Christian Education Research Articles

Christianity and Boxing: A Review Essay and Position Statement

The sport of boxing has existed since ancient times, with fights sometimes ending in death. In the modern world, with our greater medical knowledge, the risks of brain and other life-changing injuries have called into question whether boxing has a place in contemporary society. In fact, professional boxing has been banned in some European countries. There are also questions about whether it is appropriate to encourage spectators to watch two individuals attempting to punch each other into oblivion and about the effect this can have on those watching. The fact that, in recent years, we have seen the development of women’s boxing both in the Olympics and at the professional level raises further questions. The particular emphasis of this paper is to note the number of committed Christians involved in boxing from grassroots to the elite level and to consider whether involvement in such a violent sport can be reconciled with the teaching of Jesus Christ. The main source of data is published biographies and autobiographies of Christian boxers and some interviews. There is very little published material at an academic level on the topic that we are considering. The conclusion is that despite the sincerity of the Christian boxers involved in the sport, it is difficult to justify boxing as a sport in relation to Christian teaching.

Метод погружения в эпическую ситуацию как средство формирования и коррекции ценностной ориентации подростков

Russian heroic folk sagas (byliny) have been a central element of Folk Education as a distinct genre of folklore that actively shaped and refined the listener’s value system, influencing their perception of the world and their moral compass. The folk epic storytelling was a multifaceted cultural practice, incorporating pedagogical and psychotherapeutic functions.This practice promoted Christian teachings, instilled social norms, fostered a sense of national pride, emphasized the importance of family and tradition, and encouraged care for the less fortunate, including widows, orphans, and the impoverished. Based on an entertaining form of students’ acquaintance with important events of Russian history, heroes and traditions, an epic situation immersion method confronts the task of moral choice, which they solve together with the epic heroes. This method contributes to students’ cognitive abilities, imaginative development, moral character, and appreciation for their country and ancestors.

Reconciliation Pedagogy as Peacebuilding through Education in the Context of Cameroon

Purpose: The aim of the study was to examine Reconciliation Pedagogy as Peacebuilding through Education in the Context of Cameroon Methodology: Being a literature-based paper, there was introduction of the paper in which some concepts were defined, a review of relevant literature on Cameroonian scholarship about the ongoing crisis, review of global literature on reconciliation pedagogy, a description of the role of a Christian teacher as a reconciliation pedagogue, and a proposed reconciliation pedagogical framework from a Christian perspective. Findings: The Christian Teacher can positively provide good influence to help address the current Anglophone crisis in Cameroon through pedagogy for contextual reconciliation. This would be seen in actual ethical paradigms like forgiveness, compassionate care, honesty, love, justice and equity as Christian virtues of being and doing, which is a potential gap in teachers’ practice in a crisis situation. Hence, the paper seeks to provide a new paradigmatic shift in ethical discernment in teaching pupils/students who are the immediate beneficiaries of reconciliation pedagogy and the society at large. The focus is not on inculcating ideas but in shaping life through teaching and modeling of Christian virtues that would be constructive to the development of students and the society in general. This would be an integrative approach of historical, ethical, spiritual and practical principles and Christian thinking and doing. Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: The paper suggests a contextual pedagogy for the Christian Teacher’s practice which is a form of summary of the roles they can play as reflective pedagogues. Hence, this paper sought to suggest reconciliation pedagogy from a Christian perspective for the Cameroonian context which is a characterized with human abuse and which both teachers and learners are victims. It is hoped that the suggested framework guides the Christian Teacher’s practice towards the reconstruction of the society as a step in the process of reconciliation in view of the current Anglophone crisis in Cameroon.

