Search

The present time in Nigeria and globally has been more perilous than ever, characterized with bizarre occurrences within the church and the larger society. This study explores the Pauline eschatological prediction of the perilous times when men will become lovers of self, lovers of money, and lovers of pleasure more than God (II Timothy 3:1, 2 & 5). Experiential and theological methodologies were adopted for generating qualitative primary and secondary data. The theological aspect of the research employed the tools of biblical exegesis, textual analysis, and literatures. The experiential aspect involved in-depth interviews (IDIs), observations, social media contents and Focused Group Discussions (FGDs) to access current events and personalized experiences of respondents who were purposively selected from within and outside the church. The results were discussed in the light of Christian theology, social ethics and Pastoral ministry. The Nigerian society is evidently witnessing the perilous times when love of self, money and pleasure will become the untoward defining features of human society and sadly too, of men that profess the faith. Transactional gospel, gimmickry, merchandize of holy things, and self-indulgent love of money are rife in the contemporary church. Ostentatious lifestyles, lack of support for the minister at the local church, and false messages on material blessings are what trap church ministers and laypersons in this end-time evil. The context and practice of ‘full time’ ministry when the local assembly is not able to support its minister is a challenge that predisposes some to ‘Simoniacal’ presentations, offering the gifts of God for monetary gain. Sound biblical teachings to protect the people of God and expose the mercenary spirit in sacred function is the local church most potent weaponry.

The ecclesial community's call to duty and ability to carry out its mission is centered on how relevant it must become to the existential realities of those living in the public sphere. Jürgen Moltmann makes what can only be considered as a concise statement when he states that, to make Christianity accessible to the masses, theology must openly uphold the universal concerns of God's coming Kingdom. The church, following its own faith principles, must demonstrate "general concern in the light of hope in Christ for the kingdom of God" by becoming "political in the name of the poor and the marginalized in a given society, by thinking critically about the religious and moral values of the societies in which it exists." Christian theology continues to be the mouthpiece of the church. This article's goal is to discuss Jürgen Moltmann's straightforward explanation of the church's public relevance in helping people remember why it exists in all forms of human sociality. This article's reflections aim to highlight the fact that the Christian church can only be seen to be fulfilling its mission when it is perceived as the voice of the voiceless, bringing God's fullness to human flourishing, and providing true meaning to human tranquillity in a difficult and uncertain world.

Effective communication occurs if students understand the meaning of the message conveyed by the teacher. If the delivery made by the teacher is not good, there will be a misunderstanding. This study aims to analyse how a Christian teacher can help students learn to communicate effectively. A descriptive qualitative research methodology utilizing literature studies was employed. In the era of postmodernism presenting various truths in assessing the actions taken, it is hoped that Christian teachers will be able to have the right foundation in acting. So, it is possible to build effective communication so that teachers, serving as guides, can understand and appreciate the needs of students, use media, explain messages clearly, and be humble. The conclusion is that Christian teachers as guides can have the right value of truth in building effective communication, namely looking at students as images of God. This is in line with the characteristic of Christian ethics, namely love. So, Christian teachers can love students so that they develop their abilities as a form of responsibility for the potential given by God. One of the ways that teachers do this is by choosing words in delivering messages to students related to assignments. The advice given is to choose a theory that is relevant to effective communication problems in learning so that it can analyze more deeply and find concrete solutions that can be applied to the role of teachers as guides. Bahasa Indonesia Abstract Komunikasi yang efektif terjadi ketika siswa memahami maksud dari pesan yang disampaikan oleh guru. Jika penyampaian yang dilakukan oleh guru tidak baik, maka akan terjadi kesalahpahaman. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk menganalisa bagaimana seorang guru Kristen dapat membantu murid-muridnya untuk belajar berkomunikasi secara efektif. Metodologi yang digunakan dalam penelitian ini adalah kualitatif deskriptif dengan menggunakan studi literatur. Di era postmodernisme yang menghadirkan berbagai kebenaran dalam menilai tindakan yang dilakukan, diharapkan para guru Kristen dapat memiliki dasar yang benar dalam bertindak. Dengan demikian, dimungkinkan untuk membangun komunikasi yang efektif sehingga guru yang berperan sebagai penuntun dapat memahami dan menghargai kebutuhan siswa, menggunakan media, menjelaskan pesan dengan jelas, dan rendah hati. Kesimpulannya adalah guru Kristen sebagai penuntun dapat memiliki nilai kebenaran yang tepat dalam membangun komunikasi yang efektif, yaitu memandang siswa sebagai gambar Allah. Hal ini sejalan dengan ciri khas etika Kristen, yaitu kasih. Jadi, guru Kristen dapat mengasihi murid agar mereka mengembangkan kemampuannya sebagai bentuk tanggung jawab atas potensi yang diberikan Tuhan. Salah satu cara yang dilakukan guru adalah dengan memilih kata-kata dalam menyampaikan pesan kepada siswa terkait tugas. Saran yang diberikan adalah memilih teori yang relevan dengan masalah komunikasi efektif dalam pembelajaran sehingga dapat menganalisa lebih dalam dan menemukan solusi konkrit yang dapat diterapkan pada peran guru sebagai penuntun.

First Corinthians 14:33-35 reveals one of the many controversies about the roles of women in ministry in the church today. Many scholars have given diverse interpretations of the verses. The verses have led many people, including many Christian denominations, to have some positions on women in ministry. The thrust of this article is to explore the correct interpretation of the verses based on some historical and biblical perspectives. The work adopted the historical and biblical exegesis method. Feminism theory was also considered in the work. The work concluded that 1 Corinthians 14:33-35 should not be interpreted literally. It must be interpreted within its context. It also concluded that women have their roles to play in the world and in the propagation of the gospel of Christ, regardless of attempts by men to relegate them to the background.

This study shows whether the culture of society can influence the organization, communication and implementation of church management, using the framework created by Geert Hofstede. Hofstede created a survey for investigating the variation of values to distinguish between cultures, their impact on etiquette, communication and church management (Hofstede's cultural dimensions). This study was conducted at the GKY BSD church organization located in Bumi Serpong Damai, Tangerang using quantitative research methods from the GLOBE study. The results of the study show that the existing data processing indicates a shift in one of the characteristics of Tionghoa culture in the leadership style of the GKY BSD church organization and supported the existing hypothesis, namely the multicultural Tionghoa Indonesia. This shift is an interesting phenomenon that shows the existence of a multicultural process and provides significant congregation growth from year to year in one of the church branches in BSD, Tangerang. Bahasa Indonesia Abstract Penelitian ini menunjukkan apakah budaya masyarakat dapat mempengaruhi organisasi, komunikasi dan pelaksanaan manajemen gereja, dengan menggunakan kerangka kerja yang dibuat oleh Geert Hofstede. Hofstede membuat survei dalam menyelidiki variasi nilai untuk membedakan budaya, dampaknya terhadap etiket, komunikasi dan manajemen gereja (dimensi budaya Hofstede). Penelitian ini dilakukan pada organisasi gereja GKY BSD yang berlokasi di Bumi Serpong Damai, Tangerang dengan menggunakan metode penelitian kuantitatif dari studi GLOBE. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa pengolahan data yang ada menunjukkan adanya pergeseran pada salah satu karakteristik budaya Tionghoa pada gaya kepemimpinan organisasi gereja GKY BSD dan mendukung hipotesis yang ada, yaitu Tionghoa Indonesia yang multikultural. Pergeseran ini merupakan fenomena menarik yang menunjukkan adanya proses multikultural dan memberikan pertumbuhan jemaat yang signifikan dari tahun ke tahun di salah satu cabang gereja di BSD, Tangerang.

