Religious Communities Research Articles

Learning Strategies for the Practice of Taboos in Shaping the Character of the Malay generation in Bintan, Kepulauan Riau, Indonesia

The issue of the conduct of the nation's generation is increasingly worrisome, exacerbated by the rapid pace of globalization that further deteriorates the situation. Experts are continuously formulating ideas and strategies to improve the conduct of the nation's generation but have yet to achieve maximum results. The increasing number of ill-mannered students, disobedient children to their parents, and the high level of crime and corruption displayed by the nation's generation prove that this nation is experiencing decay. This study aims to explore and deeply understand how the practice of prohibitions can cultivate the conduct and ethics of the Malay generation. Additionally, it seeks to comprehend the challenges faced in the current practice of prohibitions and to provide an alternative to strategies for learning conduct and ethics. This study is a qualitative case study conducted through interviews using purposive sampling techniques, involving 16 study participants consisting of leaders and religious figures, academics, community leaders, and community groups. The semi-structured interview served as the primary instrument, while documentation and observation were used as secondary sources in data collection for this study. The study found that the practice of prohibitions is still upheld and serves as a proven strategy for enhancing the ethics of the Malay community in Bintan Island, Riau Archipelago, once upon a time, as it involves familial relationships as educators. However, a weakness of this strategy is its inherent dependence on outdated, superstitious, and illogical practices. The research results also indicate that the advancement of time and globalization have distanced the Malay generation from the practice of prohibitions, leading to a deterioration of conduct. Through this study, the researcher proposes a framework for an educational strategy for learning conduct as an alternative to the practice of prohibitions that is logical and easily understood by any generation.

Peran Pesantren dalam Penanaman Moderasi Beragama: Tinjauan Pustaka Sistematis

<p><strong>The diversity of religious communities creates challenges in maintaining harmony between religious communities. Various acts of intolerance to radicalism are problems that can disrupt harmony and damage the consensus of the Indonesian nation. Islamic boarding schools as Islamic religious educational institutions have a role in teaching and disseminating understanding that can strengthen and maintain harmony between religious communities in Indonesia, one of which is religious moderation which can be implemented in various ways and approaches for students. The purpose of this study is to identify various types of religious moderation instillation for students. This study uses a systematic literature review using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) guidelines. A systematic search was conducted on the Scopus database using the Publish Or Perish application based on publications from 2019 to 2024 using predetermined keywords. The determination of selection criteria resulted in 8 scientific articles to be analyzed in this study. The results of the study show that the instillation of religious moderation can be carried out by Islamic boarding schools in various ways, such as by combining modern education with traditional Islamic boarding school traditions, implementing multicultural education based on local culture, through understanding Sufi orders, utilizing digital learning, implementing hidden curriculum, organizing interfaith and cultural dialogues and halaqah, using the taghyir approach and strengthening intellectual traditions in the Islamic boarding school environment.</strong></p><div class="WordSection1"><p><strong><em>Keyword - </em></strong><em>Religious Moderation, Pesantren, Santri, Systematic Literature Review.</em></p></div>

The Religious Leaders’ Perspectives on Corona Survey: Methods and Key Results

Religious leaders are highly influential actors in many societies across the globe. In the singular global crisis brought upon by the COVID-19 pandemic, their perspective on the pandemic itself but also the post-pandemic future is of high relevance. Against this background, we conducted the Religious Leaders’ Perspectives on Corona Survey, a comprehensive survey of 1200 religious leaders globally, in 2020/2021. Its aim was to investigate the role of religious communities and religious leaders during the COVID-19 pandemic. This article provides an in-depth outline and discussion of the survey methodology and the resultant dataset, thereby paving the way for future research using the survey data. Moreover, the first set of key results is highlighted. It emerges that the COVID-19 pandemic was not primarily a health crisis. Rather, in terms of its consequences, COVID-19 had the characteristics of a primarily economic crisis in the Global South and a primarily psychosocial crisis in the Global North. Moreover, the pandemic has had a fundamental impact on religious practice across the globe. This impact, however, seems to be highly unequal between the Global South and North. Religious communities are shown to have had an important role as civil society actors in the pandemic, providing both psychosocial and material support. Regarding the post-pandemic world, religious leaders envision a more equitable society and emphasize the need for environmental sustainability.