Anger and Art Ambivalent emotion in art

The present study investigates the depiction of anger in Western visual art, highlighting the paradox of this emotion: its inherent unpleasantness and repulsiveness versus its artistic representation. The authors examine historical transformations in the expression of anger and the mechanisms that render its depiction effective in art. Despite being a fundamental human emotion encountered from birth, anger is surprisingly scarce in Western visual art. Historical artworks often depict actions resulting from anger rather than capturing its raw emotional expression. Kelly Grovier's essay "Art of Feeling: Why We Should Celebrate Anger" posits that the rarity of anger’s depiction may stem from its classification as a deadly sin by early Christian teachings, which stigmatized the emotion. However, significant works such as Delacroix's "Medea" and Gentileschi's "Judith" juxtapose violent acts with serene facial expressions, underscoring a disconnect between action and emotional display. The repulsiveness and transformative impact of anger on human appearance make it a challenging subject for art. Yet, works like Cabanel's "Fallen Angel" and Gérôme's "Truth Coming Out of Her Well" explore this transformation, employing beauty to attract and distortion to repulse, thereby creating a Medusa-like effect. This duality engages viewers and evokes mixed emotions, which enhances an artwork's impact. Furthermore, anger can drive creative innovation, as demonstrated in works by Munch, Picasso, and Kahlo, where personal and societal grievances fuel artistic expression. However, prolonged anger may lead to destructive creativity, emphasizing the complex role of anger in art and its potential for both innovation and hostility. This multifaceted exploration underscores anger’s unique, albeit limited, place in visual arts and its dual capacity to repel and inspire.

The Relationship between Christian Education and Local Wisdom and Students' Negative Behavior in Gunungsitoli City, Nias Islands

This research is motivated by facts about students’ negative behavior or students’ negative behavior in Gunungsitoli City, Nias Islands, the occurrence of which fluctuates. This research aims to analyze the relationship between Christian education and local wisdom and students’ negative behavior in Gunungsitoli City, Nias Islands. This research is based on theories relating to Christian education, local wisdom, students’ negative behavior, the relationship between Christian education and students’ negative behavior, the relationship between local wisdom and students’ negative behavior, the relationship between Christian education and local wisdom and students’ negative behavior, and negative behavior. students in Gunungsitoli City, Nias Islands. The approach in this research uses a quantitative approach, with the correlation association method. Correlation research is useful for analyzing the relationship between a large number of variables in a study, which according to the results of the Normality Test in the One-Sample Kolmogorov-Smirnov table in the SPSS version 26 program shows that the significant value is 0.063 > 0.05, so the data is normally distributed. The data was obtained by distributing questionnaires to 548 respondents in 12 churches domiciled in 6 sub-districts of Gunungsitoli City. This research provides positive and significant results and expectations, both partially known in the Coefficients table in the SPSS version 26 program, where 133.996 > F table value of 2.44, meaning H0 is rejected and Ha is accepted). The magnitude of the relationship between variables X1 and student negative behavior or students’ negative behavior in Gunungsitoli City, Nias Islands. This means that another 24.9% comes from other factors not examined in this study.

Transgressive teaching and the Kingdom of God: Celebrating the 30th anniversary of Teaching to Transgress

This year marks the 30th anniversary of bell hooks’ critical pedagogy classic, Teaching to Transgress. In her book, hooks offers a Black feminist perspective on education as the practice of freedom, putting forward an “engaged pedagogy” that seeks to foster healing and liberation for both teachers and students. This essay aims to honor hooks’ influential text by identifying how it has shaped our efforts to develop kingdom pedagogies. Through a collaborative Christian dialogue, we illuminate how Teaching to Transgress can empower Christian educators to resist domination, cultivate embodied vulnerability, and pursue teaching and learning as a healing enterprise.

Synodal Discernment on a Catechetical Drama called “Service of Light,” Its Impact on the Integral Education and Edification of Faith of the Laity

Synodality is a vital characteristic of the Catholic Church's life and mission, highlighting joint revitalization through listening, discernment, and active participation. Inspired by this concept, researchers started a study exploring the impact of the "Service of Light," a catechetical drama observed during Easter vigil, on local parishioners within the Archdiocese of Nueva Segovia in the Philippines. Employing an exploratory and qualitative approach, the researchers examined the denotative and connotative meanings embedded in images and narratives surrounding this ritual, using Roland Barthes' semiotic model for analysis. The study involved visiting five local Catholic parishes within the archdiocese, conducting purposive sampling for survey interviews, and gathering visuals. Results uncovered meaningful impacts of the Service of Light on the integral Christian education and spiritual edification of the parishioners. The catechetical drama served as a powerful teaching tool that deepened the parishioners’ understanding of Christian doctrine. It helped develop a sense of belonging within their faith community. Moreover, the Service of Light generated spiritual renewal and strengthened individual faith. The ritual's symbolism aroused a deeper connection with God, empowering parishioners to live out their faith more fully in daily life. The Service of Light was acknowledged as a tool of faith that continues to inspire the parishioners to bear fruit for years to come. In conclusion, the study underscores the significance of the Service of Light in parishioners' Christian education and spiritual journey, emphasizing its role in fostering community, deepening understanding of faith, and inspiring personal and communal growth. As a recommendation, the researchers are suggesting future research to explore the perspectives of ordained clergy for a comprehensive understanding of its impact on Christian communities.

