A Contextual Pastoral Approach in Strengthening the Ecological Awareness of the People
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.65150/EP-gjefm/V2E8/2026-02Keywords:
contextual pastoral, ecological awareness, phenomenology, environmental spirituality, faith accompaniment.Abstract
The ongoing ecological crisis has contributed to the emergence of human behavior that deviates from normative principles, while simultaneously shaping the lifestyles of society at large. Contextual pastoral care is understood as a form of faith accompaniment that stems from local social, cultural, and environmental conditions, not simply the uniform delivery of teachings without regard for the congregation's background. This study uses a qualitative method with a phenomenological paradigm to explore the experiences of congregational companions and the surrounding community in experiencing their daily lives and work. Data collection was conducted through in-depth interviews, participant observation, and document review of pastoral activities, which were then processed through data reduction, textural-structural presentation, and synthesis in accordance with phenomenological principles. In addition to acting as reflective companions, pastoral workers also play a crucial role in successfully instilling ecological principles into the lives of the congregation. This study recommends that religious institutions design more participatory, local wisdom-based, and sustainable pastoral programs as a long-term strategic step in fostering ecological awareness among the faithful.
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Copyright (c) 2026 Agnes Monica, Silvester Adinuhgra , Yustinus Dwi Andriyanto (Author)
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