Digital Minority Religions

Abstract Religion has always been, to a certain extent, mediated. Communication practices are at the core of religious communities, but it is in recent decades that the rapid developments of media technologies have created new possibilities for interactions about religion. In this context, a focus on religious minorities represents a unique opportunity for scholars to analyze the internet in nuanced ways within the framework of digital religion. Through the analysis of minority groups, the internet can be understood both as a space of empowerment of marginal voices and as a venue that further increases social exclusion. In this editorial I outline previous works that show this double-faced role of the internet for minorities, and I offer some reflections on theoretical perspectives for the future of digital minority religions.

Religion as a strategy for Ukrainians to overcome difficulties at the beginning of the Russian invasion of Ukraine in 2022

This study is about those Ukrainians who chose faith аs their dominant survival strategy at the beginning of the war. The multifunctionality of the religious strategy (according to K. Pargament) can manifest itself in religious behavior, which is also observed among the respondents: passive, active, in the development of personal relationships with God and interpersonal — in the middle of church communities, focused on solving problems and the emotional calm that religious practices bring — prayer and participation in divine services. A religious coping strategy helps to find hope through faith and trust in God and build a more positive vision of your future and your country. How did Ukrainians use religion to deal with the fear and trauma of war? This study shows how some Ukrainians, feeling the fear and trauma of war, turned to religion and faith not only in the traditional spiritual sense, but also in a broader interpretation as a hope and trust for a better future, victory and the forces of good. In order to identify strategies that help Ukrainians survive difficult trials, we conducted the interviews in April and May 2022 with 31 Ukrainians from different regions of Ukraine and abroad. Our research particularly highlights the spiritual experience of the Roman Catholic community of Ukraine. Religious coping mechanisms included physical activities such аs evening prayer with the family and attending church services. Metaphysical actions included communicating with God in everyday life or "giving everything to God." Religion was singled out as one of the strategies for overcoming difficulties by Ukrainians in extreme situations. Using thematic analysis, several strategic areas for dealing with stress were identified from the interview. In a brief linguistic analysis, It was noted that the word ‘faith’ appears in various meanings, not only faith in God, but also faith in victory, faith in the forces of good, faith in a better future for their children. Verbal concepts that reveal respondent’s religious worldview — faith in God (4 mentions), prayer (4), God (3), religious community (2), hope in God (4), faith (2), Lord God (2), church (1), trust in God.

Building an interfaith dialogue to prevent conflicts on religious grounds within the state (taking the example of the interaction between the Russian Orthodox Church and the Muslim community in the Russian Federation)

This article examines the main aspects of interreligious relations between Orthodox and Muslims. Special attention will be paid to the historical, cultural and social contexts that shape the modern relationship between these two religious communities. An emphasis on understanding and respecting diff erences can promote peaceful coexistence and mutual understanding. In the modern world, interreligious relations occupy an important place in social and political life. Islam and Orthodoxy, being two of the world's largest religions represented in Russia, often find themselves in the spotlight due to diff erences in teachings. Studying their interaction helps to understand many aspects of intercultural dialogue and conflict, which has remained relevant for centuries.