The Educational Significance of Feminist Theology in Contemporary Christian Education: Possibilities for a New Reading of Bible - Through the Examples of Biblical Interpretation by Berg, Moltmann, Moltmann-Wendel

The Educational Significance of Feminist Theology in Contemporary Christian Education: Possibilities for a New Reading of Bible - Through the Examples of Biblical Interpretation by Berg, Moltmann, Moltmann-Wendel

THE GENESIS AND GROWTH OF MODERN HEALTH CARE FACILITY IN MIZORAM

Until 1894, scientific health care facility was by and large non-existent in Mizoram (the then Lushai Hills), an isolated hilly state in North East India. In their secluded life, the Mizos maintained their own culture and their traditional belief and practices, language, Codes of justice and morality. It was the British administration and the Christian missionaries who introduced modern health care facilities in the state. The Mizos seems to have been quite receptive to the new system as a result of Christian instruction and the efficacy of the new system of health care.This paper provides an outline of the growth of modern health care facilities in the state since its inception till the dawn of the new millennium. It is desirable that the facility increases over time and should cater to the growing needs of the people with the increase in population and modern health consciousness. It also attempts to throw light on the Mizos traditional concept of illness and afflictions and their own system of treatment so as to get a keener insight into how societys attitude towards modern health care system has changed over time.

How churches make education policy: the churchification of Hungarian education and the social question under religious populism

ABSTRACT Since 2010, Hungary’s authoritarian populist government has radically redefined church-state relations, promoting the governance narrative of building an ‘old-style Christian democracy’. Public education has been reconceptualised within a religious framework and outsourced to religious actors. This article explores how key religious organisations engage with the government’s religious populism and govern their expanding school networks. Given the immanent tension between nativist Christian-conservative identity politics and Christian teachings about the church’s social mission, I focus on how Christian church elites have engaged with the education of underprivileged communities. Four characteristic types of strategic involvement are identified based on church education policies and their legitimacy discourses concerning their (lack of) engagement with the social question. Despite using different approaches to navigate political pressures, both the nativist illiberal and inclusive liberal visions of religion and their corresponding policies have reinforced the structures of segregated education and legitimised the government’s education policy.

Can Systematic Theology Be Saved? Doctrine and Its Discontents

This paper explores recent discussions on the nature and character of Christian doctrine and doctrinal arrangement within leading accounts of systematic theology, that is, the attempt to offer an integrated and cohesive account of the central commitments of the Christian faith. Through such discussion, I argue that the perennial epistemological problem systematic theology faces in its attempts to speak about a (divine) object who definitionally exceeds such speech is related to the specific ethical problem of systematic theology’s performances as a hegemonic discipline, one which often functions to exclude non-white, non-male perspectives. In light of these challenges, I contend that “positive” reasons for continuing systematic theology remain remote; systematic theology cannot be saved. Yet neither can it be avoided, lest such problems are willfully repeated and because of the ways systematic theology continues to be a leading site of doctrinal reflection within Christian education and intellectual reflection. I therefore conclude this paper by exploring two apocalyptic responses to the crises facing systematic theology which advocate for its continuation precisely by calling for its “end”.

Print Media and the Propagation of Christianity in Africa: A Historical View

This paper examines the role of the print media in communicating the gospel to indigenous Africans. Through a historical lens, the study identifies several factors that contributed to the effective use of the print media in the propagation of Christianity across Africa. These factors include the development of orthography for various African languages, the establishment of Western education, the rise of African missionaries, the translation of the Bible into local languages, and the emergence of modern journalism, with a particular focus on Nigeria. The findings reveal that the print media significantly promoted the spread of the gospel by facilitating the contextualisation of Christian teachings, fostering a spirit of ecumenism, advancing Western education, and reinforcing the commitment to fulfilling the Christian mission in Africa. The paper concludes by suggesting that the continued production and distribution of Christian literature such as tracts, magazines, handbills, posters, and further Bible translations into African languages would greatly enhance the ongoing propagation of Christianity throughout the continent.

