafiana Blandina Vianey https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
The Meaning of Christian Brotherhood In The Tu Ju Rite In The Community of Lisabheto, Flores, From The Perspective of The Gospel of Luke 17:1-6
This article focuses on exploring one of the local wisdoms, namely the Tu Ju rite of the Lisabheto community, Wolowiro Village, Paga District, Sikka Regency, East Nusa Tenggara and reinterpreting it from a Christian perspective by taking the biblical basis of the Gospel of Luke, 17:1-6 as a reference. The problem of this research is how to translate the meaning of the Tu Ju ritual into the appreciation of fraternal life in the Lisabheto community? The research purposes is for the Lisabheto community to find correlation between the Tu Ju ritual and the enhancement of the Christian faith. The method used in this research is qualitative approach and field observation. This research data was obtained from direct interviews with key informants who understand the Tu Ju rite. The results of the research show that in the Tu Ju rite in the Lisabheto community there are Christian values, especially the value of brotherhood which is useful for a harmony and peaceful life together.
Copyright (c) 2025 Yoseph Kua, Paskalis Lina https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0