Medical ambivalence and Long Covid: The disconnects, entanglements, and productivities shaping ethnic minority experiences in the UK

Structural violence - related to ‘isms’ like racism, sexism, and ableism – pertains to the ways in which social institutions harm certain groups. Such violence is critical to institutional indifference to the plight of ethnic minority people living with long-term health conditions. With only emergent literature on the lived experiences of ethnic minorities with Long Covid, we sought to investigate their experiences around the interplay of illness and structural vulnerabilities. Thirty-one semi-structured interviews with a range of UK-based participants of varying ethnic minorities, ages and socio-economic situations were undertaken online between June 2022 and June 2023. A constant comparison analysis was used to develop three over-arching themes: (1) Long Covid and social recognition; (2) The violence of medical ambivalence; and (3) Pathways to recognition and support. Findings showed that while professional recognition and support were possible, participants generally faced the spectre and deployment of a particular mode of structural violence, namely ‘medical ambivalence’. The contours of medical ambivalence in the National Health Service (NHS) as an institution had consequences, including inducing or accentuating suffering via practices of care denial. Despite multiple structurally shaped ordeals (like healthcare, community stigma, and sexism), many participants were nevertheless able to gain recognition for their condition (e.g. online, religious communities). Participants with more resources were in the best position to ‘cobble together’ their own approaches to care and support, despite structural headwinds.

Equal Rights in the Construction of Places of Worship for Followers of Religious Beliefs

The legal construction of the Indonesian nation through Article 20 paragraph (1), Article 20A paragraph (1), (3) Article 21, Article 28E paragraph (1), Article 28E paragraph (2), Article 28I paragraph (1), Article 28I paragraph (2), Article 29 paragraph (1), and Article 29 paragraph (2) of the 1945 Constitution of the Republic of Indonesia. has provided a guarantee of recognition of religion and other believers. Cultural diversity in the realm of religion is a special characteristic of Indonesian society. Various cultures, races, tribes and religions have become an inseparable part of the identity of the Indonesian people since before this country was founded. However, violations of religious freedom still often occur in Indonesia. Various conflicts regarding permits for places of worship are prohibited by the majority. This has violated human rights which are stated in the 1945 Constitution. Joint Ministerial Regulation (PBM) Number 8 and Number 9 of 2000 should be the basis for protection and equality for the construction of places of worship. However, this regulation has not been able to fully accommodate the rights of believers because the provisions of Article 14 of the Joint Ministerial Regulation are still discriminatory. The Draft Law on the Protection of Religious Communities needs special attention to unravel the problems of building houses of worship and as a form of concrete legal protection for religious communities and believers.

Community Service Through Real Work Lectures (KKN) in Sungai Ular Village, Langkat Regency

The Community Service Program (KKN) in Sungai Ular Village, Secanggang District, Langkat Regency, aims to develop community potential through three main focuses: religious moderation, empowerment of digital technology-based MSMEs, and stunting prevention. Through a Participatory Action Research (PAR) approach, KKN activities involve the community directly in the process of social and economic improvement. The religious moderation program has succeeded in deepening understanding of religion, increasing tolerance, and strengthening relations between religious communities through activities such as Maghrib Koran Recitation, Wirit for Mothers, and Wirit for Youth. Empowerment of MSMEs, especially in the palm sugar sector, is carried out by providing digital marketing training and promotional support through e-commerce platforms to expand markets and increase income. The stunting prevention program provides education to the public regarding the importance of balanced nutrition, reproductive health, and the impact of early marriage on stunting. The results of implementing this KKN show increased community awareness and sustainability in local economic development and public health, which has the potential to reduce the prevalence of stunting and improve the quality of life in Sungai Ular Village.