Prinsip Dasar Kualitas Seorang Pengajar Kristen di Gereja Menurut 1 Timotius 4:6-8

Since the beginning, Christian education has come from the church, the church has become the center or center of Christian religious education so that Christian education in the church should be taken seriously, quality and quality should be improved. The church in the modern era needs qualified teaching staff. The quality of a teacher can be reviewed in the letter 1 Timothy 4:6-8 which is the topic of discussion in this article. By using a qualitative method and an interpretive approach (interpretative design) the author observes the text of 1 Timothy 4:6-8 with the principle of hermeneutic interpretation to reveal and explain the basic principles regarding the quality of Christian teachers in the church. The results found are that the quality of Christian teachers must have knowledge of the scriptures (intellectual) as a basis for teaching and have a good spiritual life (spiritual).

PERAN PSIKOLOGI PERKEMBANGAN DALAM DUNIA PENDIDIKAN ANAK USIA DINI DAN KAITANNYA DENGAN PENDIDIKAN KRISTEN

The role of developmental psychology is very important in early childhood education, because understanding the stages of child development helps educators in designing appropriate and effective curricula. This research examines this role by showing how the principles of developmental psychology can be applied in the context of early childhood education. Apart from that, this research examines the relationship between developmental psychology and Christian education, which emphasizes spiritual and moral values in the care and education of children. This research also examines the problems that occur in early childhood and looks at what factors cause these problems to occur and provide general treatment. By combining developmental theory and Christian education, this research aims to provide insight into the role of developmental psychology in early childhood education which supports children's cognitive and emotional development and shapes their character and morals in relation to Christian education. This research method uses a descriptive qualitative method, with data collection in the form of interview and observation techniques through several questions given, as well as observations made. It is hoped that the results of this research can become a practical guide for educators and parents in implementing educational strategies that are in accordance with child development values and Christian teachings.

PSIKOLOGI DAN PASTORAL KONSELING DALAM PENDIDIKAN ORANG DEWASA

This article discusses the important role of developmental psychology in adult education, especially in the context of Christian education. Understanding the characteristics of adult development, such as cognitive, social, emotional, and spiritual development, is essential for Christian educators to design effective and relevant educational programs. This article describes several principles of adult education based on developmental psychology, such as adult-centered learning, relevant learning, collaborative learning, and sustainable learning. Furthermore, this article discusses how the principles of Christian education can be integrated with developmental psychology to create holistic and meaningful educational programs for adults. The research method used is literature with data collection techniques that identify sources relevant to the research topic. This can be books, journal articles, research reports, theses, dissertations and other documents that can be accessed in the library or online. Data Collection: After identifying relevant sources, the researcher collects data by reading and recording important information that is in accordance with the research objectives. Data Classification: The data that has been collected is then classified based on certain themes or topics to make the analysis process easier. Data Analysis: Data that has been classified is then explained to find patterns, concepts, or theories that are relevant to the research topic. This analysis can be descriptive analysis, comparative analysis, or critical analysis. Synthesis and Interpretation: The results of data analysis are then synthesized and interpreted to provide a deeper understanding of the research topic. Researchers connect the findings obtained with existing theories or concepts to answer research questions.

Upaya Proaktif Guru PAK dalam Mengatasi Pengaruh Negatif Fear of Missing Out pada Kesehatan Mental Remaja

The Fear of Missing Out (FoMO) phenomenon that is increasingly prevalent in the digital age has a significant impact on the mental health of adolescents, including among Christian teenagers. FoMO is characterized by feelings of anxiety due to fear of being left behind from other people's activities or achievements, often triggered by social media. This study aims to identify proactive efforts that Christian Religious Education (PAK) teachers can make in overcoming the negative influence of FoMO on adolescent mental health. The method used is a qualitative study with a descriptive approach, through in-depth interviews and observations of PAK teachers and adolescents in a Christian education environment. This study also used a literature review to strengthen the understanding of the role of PAK teachers in the spiritual and social context. The results show that PAK teachers have a crucial role in guiding adolescents to understand their spiritual identity, teaching the wise use of technology, and creating a learning environment that supports mental health. PAK teachers can also be role models who motivate adolescents to focus on a personal relationship with God and not get caught up in social comparisons. With these efforts, it is hoped that adolescents can overcome FoMO pressure and develop better mental health.