This literature review and analysis intricately examines the dynamic interplay between educators and students within the realm of higher education, with a keen focus on the spiritual dimensions elucidated by Christian principles and biblical wisdom. Rooted in the fundamental belief that education embodies a sacred journey, this study delves deep into the profound impact of positive relationships on both academic achievements and spiritual maturation. By establishing meaningful connections between contemporary educational practices and timeless biblical teachings, the research sheds light on how Christian virtues, such as love, compassion, and empathy, serve as foundational pillars in cultivating a spiritually enriching learning environment. The synthesis of empirical studies, theoretical frameworks, and biblical insights not only enhances our understanding of the transformative potential of positive relationships in higher education but also underscores their pivotal role in fostering holistic development on a spiritual level. Through this comprehensive exploration, the study contributes significantly to the discourse on the symbiotic relationship between academic success and spiritual growth, emphasizing the importance of nurturing positive relationships as a cornerstone of holistic education in higher learning institutions.

Background: Christian mission hospitals provide critical assistance to communities that need their services the most, yet they often lack the financial and human resources needed to realize their full potential for community impact. Existing charity rating organizations rate few charities and lack transparency for donors, and limited resources exist to help volunteers find organizations that would benefit from their services the most. The objective of this article is to develop a transparent Transformational Impact Rating System (TIRS) that can be used by funding agencies and volunteer directing agencies to assess the potential for transformational impact of any hospital anywhere in the world. Methods: Research to inform the rating system was conducted via a comprehensive review of existing charity rating systems and literature, in-depth interviews, and surveys. TIRS was developed by identifying, selecting, categorizing, and allocating weights to variables. TIRS was implemented via a custom-built website to enable future testing and evolution. Results: A rating system was developed that generates an overall hospital score and scores in each of five categories (regional impact potential, financial health, operational performance, external relations, and volunteer experience) based on data collected from the hospital and surveys of donors, volunteers, staff, patients, and the local community. Discussion: TIRS in its current state is a proof of concept that demonstrates data-driven decision-making for funding and staffing hospitals with high potential for transformational impact. TIRS can be modified for future applications. Conclusion: TIRS provides a proof-of-concept system through which all hospitals in low-resource settings can make their impact potential visible to donors and volunteers. If TIRS (with suggested modifications) is used by those interested in helping mission hospitals, invisible hospitals that are struggling in remote areas will be more likely to receive much-needed resources. TIRS can help direct declining funds and manpower to hospitals that have the highest potential for transformational impact.

The aim of this article is to elucidate the rational foundations upon which personalist bioethics is built, thereby enhancing understanding regarding its place within the broader discourse of secular bioethics. Personalist bioethics, as a dynamic pursuit, actively engages with scientific discoveries, periodically revisiting them and considering contemporary individualsʼ diverse perceptions of identity and values. It integrates two foundational trunks: personalism and Aristotelian-Thomistic theology with metaphysical reference. The method employed by personalist bioethics is illustrated through triangulation: the exposition of biomedical reality, an in-depth study of anthropological significance, and the identification of values at stake. Rooted in a substantialist concept of the human person, it follows a systematic interaction of various knowledge spheres, aiming not only to describe problematic relations but also to propose prescriptive solutions. Personalism maintains that the human person is valuable for who he is and not only for the choices he makes; he is a source from which the choices proceed. According to personalist ethics, the ethical value of an act will have to be considered under the subjective aspect of intentionality, but it will also have to be considered in terms of its objective content and its consequences. The natural moral law that urges every conscience to do good and avoid evil, therefore, becomes concrete in respect for the human person in all the fullness of his values, his essence, and ontological dignity.

Doctors and nurses are bound to their oath: to serve the patients and provide them with the highest standard of professional care. However, as every medical personnel will understand, there are times when, despite best efforts, the patient is still dying in their duty shift. Dying is a human thing, and medical workers are more familiar with this than anyone else ever. But then, there are Christian medical workers. Christians are called to share their faith. But when?–or rather, when else? The patient is now critical, and it is unknown where the precious soul is going based on their faith. When the patient–who, based on the medical personnel’s best knowledge, does not know the Savior–finally dies, Christian medical caregivers may feel devastated: they may think they just lost the patient here on earth and there in eternity. This research aimed to identify the potential stress among Christian medical workers due to their inability to save terminal/critical patients and not having the chance or courage to share the gospel.

A vocation to serving in severely medically under-resourced settings invariably means facing of our own weakness in realizing that vocation. Christian teaching proclaims that God’s strength in made perfect in weakness, which is both a comfort and a mystery to many in facing their weaknesses. Without diminishing the mystery, experience demonstrates several ways in which this promise plays out in reality, providing an imaginative stimulus for how it may also be true in ways where it is less understood. Believing such teaching forms part of a necessary theological framework for Christians serving in areas of immense suffering as well as encouraging transparency and vulnerability in regards to their own weaknesses.

Health plays an important role in supporting educational success, with healthy students tending to have better concentration, endurance and motivation to learn. To achieve this, schools implement health education programmes aimed at improving studentsʼ knowledge, attitudes and skills in maintaining and improving their health. The programme includes formal and informal activities integrated in the curriculum, extracurricular initiatives and school health projects. Effective health education holds the potential to address these issues. While existing research has shown that health education can improve studentsʼ knowledge, attitudes, and skills related to health, direct evidence of its effect on studentsʼ health remains limited. The implications of health education are profound, including improved health knowledge, positive attitudes toward health, and the development of vital health maintenance skills. Additionally, it fosters a healthy learning environment, which is conducive to improved academic outcomes. Future interventions may involve the development of tailored materials, the integration of technology, and collaborative endeavors across multiple stakeholders. In conclusion, health education is a potent tool for enhancing student well-being and, consequently, educational success. By addressing health challenges and promoting healthy behaviors, health education contributes significantly to creating a brighter and healthier future for students in Indonesia and beyond.

Introduction: The tradition of charitable medical treatment can be drawn back to the early years of Christianity when the Church growth closely related to the care for the sick as well as other charitable activities. Though its purpose is charity, free medical service should also improve the quality of service. It can be achieved through the implementation of lean six sigma tools. One of its tools is a process map. Process map in Lean Six Sigma is commonly used as a diagnostic tool to determine the possible bottlenecks in the system. Methods: This is a brief pre and post quality improvement study. Before the implementation of a process map suggested by the researcher (period I), the patient flow was not properly organized. After the lunch break, the researcher introduced a new process map and briefed it to the committee. The patients flow in the afternoon (Period II) was using the process map. Patient numbers and wait times were measured within the time interval of this study. Results: Out of 159 patients who served during the period of this study, 63 (40%) were male and 96 (60%) were female. During Period I of the medical service, 50 patients (31%) were treated with average 17 patients per hour and approximate waiting time 36 minutes. After implementation of process map (Period II) the number of patients served were 109 (69%) with an average 36 patients per hour and an approximate waiting time of 17 minutes. Conclusion: The implementation of process map in free medical service may assist in increasing the number of patients served and reduce the waiting time as a result. Apart from reducing the confusion of where the patients were to go next, the process map also help the committee to identify possible hinderances and address the impediments to efficient charitable medical care.