From Persecution to Coexistence: The Bahāʾísm in Iran and Bangladesh

The Bahāʾísm, emerging from 19th-century Persia through the teachings of Bahāʾuʾllāh, has developed into a globally recognized faith known for its emphasis on unity, peace, and progressive revelation. This paper traces the historical trajectory of the Bahāʾísm from its origins in Persia (modern day Iran) to its establishment in Bangladesh, focusing on both the shared and divergent experiences of its adherents in different cultural contexts. The study addresses the significant challenges Bahāʾís face, particularly the severe persecution in Iran due to theological conflicts with mainstream Islam, contrasted with their relatively accepted status in Bangladesh, a secular Muslim majority country. Drawing on qualitative research conducted at the Rajshahi Bahāʾī Center, Bangladesh, this paper highlights the personal narratives of Bahāʾí converts, their devotional practices, and the obstacles they encounter in maintaining their religious identity. The analysis extends to a comparison with Aḥmadiyya, another religious movement with Islamic roots, to elucidate theological distinctions and the varying degrees of societal acceptance. While the Bahāʾí Faith and Aḥmadiyya both emerged in the 19th century and share a backdrop of Islamic influence, the Bahāʾí emphasis on universal equality and an independent identity sets them apart. This paper argues that such distinctions, coupled with Bangladesh’s secular policies, have allowed Bahāʾís to practice their faith with fewer constraints compared to their coreligionists in Iran. By examining these interfaith dynamics, the study contributes to a deeper understanding of religious pluralism, the complex interactions between minority religious communities and their broader social environments, and the implications for religious tolerance and coexistence in contemporary Muslim societies.

Why do Insurgents Target Religion? The Case of Shining Path in Peru

ABSTRACT Under what conditions do insurgents target religious communities, faith leaders, places of worship in conflicts that are not primarily about religion? Building on insights from scholarship on violence against non-combatants in civil wars, war and religion, and religion–state relations, this article proposes that insurgents who are not primarily motivated by religion are most likely to engage in violence against religion when they are engaged in contested efforts to control territory and encounter resistance from faith leaders. It then probes the plausibility of the argument through a mixed-method case study of the Shining Path insurgency in Peru, showing that variations in the spatial and temporal distribution of Shining Path’s attacks on religion are consistent with theoretical expectations.

Facilitators and challenges in collaboration between public health units and faith-based organizations to promote COVID-19 vaccine confidence in Ontario

BackgroundEquitable access to vaccination remains a concern, particularly among population groups made structurally vulnerable. These population groups reflect the diversity of communities that are confronted with structural barriers caused by systemic racism and oppression and result in them experiencing suffer disadvantage and discrimination based on citizenship, race, ethnicity, ancestry, religion, spiritual beliefs, and/or gender identity. In Canada, Ontario public health units (PHUs) engage with faith-based organizations (FBOs) to improve vaccine confidence among populations made structurally vulnerable. This study explores the factors that facilitate and hinder engagement in the implementation of vaccine confidence promoting interventions, and challenges associated with working with FBOs.MethodsIn-depth interviews were conducted with 18 of the 34 Ontario PHUs who expressed an interest. Braun and Clarke’s “experiential” approach was used to explore the realities of PHUs’ contextual experiences and perspectives.ResultsThe results showed that receptivity and openness of PHUs to learn from FBOs, previous experience working with religious communities and FBOs, ongoing relations based on respect of different beliefs and opinions on the vaccines, leveraging the support of trusted faith leaders among communities and communications strategy adapted and sensitive to the needs of the community was facilitators to community involvement in the prevention and control of COVID-19. On the other hand, factors both internal and external to the PHUs have often posed challenges to collaboration with the FBOs. Internal factors include low operational capacity of PHU like insufficient human and financial resources, weak analytical capacity, ambiguity in the roles and responsibilities of the different actors. Some external challenges issues were related to the provincial level and the Ministry of Health, while others were related to FBOs. For example, faith-based and collective beliefs promoting vaccine hesitancy have resulted in resistance from some religious communities when PHUs have reached out to collaborate.ConclusionsEngaging with faith-based communities is an ongoing process that requires time, flexibility, and patience, but it is necessary to improve vaccine confidence and equity access among population groups made structurally vulnerable. Lessons learned from this research can guide the implementation of future vaccination programs.

