EVANGELISASI MELALUI BUDAYA LOKAL SEBAGAI UPAYA PASTORAL GEREJA

Abstract

This study discusses evangelization through local culture as a pastoral effort of the Church in Waibalun. The study is motivated by the strong existence of local culture in the life of the Waibalun community and the Church’s involvement in appreciating culture as a means of proclaiming the Gospel. The problem of this study is how the Church carries out evangelization through local culture in Waibalun and how local culture supports the life of the Church community. This study aims to understand the relationship between local culture and evangelization in Church life in Waibalun. The method used is data-based pastoral research with a descriptive qualitative approach through interviews, observation, and documentation. The results show that local culture contains values of brotherhood, solidarity, respect for human dignity, and togetherness that are in line with Gospel values. The Church in Waibalun appreciates local culture through the involvement of traditional leaders in Church activities, the use of cultural symbols in liturgy, and pastoral cooperation with indigenous communities. Evangelization through local culture helps the faithful understand the Gospel contextually and strengthens the relationship between the Church and society.