No abstract available.

Wisdom has often been assigned as an attribute of God and links to Wisdom theology in the fourth Gospel that are well presented in scholarship by the works of Sharon Ringe, Elizabeth Johnson, Jörg Frey and Mary Coloe. Yet, John’s Gospel never uses the term Wisdom. So, what scriptural evidence can demonstrate that a Wisdom theology can be found in the fourth Gospel? What is clear in John’s Gospel is that there has been a move from an apocalyptic eschatology to one that is realised and sapiential. Hence, this article attempts to show that this change in eschatological outlook can be linked to the first century understanding of the figure of Wisdom, who had emerged as a divine figure that brought the heavenly into the earthly realm. This article uses a literary critical approach, utilising the Bible as the primary source along with key Johannine biblical scholars, to show that through the use of the attributes of Wisdom, the Johannine evangelist and the Johannine community have appropriated the key aspects of the female divine Sophia onto the notion of the divine Logos, who is in John synonymous with Jesus, the Nazarene. Using scriptural texts from both the First and Second Testaments about the notion of Wisdom and the work of key Johannine scholars, this article shows how John’s use of the concept of Logos, also ascribed to Wisdom in Wisdom 18:15, strongly parallels the attributes of divine Wisdom. This article argues that although John’s Gospel does not explicitly use the term Wisdom, the parallels between the biblical concept of divine Wisdom and divine Logos are numerous. Eternal life is a central concept in John’s Gospel and only found in the biblical Wisdom literature in association with divine Wisdom (Wis 5:5). This notion of immortality or eternal life in the book of Wisdom was the quality of life that Sophia offered the righteous (Wis 6:18; 8:17, 21) and became a central theme in the Johannine narrative, considering their experience of Jesus’ resurrection being now, rather than in the future (Jn 4:23; 5:25). The centrality of the wisdom of God was reflected in the figure of divine Wisdom, who was named in the First Testament literature as God’s incarnated envoy. However, in the Second Testament in the person of Jesus, John’s Gospel showed that the divine Logos is a manifestation of divine Wisdom’s all-powerful Word, finding a resting place in human history, imbuing its eschatology with a realised focus rather than a futuristic focus. Contribution: This article deals with the attribute of Wisdom as it is associated with the understanding of who God is. God has revealed God’s self in creation and through scripture, by the figure of divine Wisdom and the figure of the divine Logos. These two figures share many common attributes, of which one central feature is that of providing human beings with the opportunity to enter eternal life with the Divine One.

Paul Kruger on the covenant of 1838: Was he on target? Many Afrikaners and those associating with them, keep the promises made by the Voortrekkers in the Covenant of 16 December 1838 in connection with the battle of Blood River between them and the Zulu impis of King Dingane. As a champion of the Afrikaner in the 19th century, Paul Kruger as the elected president (1883–1900) of the Boer Republic, called the Zuid-Afrikaansche Republiek, partook in the Day of the Covenant as being celebrated by Afrikaners every year. This is a spiritual event the people associating with the Covenant should use to thank God for his salvation and for saving them and their forebears in a military crisis. With this view, Kruger as a Reformed Christian Afrikaner, would also have been able to accept the resolution of the General Synod of the Dutch Reformed Church of 1990, about the Covenant of 1838 being celebrated in South Africa after the change in government and the public attitude in 1994. As far as Kruger was concerned, the gratitude of people observing the Covenant of 1838, should be part of a life of gratitude and obedience to God, as their answer to his salvation and saving in everyday life. This view of Kruger came to the fore in his speeches in December 1886, 1891, and 1896 at Paardekraal, Krugersdorp. Paardekraal became the venue for festivities every five years around the Day of the Covenant in the old Transvaal. This was an implementation of a resolution of the government of the Zuid-Afrikaansche Republiek in 1883. Contribution: The well-known and debated covenant of 1838 of the trekking Boers, or Voortrekkers of that year once again is the reason for this article. The contribution is written from a historical and church-historical perspective, providing clarity on what it means to keep the covenant for those who ascribe to it at the moment. This theme is compared with the views of Paul Kruger, a representative of the Afrikaners in the 19th century.

When wisdom in the book of Isaiah is investigated, there is a deviation from the normal sense of understanding wisdom as a particular mental ability. What is out of the ordinary about the use of wisdom in the book of Isaiah is that it is used more often for clearly unwise people than for the wisdom of God. In ten texts, mainly from Isaiah 1−39, the ‘wisdom’ of the unwise is juxtaposed with the wisdom of God. In these texts, all the dominant powers in the Ancient Near East are addressed. In this manner, facets of God’s wisdom are brought to the fore, which is not evident in the semantic meaning of the חָכָם word group, where wisdom typically carries the idea of normativity, or good character and virtue (Pr 1:1–7). Therefore, the focus of this article will be to show how the actions of Yahweh toward both his people and his adversaries portray his wisdom, with a clear indication of what his wisdom entails in the book of Isaiah. This study calls for the re-evaluation of wisdom, advocating for a theocentric understanding that aligns with Yahweh’s will expressed in covenantal fidelity. Contribution: The article contributed to the widening of understanding God’s wisdom by showing how his practical plans emanate from his complete understanding of all events, highlighting an often overlooked aspect of the meaning of the חָכָם word group.

Auschwitz had a profound impact on the theological landscape. It led to God’s lordship, goodness and power being put on trial. If God exists and if he is a good and powerful God, why did he not intervene to stop the atrocities committed during the Holocaust? The theologies of the Jewish philosopher Hans Jonas and the Christian theologian Jürgen Moltmann were decisively structured by these questions. Contribution: This article compares the theodicies of these two influential thinkers within the Jewish and Christian traditions by analysing their concepts of God, the nature of the cosmos and human history as well as their respective views on God’s response to suffering. Despite showing appreciation for profound insights, this article points out impasses in their arguments. Drawing on a reformed approach to the question, the article concludes that the anthropodicy question is the real elephant in the room, not the theodicy question. Instead of asking questions about God’s goodness, Reformed theology posits the incomprehensibility of human beings turning against God. We must ask: How does it happen that a self-conscious being possessing innate moral capacities, such as moral emotions and vicarious intersubjective capabilities, rebels against God and engage in atrocious acts? Seen from this perspective, the theodicy question seems to be undergirded by the human propensity to moral disengagement and blame-shifting. Perhaps, instead of putting God on trial, humans must resort to introspection.