Концептуальна модель державно-церковних відносин в сучасній Україні

The article summarizes and analyzes the basic concepts related to state-church relations, the models of these relations, and proposes the author's conceptual model of state-church relations for modern Ukraine. The relevance of the study is due to the fact that in Ukraine the share of citizens who declare themselves believers is more than 70%, the church is a public institution with a high level of trust from society, and the presence of 35,778 religious communities in Ukraine. However, the insufficient conceptual justification of the model of relations that would be effective in modern conditions is noted. First of all, it is noted that although the concept of "state-church relations" is often used in scientific discourse, it is not enshrined in either international or domestic legislation. The analysis of regulatory documents and scientific sources allowed us to establish that these relations concern the relations between public authorities and religious organizations. The main regulatory legal acts that regulate the issues of state-church relations are summarized. It has been established that although religious organizations have separate state regulation, they can use all the rights provided for by law for public associations. This opens up great opportunities for socially beneficial initiatives of religious organizations. The following models of state-church relations are summarized: 1) antagonistic: ignoring the state's hostile attitude towards the church; 2) separation of the church from the state: the state does not identify itself with any of the religions (churches); 3) state church: legally enshrined privileged position of one of the religions (churches); 4) cooperative: the church and the state are separated, but interact; 5) partnership: the church and the state interact on a partnership basis; 6) subordination of the church to the state; 7) primacy of the church: dominance of the church in all spheres of public life; 8) separation: the state does not create special legislation regulating state-church relations; 9) syncretic: assumes the possible existence of a state church; 10) theocracy: political power in the state belongs to the clergy or the leadership of the church; 11) caesaropapism: the head of state is simultaneously the head of the church. In Ukraine, the model of autonomy in state-church relations is legally enshrined. However, in practice, a partnership model is already being implemented: after all, memoranda are concluded between state and religious organizations, advisory bodies are created, cooperation is carried out in the social sphere, etc. Taking into account this trend, it is proposed to implement in practice a partnership model of state-church interaction. This model combines the principles of separation of the church from the state with elements of cooperation and partnership in specific areas of public life. The model provides for state support for the initiatives of religious organizations, if they do not contradict the legislation. Within the framework of the model, a set of principles is proposed that allow state-church relations to acquire a modern meaning and bring more social benefit to the society of Ukraine

Research on Religion and Aging among Black Americans and Mexican Americans: The Impact of the National Institute on Aging.

For 50 years, the National Institute on Aging (NIA) has supported and promoted research on religious involvement among older adult populations. This article discusses the ways that NIA funding has 1) broadened our understanding of how religious involvement is conceptualized and measured; 2) explored the important role of social networks and interactions within religious communities in relation to congregants' health; 3) supported research on national samples of the U.S. population to explore demographic variability in religious practices and beliefs, as well as their social correlates; and 4) examined health-relevant frameworks and topics in relation to religion's association with physical and mental health and well-being. The article focuses on research on African Americans and Mexican Americans as well as work that compares these populations to non-Latino Whites and Black Caribbeans. In this article, we provide an overview of selected research topics in the area of religion and aging, including Conceptualization and Measurement of Religious Participation; Religion and Mental Health; Religion and Physical Health; Church-Based Informal Support; Church Support and Mental and Physical Health; Religious Coping, and the Use of Clergy for Serious Problems. Scholarship and research supported by the NIA have fundamentally contributed to a deepening understanding of why and how religion matters for the health and social well-being of African American, Black Caribbean, and Mexican American older adults.

Shaped by His Upbringing: Jesus’ Mission in Luke 4: 16–22 Aligned with Luke 2: 51–52 as a Paradigm for Youth Formation, Empowerment, and Social Engagement Today