Christian education of young people is a guarantee of Ukraine's national security in the context of the Russian-Ukrainian war

The article explores the crucial role of Christian education for the youth in the context of fortifying Ukraine's national security, particularly during the Russian-Ukrainian war. An analysis of research and publications indicates that Christian education contributes to the development of resilient individuals grounded in high moral values, possessing advanced social responsibility, and capable of self-sacrifice for the benefit of the homeland. An essential component involves instilling mercy, tolerance, and patriotism in the youth. The article's objective is to study the impact of Christian education on the youth on Ukraine's national security and to identify ways to strengthen it in wartime conditions. The article provides an example of the successful implementation of Christian education among student youth in collaboration between the Ivano-Frankivsk National Medical University and the clergy of the Ivano-Frankivsk Eparchy of the Ukrainian Greek-Catholic Church. The experience of organizing meetings between priests and youth, as well as educators, in university and outreach settings aimed at the development and strengthening of spirituality among both students and their mentors, is discussed. The main conclusions of the article underscore the importance of Christian education for the reinforcement of Ukraine's national security.

The Influence Of Role Conflict, Social Support, And Work Life Balance On Psychological Well-being And Women's Career Development At Hope Christian Education Foundation

This research aims to explore the influence of role conflict, social support, and work-life balance on the psychology well-being and career development of women at Christian College Foundation Hope. The study employs a quantitative approaches using questionnaires, interviews, observations, and literature review methods. Data analysis will be conducted using Partials Least Squares (PLS), which is a component of the Structural Equations Modeling (SEM) framework. The results indicate that family social support has a negative influence on dual-role conflict. Higher family social support is associated with lower levels of dual-role conflict experienced by women, thus minimizing such conflicts and aiding women in focusing more on their career development. Additionally, achieving a balance between life and work is a crucial need for individuals in seeking meaning and quality in their lives. Therefore, social support from both family and work environments is essential for women to pursue their careers without neglecting other roles. The findings of this research are expected to contribute to a better understanding of the dual-role conflicts experienced by working women and their impacts on career development.

Unlocking meaning: Truth-conditional semantic and syntactic analysis in the Bible

This research focused on complex conditional sentences in the Christian bible, employing truth-conditional semantics and syntactic analysis to uncover their theological messages. A qualitative study analyzed 20 verses, categorized into four types of conditional sentences according to Ferdinand de Saussure's syntagmatic and paradigmatic relations. It involved word analysis, structural classification, context correlation, synonymous exploration, and historical and theological consideration. The findings revealed several key insights. First, conditional sentences in the Christian bible predominantly featured compound-complex structures with an active voice, highlighting subjects and actions in religious verses. Second, they adhered to declarative formats, aligning with truth-telling principles in religious contexts. Third, complex structures and subordinate clauses conveyed conditional details, reasons, and situations, elaborating on the interplay between syntax and semantics. This research enriched our understanding of the relationship among verb forms, modal verbs, and diverse meanings within English conditional sentence types in the Christian bible. Fourth, this research had a significant social impact on human development from a theological perspective by enhancing spiritual growth, critical thinking, and ethical understanding. It promoted personal transformation and reflective faith, providing religious leaders with tools to interpret scripture more accurately. Additionally, the research clarified how biblical language communicated moral imperatives, supported ethical frameworks, and facilitated interfaith dialogue. Preserving theological heritage contributed to the holistic development of individuals and communities. Ultimately, this study aimed to ensure the Bible's relevance in shaping social behavior aligned with Christian teachings.

PENTINGNYA AJARAN AGAMA KRISTEN DALAM FASE PERKEMBANGAN PSIKOLOGI ANAK USIA 8-9 TAHUN

This article examines the importance of Christian religious teachings in the psychological development of 8-9 year old children using a literature review method. Through literature analysis, it is found that Christian teachings play a significant role in the cognitive, emotional, moral, and social development of children. Christian values such as love, honesty, and forgiveness help children understand concepts of right and wrong, as well as develop empathy and critical thinking skills. Religious activities also contribute to mental health and strong self-identity. Furthermore, social interactions within the church community support the development of social skills and children’s sense of competence. In conclusion, Christian religious teachings provide a strong foundation for the holistic development of children, shaping positive character traits and supporting their success in social and academic life.