Celebrating popular piety in different regions reflects the vibrant, diverse, and festive culture of the Philippines. The innumerable religious practices through rites and ceremonies show the intensity and vibrance of Filipino Catholic spirituality. It is part of the heritage and unique identity of the Filipino Catholic Church to the extent that it also impacts the local liturgical calendar. Given this distinctive characteristic of popular piety, finding its harmony with the liturgy is challenging. The focus on the ritual aspect of popular piety diverges from orthodoxy, raising conflict between its praxis and Church teachings, which allows for misinterpretation and syncretism. This paper will employ a descriptive research design to assess the reception of Vatican II’s Directory of Popular Piety and the Liturgy: Principles and Guidelines (DPPL), using the method of critical reflection. It comprehensively analyzes the reception of DPPL and its profound impact on Catholicism in the Philippines. This study aims to establish an understanding of popular piety as a valid form of worship through analysis and evaluation of the process of inculturation to foster a deeper understanding and appreciation of these practices. It enriches theological discourse on the realm of inculturation, which leads to the preservation of cultural heritage and the understanding that popular piety is an encounter of evangelization and culture that should be treated with profound respect and mutual understanding.

The aim of this article is to present the issues of the family in relation to the scientific achievements of Prof. Helena Radlińska. In the course of the research, the descriptive research method was used. This was accompanied by a cross-sectional analysis of the documents. The subject of the conducted research were family issues, considered from the point of view of social pedagogy. The subject of the research was the family and people creating the family life environment. The summary of the analysis are the directions of further research, the effects of which will facilitate the creation of theoretical foundations for models of assistance, care, support and family development.

According to the Encyclical Humanae vitae of Pope Paul VI, conjugal love should be human (sensual and spiritual), full, faithful and exclusive, and fruitful. Human sexuality has a purpose and meaning. In addition to the procreative meaning, it also contains a bonding element, openness to the needs of the other, love, care, interest. However, to be complete, it requires communication, also in terms of intimate needs. Their proper satisfaction, with the appropriate level of maturity and religious activity, is the basis for marital fidelity. A proper understanding of the essence of sexuality allows the development of openness to life and the selection of appropriate methods of family planning, consistent with moral standards. For Christians, religious principles are the basis for understanding human nature, also in the sexual dimension, at the same time being the basis for formulating and understanding adequate norms derived from natural law. Respecting the principles of Catholic moral ethics puts marriage and family life in order. The aim of the considerations is to present human sexuality as an expression of conjugal love, which should be human, full, faithful, exclusive and fertile. In order to consider the normative significance of religion in the sex life of Catholic couples, a critical analysis of various sources was conducted. This included examining Church documents, books, and articles in scientific journals. The method applied in this paper involved a critical analysis of selected texts and a synthesis of their content. The basis for the considerations will be the Encyclical Humanae vitae of Pope Paul VI supplemented with modern knowledge in the field of biology, psychology, sexology and theology of marriage and family.

This article presents an analysis of selected broadcasts by Radio Free Europe’s Polish Broadcasting Service on the 1966 celebration of the Millennium of the Christianisation of Poland, against the background of the relationship between the Church and state. The source material consists of programmes available online on the Radio Liberty website and articles published in the monthly magazine Na Antenie/On Air from 1965 to 1966. The author's intention is to show the role and meaning of radio broadcasts vis-à-vis the Millennium Poloniae celebrations, which were of a religious and political nature. The radio station, under the direction of Jan Nowak-Jeziorański, defended the authority of Primate Stefan Wyszyński against communist propaganda, while serving as the only source of information for audiences in the country with respect to the Novena initiated in 1956, which culminated in the Millennium. Aside from RFE’s political objectives, the broadcasts served to counter the propaganda and the campaign against the Church and to break the media monopoly in the People’s Republic of Poland. Having a formative and integrative character, they also contributed to the preservation of the listeners’ religious identity.

The concept ‘catechesis’ has always been vital to pastoral mission in Roman Catholic Church and has been used officially with a basic fidelity to its etymological roots (an echoing of faith between believers and with fidelity to its context in the early Christian Church (systematic formation and participation in experiences within a faith community). However today, when official Roman Catholic Church documents recall family catechesis, at the practical level, family catechesis is still ambiguous. This article opens a new window on a very topical issue in contemporary catechesis: strengthening the family as an important agent of catechesis. The author (taking into consideration the changes of religiosity of Catholics) proposes different models in which the family can be supported to assume its primary function as an educator for the faith using the example of Poland.

The article’s author presents family catechesis as one of the possible forms of catechising children. The foundations of family catechesis are found in the New Directory for Catechesis where it is clearly stated that catechesis starts in the family. In Slovenia, the family catechesis was born “from the bottom-up”, at the request of a group of parents. In the beginning, it was an alternative option, but today it is considered equal to other forms of catechesis. Children and young people, who participate in this catechesis together with their parents, may receive the sacraments of first Holy Communion, Confession, and Confirmation. After ten years of experience, the results are positive and open new catechetic ways and possibilities. This is a new approach, a new method, for which the Directory for Catechesis says: “Catechesis does not have a single method, but is open to evaluating different methods, engaging in pedagogy and didactics and allowing itself to be guided by the Gospel necessary for recognizing the truth of human nature” (Directory for Catechesis no. 195).

In recent years, cheating in exams has been reported to be a serious issue in many countries. Some believe the problem to be more severe, due to the development of modern technologies. But academic dishonesty is not a new phenomenon. This article is going to look into the cheating methods used in the world’s first examination system in Imperial China and the means devised to prevent these malpractices. These are compared with examples of exam cheating observed in contemporary societies and the measures that institutions take to safeguard test and certificate validity. Cheating practices in Imperial exams are described on the basis of the available literature and the preserved artefacts. The state of the problem of cheating by contemporary students has been assembled, based on research articles. Despite all the changes that have occurred in educational systems over the years, cheating methods have not in essence changed significantly.

The present article discusses an original way of learning chess in the school context. This proposition concerns the first year of learning chess by the seven-year-old pupils. The organizational principles are described, resulting in the children’s age, psychological disposition and didactic implications. Four school subjects are linked with chess instructions. Firstly, chess is presented as a physical education, which is not common. Subsequently, Polish, mathematics and arts activities are suggested. The whole project is dedicated to promoting chess learning in a friendly context, even for children who will not choose to become chess players.

The rapid changes in the socio-cultural context of life and education of the young generation in Europe prompt contemporary educators to look for pedagogical trends that may be an inspiration for comprehensive education that rises to current challenges. The authors, therefore, refer to the relational concept of a person by Joseph Ratzinger and derive from it, the fundamental principles of personalistic pedagogy. In the first part of the paper, the basic terms related to the person and their upbringing will be outlined. The second part focuses upon chief educational difficulties; in the subsequent sections, they present the conditions of authentic upbringing and the assumptions of the education process presented by Joseph Ratzinger/Pope Benedict XVI.

The subject of the research are 107 recipients of social services who have been provided residential services since the beginning of the pandemic, i.e. since March 2020. The pandemic situation has significantly affected the financing as well as the functioning of social services, their employees and individuals of residential services. This study is focused on identifying key aspects and factors that most influenced the quality of services provided and life satisfaction of seniors in context of analysing the change in lifestyle habits of seniors before and during the pandemic Covid-19.