This paper examines the formative influence of Jesus’ upbringing in Nazareth, particularly as depicted in Luke 4: 16–22, alongside related passages such as Luke 2: 51–52. Through these accounts, this analysis seeks to elucidate the social, cultural, and spiritual dimensions of Jesus’ early life and their significance in shaping his mission and identity, as well as how his religious customs and community involvement can inspire contemporary youth by integrating the core pillars of faith, education, and family and empowering them to confront modern challenges with a holistic perspective inspired by Jesus’ mission. Methodologically, it should be taken for granted that a tendency to psychologise biblical characters—interpreting their actions or decisions as if they shared modern psychological frameworks—can lead to oversimplifications or misapplications. For example, Jesus’ obedience to his parents reflects a culture of strict family authority, contrasting with today’s focus on independence and self-expression in youth development. By examining key Greek terms such as tethramménos (from trépho: ‘having been brought up’) and katà tò eiōthòs autộ (‘as was his custom’) in v.16, this study emphasises Jesus’ strong connection to his faith and cultural heritage. His regular participation in synagogue life and his upbringing in a religious and familial context (see Luke 2: 51–52) were crucial in shaping his identity and preparing him for his transformative and transforming mission, according to the Isaianic prophecy (61: 1–2) he read on the same occasion. This paper argues that these early experiences, particularly his education within the Jewish tradition and his family’s role in nurturing his spiritual growth, were foundational for the holistic mission Jesus would later proclaim—a mission that sought spiritual, social, and physical liberation.

Mencintai Karena Allah: Konsep dan Aplikasinya dalam Kehidupan Sosial Berdasarkan Al-Qur'an dan Hadits serta Implikasinya di Kampus Universitas Islam Zainul Hasan Genggong Probolinggo

This study aims to analyze the concept of "loving for the sake of Allah" based on the Qur'an and Hadith and examine its application in social life, particularly within the campus environment of Zainul Hasan Islamic University, Genggong Probolinggo. The concept of loving for the sake of Allah is a spiritual value that underpins interpersonal relationships in Islam, emphasizing compassion, brotherhood, and selfless sincerity. Using a qualitative approach with field studies and documentation methods, the research involves students, lecturers, and campus administrators as subjects. The findings reveal that the values of loving for the sake of Allah are applied in various social activities on campus, such as religious programs, organizational collaboration, and community service. Qur'anic verses like Surah Ali Imran (3:31) and Hadiths on Islamic brotherhood serve as the primary references for understanding this concept. The implications show that implementing the value of loving for the sake of Allah fosters a harmonious campus atmosphere, strengthens Islamic brotherhood, and motivates students to contribute positively to the community. However, challenges in consistently applying this value arise, particularly due to external influences and a lack of deeper understanding. Therefore, strengthening religious programs and Islamic character development on campus is essential to ensure the sustainability of these values in social life.

Revitalizing faith: an inquiry into political Sufism and religious continuity in contemporary Kazakhstan.

The article embarks upon a study of political Sufism in contemporary Kazakhstan and patterns of religious continuity through an examination of Islamic manifestations that stretch back centuries, juxtaposed with the current state religious policy. It examines the role of the Muftiate's "official Islam" in shaping the life of religious communities, exploring the intricate interplay between religious identity, secularism, and public perception in the post-Soviet landscape. The author employed a multi-faceted research approach, integrating historical analysis, policy examination, and an ethnographic study of contemporary religious dynamics in the country. The historical analysis provides a foundation of the religious landscape, while policy analysis examines the state's contemporary role in shaping religious practices. Ethnography, focusing on groups such as the Jahriyya, Naqshbandiyya, and the Suhba, involves respondents from diverse regions of Kazakhstan, offering firsthand insights into the experiences and perceptions of Sufi communities at the grassroots level, which enriches the study with a contextual perspective. Notably, fieldwork surveys, where the author engaged with respondents, provide valuable insights into the diverse experiences shaping the dynamics of political Sufism and religious continuity. They involved a diverse group of respondents, including religious leaders, community members, and secular intellectuals, from multiple regions of Kazakhstan at both urban and rural levels. The article is of scientific and practical significance as it enhances understanding of religious dynamics in the country, offering policymakers, scholars, and practitioners valuable perspectives for informed decision-making and policy development. The research's limitations include its focus on specific Sufi groups within Kazakhstan, which may not represent the full spectrum of Islamic practices across the region. The recommendations emphasize the need for further analysis of how prioritizing doctrinal adherence over individual freedoms contributes to the erosion of authentic religious institutions and the politicization of Islam. It also recommends to investigate the roles of Sufi groups in filling spiritual and social vacuums, their potential for politicization, and how this interplay affects religious freedom and national identity in Kazakhstan. This is particularly significant given the state's efforts to appropriate Islamic traditions for ideological purposes, which has led to a separation between Islamic doctrine and its lived expressions. Finally, it emphasizes the need for further comparative research on Sufi movements across Central Asia to better understand how different state policies impact religious communities.