The article discusses the recognition of social competencies of students of science and social majors to do voluntary work. The theoretical concept on which the research is based is the concept of social competencies by J. Skrzypczak, who sees them as “the ability to do something, depending on the familiarity of knowledge, skills and abilities included in it, as well as on the degree of conviction about the need of using that ability.” The main purpose of the research is to diagnose the social competencies of students of science and social majors to do voluntary work and to identify the differences between groups in this respect. The method of diagnostic survey was chosen for the purposes of the study. Research has shown slight differences between the students of science and social majors. They only concern the assessment of one's own level of motivation to help.

This article analyses the impact of the coronavirus pandemic on the social problems and poverty of the elderly. Quarantine measures caused increased isolation, loneliness, psychological problems and limited access to medical care, which negatively affected their physical and mental health. The demographic shift towards an aging population presents seniors with complex challenges, including the struggle to meet basic needs and live on the poverty line. These related problems, associated with a lack of attention from the environment, have a negative impact on their quality of life. In the article, we analyse the state of poverty development, based on current statistics. The current isolation, loneliness and loss of independence are intertwined with low income and the possibility of institutionalization, which has increased with the advent of the pandemic situation and the economic crisis.

As a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, the use of technology and the internet was highlighted when teachers were encouraged to prepare teaching materials, so that online classes could be conducted smoothly and children`s education could continue. This form of teaching and activities, as well as isolation itself, resulted in children spending hours in front of the screen. The paper will present the results of a survey of the opinions of teachers (N=43) and parents of school-age children (N=55), regarding the habits, benefits and dangers of using the internet by children in the lower grades of elementary school. Descriptive and frequency analysis, as well as z-test and t-test, were used to process the obtained data in order to determine whether there is a difference in the opinion of teachers and parents about the forms of the child's use of the internet, the benefits and safety of using the internet.

Ethical competence is not an easily defined concept, especially with respect to the job requirements resulting from new technologies and digital transformation of the economy. The present paper attempts to define the competence profile of a worker in knowledge-based economy and workplaces using automation and digital technologies, but in relation to sources from encyclicals and other moral-theological documents. This profile includes specific ethical criteria, which are relevant and valid regardless of the times. Moreover, in the face of technological progress in modern economies, these criteria seem to have the power to influence the effectiveness of work processes. Thus, features such as respect for human dignity, responsibility, honesty, quality, courage, trustworthiness, justice, and secrecy should be considered as key for recruitment and evaluation of human capital in the modern labour market. As these are values mentioned in moral-theological documents, including papal encyclicals, they refer to the essence of human work and ensure that no man is reified.

The aim of the paper is to examine the potency contained in the mystery of Christ as Alpha and Omega of human history. The issue will be viewed through the prism of accidental encounters, etc. that is, those which in our earthly life have no visible importance or continuation. It is striking that our life largely consists of such contacts: thousands of people passing by every day seem to be accidental, “non-productive” and not important. Broken relationships belong to the same set as well. Thus, the real question is whether they have any deeper meaning or not. I will try to argue, by reference to spiritual theology, that life in Christ brings a real answer to this question. The apparently accidental encounters become, subsequently, relationships flourishing in Christ, on the basis that He is the one spiritual principle of all believers and the Head of the Mystical Body of the Church. In Him, our particular present encounters are purified and come into perfection to the state when they will appear as true and everlasting relationships. A man who is overlooked now turns out to be a real co-author of my eternal happiness. Although this sense will fully be realised in heaven, it can now be experienced by hope and the contemplation of the neighbour in God.

Contemporary reflection concerning man focuses upon man as a being living only “here and now”, it is “short-termed” in character. In this paper, going against the current of this dominant tendency, I would like to show how interesting and important is the question about the ultimate goal of human life. In my considerations I refer to the thought of Immanuel Kant and Arthur Schopenhauer – two classical authors of modern philosophy – who still seem to exert a significant influence on the European culture. Even if in their systems they depart from similar assumptions, their conclusions concerning man are radically different: for Kant, every human being has unique value and is called to create “civil society”; for Schopenhauer every individual being (including man) is volatile and devoid of meaning and value. The question remains open as to whether the ultimate message of their philosophy can be still an inspiration for us today, or whether it already sounds rather strange and unfamiliar in confrontation with the spirit of modernity.

This paper discusses the possibility pertaining to the field of a new principle of law theorised, according to the communion ecclesiology issued by the Second Vatican Council. By considering the accurate proceeding disposition, the author accepts that a new principle constitutes necessary rules for the correct functioning of the canon law system and, as such, are inducted from the legal reasoning of those entitled to take legal decisions in the process of applying the law, especially the judiciary. Furthermore, it could constitute an integrative tool of the entire legal system. Such a new principle is understood to be of great value, because of the significant role assigned to principles in the theory of law in general. In every case, a new principle evokes by, and alludes to, values that govern the entire canon law science.

Biblical typology is the basis of any mystagogy because, through it, the Christian sees the entire plan of God unfolded, fulfilled in Christ, along with the persons, realities, and events that prophetically prefigured His coming. In various fields of theological reflection, the term „mystagogy”, so dear to the liturgical and spiritual tradition of Christian antiquity, has emerged with renewed vigour. In the great patristic mystagogies, the biblical passage takes center stage and shapes the very method of mystagogy: for the Fathers, mystagogy is nothing other than biblical typology applied to the liturgy. Therefore, in order to fully participate in the mysteries of Christ and his message, it is necessary to appropriate and adopt biblical typology. Only this enables us to move toward a renewed mystagogy.

Not only does Moral Theology tell us what we should do, but it also provides the reasons why we should do some things and avoid others. Over the centuries Christians paid attention to God’s creatures because they realised that He speaks to us through them and reveals His will as well (Rom 1). This issue also became the object of metaphysical inquiry. The concept of the truth of all things explained how man gets knowledge about God’s will through his creatures, which he subsequently should take into account in his moral conduct. The Enlightment proclaimed human freedom from religious beliefs and restrictions. Its philosophy, known as modern philosophy, tried to „conquer” metaphysics and the notion of the truth of all things. This paper presents these efforts and their consequences.

The challenge posed by 18th-century rationalism to the 16th-century Reformed doctrine, initiated a trajectory in which Reformed churches assumed the responsibility of preserving the essence of the Reformation. The emergence of the Open Declaration [Openlike Verklaring] as a response to rationalism served as a call to unity and a reaffirmation of adherence to the Presbyterian Church government system established in 1618–1619. The objective of this study was to examine the significant contributions of the Open Declaration to Church Polity [Kerkreg] and the Reformed Churches of South Africa (RCSA)[Gereformeerde Kerke van Suid-Afrika (GKSA)] by focusing on three key elements: the declaration of faith and commitment; the acknowledgement of liturgical practices and ecclesiastical governance; and the plea for unity and ecclesiastical communion [Kerkverband]. Drawing on scholarly literature and relevant church documents, the analysis explores the role of the Open Declaration in shaping the identity and practices of the RCSA/GKSA within the broader context of Reformed church history. As a result of completing this study, it is discovered that the Open Declaration should be interrogated at local level and Article 48 should be read in the light of Article 29. Major assemblies should be understood from the local Church Council, Classis, regional Synod, and General Synod – not only Classis, regional Synod and General Synod. Contribution: The proposed shared understanding of the Open Declaration aims to foster a sense of unity among delegates, emphasising the importance of aligning and binding decisions made by the Church Council, Classis, Regional Synod, and General Synod during meetings. In conclusion, local churches should revisit the Public Declaration, engage in local church dialogues to promote ongoing cooperation, prioritise theological education and training to foster unity, upholding the 16th-century Reformational theology, celebrate Holy Communion in one church building, pursue Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR), seeking biblical ways to address and resolve conflicts between local churches, and supplementing the mechanism provided by Article 31 of the Church Order.