An Exploratory Study of the Moderating Effect of Religious Service Attendance on the Relationship Between Discrimination and Suicidal Behaviors in an Immigrant Sample

This cross-sectional study explored the moderating effect of religious service attendance on the relationship between discrimination and suicidal behaviors in a community sample of immigrants. A convenience sample of 348 individuals with immigrant experience to the U.S. completed a survey in either English, Portuguese or Spanish. The relationship between discrimination and suicidal behaviors was moderated by religious service attendance, equipping help from religious communities (RCs) and not having experienced discrimination in RCs. Other protections included being born outside the U.S. First-generation immigrants also reported less discrimination, which was a risk factor for suicidal behaviors. Other risk factors were refugee status, higher acculturation, discrimination in RCs, and certain types of help from RCs. Help that equipped them to navigate the U.S. system was associated with lower suicide risk. Community partners and RCs can help immigrants by collaborating to promote immigrant mental health because of the high religious affiliation of immigrants.

Worship as a Medium of Interfaith Dialogue - "A Missiological Perspective"

This paper aims to explore the role of worship as a medium for dialogue between religious communities, focusing on a missiological perspective. Highlighted issues include the lack of comprehensive understanding regarding the role of worship in promoting interfaith dialogue and the scarcity of research specifically linking worship with a missiological approach. This gap needs to be addressed. The research method used is a qualitative approach, conducting a comprehensive literature review on worship, interfaith dialogue, and missiology theory. The results of this study are expected to provide a better understanding of worship's role in facilitating interfaith dialogue. This research is also anticipated to contribute new insights to the field of missiology by exploring how worship can be a powerful tool for the church in fostering understanding and cooperation between different religious communities. The conclusion provides practical recommendations for church leaders, religious figures, and missiology practitioners to use worship as an effective medium for dialogue. By promoting interfaith dialogue through worship, it is hoped to strengthen tolerance, mutual understanding, and cooperation among religious communities, building harmony and peace in a pluralistic society. Ultimately, the goal is to create greater awareness of the importance of respecting religious differences and promoting cooperation through inclusive and dialogical worship practices.

Contextual Theological Review Of The Meaning Of Tamo Cake In The Tulude Tradition And Its Impact On Faith Growth In The GMIM Batu Karang Bualo Congregation, Bunaken Region

This article presents a contextual theological review regarding the meaning of Tamo Cake in the Tulude Tradition and its impact on the growth of faith in the GMIM Batu Karang Bualo Congregation, Bunaken Region. Tamo cake, which is made from sticky rice, sugar, coconut and coconut milk, not only serves as a dish in Tulude ceremonies, but also holds the noble values that are the cultural heritage of the people of North Nusa. This research aims to maintain the Tulude Tradition, which includes Tamo Cake, as a means of increasing the growth of Christian faith. Using qualitative methods and in-depth analysis, this article links the Tamo Cake to Christian values, highlighting how the meaning of this cake can strengthen social bonds and increase the spiritual awareness of the congregation. Tamo cake is a symbol of unity and harmony, which is able to penetrate differences in a pluralistic society. The research results show that Tamo Cake in the Tulude Tradition not only functions as ritual food, but also as a medium for communicating theological and educational values that are relevant to the context of congregational life in relation to Contextual Theology and the cultivation of Christian values for Christian Religious Education. Thus, this tradition has great potential in building faith and harmony between religious communities. This article ends with a conclusion that emphasizes the importance of maintaining traditions as part of a community's cultural identity and spirituality.