This article examines the ritual dynamics and identity negotiation in Mark 7:1–23, aiming to unpack the complex interaction between ritual practices and social identity in early Christian communities. Drawing on ritual theory from anthropology and sociology, this research analyses the significance of ritual purity and its implications for group identity formation and maintenance. Mark 7:1–23 presents a confrontation between Jesus and the Pharisees about the observance of the handwashing ritual before meals, highlighting opposing understandings of purity and religious tradition between Jesus and the Pharisees. Jesus’s critique of an external ritual of handwashing as an identity marker emphasises the purity of the heart as a valid identity marker for all children of God. Through a ritualistic reading of Mark 7:1–23, this article seeks to explore the role played by rituals in identity formation in antiquity. By engaging with ritual theory as a lens to unpack the Pharisees’ perspective and that of Jesus on what identifies a true child of God, this article aims to offer insights into the complexities of identity as understood by both Jesus’s early movement and the Pharisees. Contribution: This interdisciplinary study of Mark 7:1–23 utilises ritual theory to expose the interaction between ritual practices and identity negotiation within early Christian communities, revealing how Jesus’s critique of external rituals facilitated the formation of a distinctively Christian identity centred on inner transformation and ethical conduct.

This biblical theological investigation into the parallel narratives of Matthew 11:2–19 and Luke 7:18–35 seeks to identify wisdom (σοφία) in the concluding vindication of the wisdom statement of each pericope. The presence of a Wisdom Christology in these Gospels has led to significant scholarly debate as to whether σοφία in one or both of these texts refers to Jesus as Wisdom Incarnate, or to a more generic expression of personified Divine Wisdom. This study has attempted to prevent automatically reading theological and Christological patterns which are debated in the Gospels on the whole into the individual pericopes in question by engaging the exegetical details of the statements in their literary contexts, especially in relation to previous research that does not seem to have been sufficiently taken into account. This investigation argues that when the vindication of wisdom statements in these pericopes are read in the context of the parables of rebuke, especially when apparently peculiar language is understood in light of the socio-cultural context, the evidence points to an identification of Divine, rather than Christological Wisdom. Additionally, the texts’ portrayals of wisdom’s vindication are contrasted with the dangerously puerile conduct of the ‘child judges’ in the parables and the equally misguided verdicts of ‘this generation’, offering a biblical theological glimpse into the human difficulties of adequately discerning and engaging with God and his Wisdom at work. Contribution: By taking into account previously neglected observations regarding the socio-cultural background of the language used in Matthew 11:2–19 and Luke 7:18–35 and by relating Divine Wisdom to the difficulties of human perception and response in ways other investigations have not, this article has made a modest contribution to the interpretation of these episodes and to the biblical theology of wisdom.

This is a review of the book published by Dr. Stephen Ko in 2024. It is only highlighting certain sections of the book, and is not meant to be exhaustive, but to provide a little introduction to certain portions.Ko’s book is mean to help healthcare professionals with a deep mature Christian faith appreciate their understanding of the human body and how it is crucial to the link between physical and spiritual health. At the same time, written by a pastor, it is also meant for pastors and church planters who can see this connection.

Current Christian education has not been optimal in bringing students to the knowledge of God. Teachers only focus on delivering material so that knowledge stops in the cognitive domain and students do not understand the meaning and purpose of the lesson. The solution is teachers need to present meaningful learning for students. The purpose of this paper is to determine the role of Christian teachers as facilitators in developing meaningful learning for students. The method used is a literature review. Meaningful learning is a learning process that can bring students to the highest meaning of learning, namely God's truth. Epistemology is the philosophical view that bridges the highest source of knowledge, the God's truth. The role of Christian teachers as facilitators in meaningful learning is to facilitate students to gain knowledge of God so that students' lives refer to Christian values. It can be concluded that the role of Christian teachers is important in developing meaningful learning for students so that students continue to grow in the God’s truth and glorify God in their lives. The suggestion for next researchers is to deepen about the application of the role of Christian teachers as facilitators in developing meaningful learning through direct observation and enriching reference sources. BAHASA INDONESIA ABSTRACT Pendidikan Kristen saat ini belum maksimal dalam membawa murid-murid kepada pengenalan akan Tuhan. Guru hanya berfokus pada penyampaian materi sehingga pengetahuan berhenti pada ranah kognitif dan siswa tidak mengerti makna dan tujuan dari pelajaran tersebut. Solusinya adalah guru perlu menyajikan pembelajaran yang bermakna bagi siswa. Tujuan dari tulisan ini adalah untuk mengetahui peran guru Kristen sebagai fasilitator dalam mengembangkan pembelajaran yang bermakna bagi siswa. Metode yang digunakan adalah studi literatur. Pembelajaran yang bermakna adalah proses pembelajaran yang dapat membawa siswa menemukan makna tertinggi dari pembelajaran, yaitu kebenaran Tuhan. Epistemologi merupakan pandangan filsafat yang menjembatani sumber pengetahuan tertinggi yaitu kebenaran Tuhan. Peran guru Kristen sebagai fasilitator dalam pembelajaran bermakna adalah memfasilitasi siswa untuk mendapatkan pengetahuan tentang Tuhan sehingga kehidupan siswa mengacu pada nilai-nilai Kristiani. Dapat disimpulkan bahwa peran guru Kristen penting dalam mengembangkan pembelajaran yang bermakna bagi siswa agar siswa terus bertumbuh dalam kebenaran Tuhan dan memuliakan Tuhan dalam kehidupannya. Saran untuk peneliti selanjutnya adalah memperdalam tentang penerapan peran guru Kristen sebagai fasilitator dalam mengembangkan pembelajaran yang bermakna melalui observasi langsung dan memperkaya sumber referensi.

The low numeracy of students is still an emerging topic of discussion and has not yet made progress. Research from PISA and OECD shows that Indonesia ranks low for numeracy skills. Many efforts have been made to improve numeracy, one of which is the implementation of the Christian teacher's role as a guide. Therefore, this article is written with the aim of examining the role of Christian teachers as guides to improve student numeracy. This research was conducted using a literature review. The Christian teacher as a guide means that the teacher plays a role in directing and providing guidance for students. In improving numeracy, Christian teachers play a role in directing students to the right mindset towards numeracy content. Christian teachers make Jesus as a shepherd an example in carrying out their role as a guide to improve numeracy. Christian teachers help students to improve numeracy according to numeracy indicators while keeping the Bible as the source of truth. Christian teachers will make Christ the center of education, which means that all aspects of education are worked on and focused on Christ. Thus students can utilize numeracy skills in accordance with biblical truth and glorify God. Future researchers are advised to examine more deeply the factors that influence numeracy and find solutions to the appropriate role of Christian teachers to improve numeracy skills. BAHASA INDONESIA ABSTRACT Rendahnya kemampuan berhitung siswa masih menjadi perbincangan yang muncul dan belum mengalami kemajuan. Penelitian dari PISA dan OECD menunjukkan bahwa Indonesia berada di peringkat rendah untuk kemampuan berhitung. Banyak upaya yang telah dilakukan untuk meningkatkan kemampuan berhitung, salah satunya adalah dengan menerapkan peran guru Kristen sebagai penuntun. Oleh karena itu, artikel ini ditulis dengan tujuan untuk mengkaji peran guru Kristen sebagai penuntun untuk meningkatkan kemampuan berhitung siswa. Penelitian ini dilakukan dengan menggunakan studi literatur. Guru Kristen sebagai penuntun berarti guru berperan untuk mengarahkan dan memberikan tuntunan kepada siswa. Dalam meningkatkan kemampuan berhitung, guru Kristen berperan dalam mengarahkan siswa agar memiliki pola pikir yang benar terhadap materi berhitung. Guru Kristen menjadikan Yesus sebagai gembala sebagai teladan dalam menjalankan perannya sebagai penuntun untuk meningkatkan kemampuan berhitung. Guru Kristen menolong siswa untuk meningkatkan kemampuan berhitung sesuai dengan indikator-indikator berhitung dengan tetap menjadikan Alkitab sebagai sumber kebenaran. Guru Kristen akan menjadikan Kristus sebagai pusat dalam pendidikan, yang berarti semua aspek pendidikan dikerjakan dan difokuskan pada Kristus. Dengan demikian siswa dapat menggunakan kemampuan berhitung sesuai dengan kebenaran Alkitab dan memuliakan Tuhan. Peneliti selanjutnya disarankan untuk meneliti lebih dalam lagi mengenai faktor-faktor yang mempengaruhi kemampuan berhitung dan mencari solusi mengenai peran guru Kristen yang tepat untuk meningkatkan kemampuan berhitung.

21st century learning that is influenced by technology is expected to be able to equip and facilitate students with 6C skills, one of which is collaboration skills. Collaboration skills possessed by students provide many benefits in the learning process. In fact, there is evidence in the field proving that students have low collaboration skills caused by many factors, one of which is the role of the Christian teacher. Christian teachers as individuals who realize that they have been redeemed and become servants of God have an important role in helping students to meet educational demands that are influenced by the times, such as developing collaboration skills. The purpose of writing this paper is to describe the role of Christian teachers in developing collaboration skills in the midst of 21st Century Education using the literature review method. The results of this research are that collaboration skills are an important component in carrying out the Great Commission and the Law of Love established by God, especially as the image and likeness of a Trinitarian God, so that the role of Christian teachers is needed in developing students' collaboration skills. The conclusion of the study is that teachers can act as guides and facilitators by providing correct understanding and facilitating students in developing collaboration skills. The suggestion that can be given is that Christian teachers must be able to develop students' collaboration skills by being active in the learning process and taing into account the needs of students and trying to facilitate them. BAHASA INDONESIA ABSTRACT Pembelajaran abad 21 yang dipengaruhi oleh teknologi diharapkan mampu membekali dan memfasilitasi mahasiswa dengan keterampilan 6C, salah satunya adalah keterampilan kolaborasi. Kemampuan kolaborasi yang dimiliki oleh siswa memberikan banyak manfaat dalam proses pembelajaran. Kenyataannya, terdapat fakta di lapangan yang membuktikan bahwa siswa memiliki keterampilan kolaborasi yang rendah yang disebabkan oleh banyak faktor, salah satunya adalah peran guru Kristen. Guru Kristen sebagai pribadi yang menyadari bahwa dirinya telah ditebus dan menjadi hamba Tuhan memiliki peran penting dalam menolong siswa untuk memenuhi tuntutan pendidikan yang dipengaruhi oleh perkembangan zaman, salah satunya adalah mengembangkan keterampilan kolaborasi. Tujuan dari penulisan makalah ini adalah untuk mendeskripsikan peran guru Kristen dalam mengembangkan keterampilan kolaborasi di tengah-tengah Pendidikan Abad 21 dengan menggunakan metode studi literatur. Hasil dari penelitian ini adalah keterampilan kolaborasi merupakan komponen penting dalam menjalankan Amanat Agung dan Hukum Kasih yang ditetapkan oleh Allah, terutama sebagai gambar dan rupa Allah Tritunggal, sehingga peran guru Kristen sangat dibutuhkan dalam mengembangkan keterampilan kolaborasi siswa. Kesimpulan dari penelitian ini adalah guru dapat berperan sebagai pembimbing dan fasilitator dengan memberikan pemahaman yang benar dan memfasilitasi siswa dalam mengembangkan keterampilan kolaborasi. Saran yang dapat diberikan adalah guru-guru Kristen harus dapat mengembangkan kemampuan kolaborasi siswa dengan cara aktif dalam proses pembelajaran dan memperhatikan kebutuhan siswa serta berusaha memfasilitasi mereka.

The primary focus of this paper is the eschatological implication of the Greek word χαλεποί -perilous or fierce, from its description of human society in the last days as καιροὶ χαλεποί -perilous time (II Timothy 3:1) and its use in describing the horrifying or fierce experiences of the maniac of Gadara (Mathew 8:28). Academic discussions on eschatology have largely been focused on cataloguing the catastrophic unfolding end time events, such as natural disasters, wars, global outbreak of diseases, Israel diplomatic relations and their prophetic timeline. The general depravity of the human society as a prophetic dimension of the end time has not received its deserved attention. This study, through qualitative research, assessed the theological, eschatological and socio-ethical implications of the end time depravities (χαλεποί) on Nigerian society. There is a connection between demonic activities, as in the maniac of Gadarenes, and the identified bizarre human activities in and outside the Nigerian Church. Spiritual discernment, disengagement from corrupt personalities and discipleship of future leadership are recommended for the preservation of the end-time church. BAHASA INDONESIA ABSTRACT Fokus utama dari makalah ini adalah penerapan eskatologis dari kata Yunani χαλεποί -berbahaya atau ganas, dari gambarannya tentang masyarakat di akhir zaman sebagai καιροὶ χαλεποί -waktu yang berbahaya (II Timotius 3:1) dan penggunaannya untuk menggambarkan pengalaman mengerikan atau ganas dari orang yang kerasukan di Gadara (Matius 8:28). Diskusi akademis tentang eskatologi sebagian besar terfokus pada penggambaran mengenai bencana yang akan terjadi di akhir zaman, seperti bencana alam, peperangan, wabah penyakit global, hubungan diplomatis Israel, dan garis waktu nubuatannya. Kebobrokan umum dari masyarakat manusia sebagai dimensi nubuatan kenabian dari akhir zaman belum mendapatkan perhatian yang seharusnya. Penelitian ini, yang dilaksanakan melalui metode penelitian kualitatif, ditujukan untuk mengevaluasi secara teologis, eskatologis, dan dampak sosio-etis dari kebobrokan akhir zaman (χαλεποί) pada masyarakat Nigeria. Terdapat hubungan antara tindakan-tindakan kerasukan, seperti dalam kasus orang kerasukan di Gadara, dan tindakan-tindakan tidak lazim lainnya yang teridentifikasi di dalam dan di luar Gereja Nigeria. Penulis menghimbau agar gereja di Nigeria memiliki ketajaman rohani, dan jangan melibatkan diri dengan pemimpin gereja yang memiliki kepribadian yang tercemari oleh kesesatan.

The background of this writing is based on the fact that critical thinking skills in Indonesia are categorized as low. Students' critical thinking skills are very important in the digital era. Technology plays an important role in education, especially for Christian teachers to have relevant competencies as facilitators. This writing aims to find out what competencies Christian teachers need to develop students' critical thinking skills in the digital era. The author uses a qualitative descriptive method in this research. The research results show that the competence of Christian teachers as facilitators is crucial for developing students' critical thinking skills in the digital era. In developing students' critical thinking skills in the digital era, Christian teachers as facilitators must operate within the framework of Christian education, which is based on Biblical truth. This approach aims to restore the image and likeness of God, which has been distorted in students. Humans, as images of God, possess unique qualities, making it essential for Christian teachers to develop students holistically. Holistic student development involves teachers fulfilling their role as facilitators in Christian education. The recommendation for further research is to examine the role of Christian teachers beyond that of facilitators in developing students' critical thinking skills in the digital era to evaluate the effectiveness of these roles. BAHASA INDONESIA ABSTRACT Latar belakang penulisan ini adalah fakta bahwa kemampuan berpikir kritis di Indonesia dikategorikan rendah. Kemampuan berpikir kritis siswa sangat penting di era digital. Teknologi memegang peranan penting dalam dunia pendidikan, khususnya bagi guru-guru Kristen untuk memiliki kompetensi yang relevan sebagai fasilitator. Penulisan ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui seperti apa kompetensi guru Kristen yang dibutuhkan untuk mengembangkan kemampuan berpikir kritis siswa di era digital. Penulis menggunakan metode deskriptif kualitatif dalam penelitian ini. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa kompetensi guru Kristen sebagai fasilitator sangat dibutuhkan untuk mengembangkan kemampuan berpikir kritis siswa di era digital. Dalam mengembangkan kemampuan berpikir kritis siswa di era digital, penerapan peran guru Kristen sebagai fasilitator perlu dilakukan dalam kerangka pendidikan Kristen yang mendasarkan pendidikannya pada kebenaran Alkitab untuk mengembalikan gambar dan rupa Allah yang telah terdistorsi dalam diri siswa di era digital. Manusia adalah gambar dan rupa Allah yang memiliki keunikan masing-masing. Oleh karena itu, hal ini membuat guru-guru Kristen harus mengembangkan siswa secara holistik. Pengembangan siswa secara holistik dilakukan dengan menjalankan perannya sebagai fasilitator dalam pendidikan Kristen. Rekomendasi untuk peneliti selanjutnya adalah meneliti efektivitas peran guru Kristen lainnya dalam mengembangkan kemampuan berpikir kritis siswa di era digital.

Indonesia is a country with a diverse society. Diversity can bring conflict to society, but tolerance is essential to maintaining it. Education is a key starting point for fostering tolerance. This requires teachers to carry out their role in instilling moral values in society based on the correct philosophical foundation. As the image and likeness of God, despite having fallen into sin and experiencing severe damage, humans still have a will and mind that is the basis for humans to be both tolerant and intolerant. This article aims to explore the philosophical role of Christian teachers as mentors, examining how they foster tolerance and intolerance in the classroom. The method used in writing is a literature review. The conclusion is that Christian teachers can use tolerant and intolerant attitudes correctly in the classroom through motivation, spontaneous advice with love, examples of Christ's love, and classroom habits that teach students to love each other and appreciate the work of others while hating sin. BAHASA INDONESIA ABSTRACT: Indonesia adalah negara dengan masyarakat yang beragam. Keberagaman ini sering kali menimbulkan konflik di masyarakat. Namun, toleransi merupakan hal yang penting untuk menjaga keberagaman, yang dapat dimulai dari dunia pendidikan. Hal ini menuntut guru untuk menjalankan perannya dalam menanamkan nilai-nilai moral dalam masyarakat dengan berlandaskan pada landasan filosofis yang benar. Sebagai gambar dan rupa Allah, meskipun telah jatuh ke dalam dosa dan mengalami kerusakan yang parah, manusia masih memiliki kehendak dan pikiran yang menjadi dasar bagi manusia untuk bersikap toleran dan intoleran dengan benar. Artikel ini bertujuan untuk memberikan gambaran mengenai peran guru Kristen sebagai pembimbing dalam menumbuhkan sikap toleransi dan intoleransi di dalam kelas secara filosofis. Metode yang digunakan dalam penulisan adalah tinjauan pustaka. Kesimpulan yang diperoleh adalah guru Kristen dapat menggunakan sikap toleran dan intoleransi dengan benar di dalam kelas melalui motivasi, nasihat spontan dengan kasih, teladan kasih Kristus, dan kebiasaan di dalam kelas yang mengajarkan siswa untuk saling mengasihi dan menghargai karya orang lain serta membenci dosa.

This article discusses the crucial role of the church in addressing global challenges such as environmental crises and social injustices. Through an examination of the Theological Document of the Huria Kristen Batak Protestant Church (HKBP), this article highlights the concepts of ecumenism and solidarity as the foundation for the church's actions in safeguarding the environment and supporting social welfare. Considering the negative impacts of modernization on the environment and society, HKBP emphasizes the importance of active involvement in environmental restoration and protection efforts, as well as combating all forms of discrimination. The article also depicts the role of HKBP as a catalyst for change, promoting inter-church cooperation in bringing liberation to all of God's creation. With a focus on the practical implementation of its theological doctrines, this article provides an insight into how the church can effectively become an agent of social justice advancement and environmental preservation. BAHASA INDONESIA ABSTRACT Artikel ini membahas peran penting gereja dalam menjawab tantangan global seperti krisis lingkungan dan ketidakadilan sosial. Melalui telaah terhadap Dokumen Teologi Gereja Huria Kristen Batak Protestan (HKBP), artikel ini menyoroti konsep Oikumenisme dan solidaritas sebagai landasan tindakan gereja dalam menjaga lingkungan dan mendukung kesejahteraan sosial. Mempertimbangkan dampak negatif modernisasi terhadap lingkungan dan masyarakat, HKBP menekankan pentingnya keterlibatan aktif dalam upaya restorasi dan perlindungan lingkungan, serta memerangi segala bentuk diskriminasi. Artikel ini juga menggambarkan peran HKBP sebagai katalisator perubahan, mendorong kerja sama antar-gereja dalam membawa pembebasan bagi seluruh ciptaan Tuhan. Dengan fokus pada implementasi praktis dari doktrin-doktrin teologisnya, artikel ini memberikan gambaran tentang bagaimana gereja dapat secara efektif menjadi agen kemajuan keadilan sosial dan pelestarian lingkungan.