Asian Journal of Philosophy and Religion

The Importance of People's Understanding of the Liturgy of the Catholic Church in the Border Areas of Indonesia and the State of Timor Leste

2026-04-10T13:29:45+00:00

This study aims to analyze the importance of people's understanding of the liturgy of the Catholic Church in the border area of Indonesia and Timor Leste. The research was carried out through a descriptive qualitative approach with interviews, observations, and documentation methods of parish priests, catechists, liturgical officers, and local faithful. The research process was carried out during a scheduled pastoral observation period in the border parish environment. The results of the study show that the level of understanding of the meaning and order of liturgical celebrations still varies, influenced by the background of faith education, liturgical guidance, and the local cultural context. These findings affirm the importance of contextually strengthening liturgical catechesis in order to increase the active participation of the faithful in the liturgical life of the Church in the border areas.

A Biblical Review of the "Bank Emok" Business Practiced by Believers

2026-04-22T06:36:44+00:00

This study examines the compatibility of this practice with biblical teachings and its implications for the spiritual lives of believers. Christian participation in this system creates moral dilemmas and damages the church's prophetic witness. Using a qualitative, library-based theological-normative approach, the research analyzes biblical texts, theological literature on usury and professional ethics, and empirical studies on Bank Emok. Findings indicate that high-interest lending directed at the poor contradicts Scripture's consistent emphasis on justice, compassion, and protection for the vulnerable (Exod. 22:25; Lev. 25:36–37; Luke 6:34–35). Through Watchman Nee's framework of occupational ethics, Bank Emok is classified as a "pure trader" enterprise that transfers rather than creates wealth rendering it theologically problematic for believers.

Jesus’ Discipleship and the Failure of the Disciples in the Gospel of Mark according to Dietrich Bonhoeffer

2026-04-11T14:01:38+00:00

This article examines Jesus’ discipleship in the Gospel of Mark by foregrounding the disciples’ failure as integral to the formation process. Contemporary church practices often reduce discipleship to doctrinal instruction and measurable outcomes, resulting in a fragmented understanding of Christian formation. Using qualitative library research, this study analyzes key Markan narratives in dialogue with Dietrich Bonhoeffer’s theology of Nachfolge. The findings show that failure is not a disruption but a formative space sustained by Jesus’ faithful presence. This study offers a theological corrective to success-oriented models of discipleship and proposes a relational, process-oriented framework, contributing to biblical studies and practical theology by reframing failure as essential to authentic Christian formation.

Understanding Euthanasia in the Light of Christ's Suffering: A Christian Ethical View on the End-of-Life Decision

2026-04-22T06:45:14+00:00

Euthanasia has become an increasingly relevant issue in modern society, especially as medical technology develops that allow humans to prolong or shorten life. This study aims to explore the relevance of Christ’s suffering as an ethical guide in facing end-of-life decisions, particularly related to euthanasia, from a Christian perspective. Using a qualitative approach based on textual analysis and literature review, the research examines the concept of suffering in the Bible and Christian theological writings. The main findings reveal that Christ’s suffering can serve as a model for Christians to perceive suffering as a valuable aspect of human dignity, offering an ethical alternative that rejects euthanasia as a quick solution. In conclusion, this perspective has significant implications for pastoral care, church teachings, and provides practical guidance for Christian medical professionals in supporting terminally ill patients.

Identification of Land Acquisition Planning Documents for the Proposed Religious Tourism Parking Lot at the Ki Ageng Pandanaran Mausoleum in Semarang City

2026-04-15T02:19:27+00:00

The research methodology uses a descriptive qualitative approach through regulatory analysis, inventory of existing conditions, and conformity assessment with the Semarang City Regional Spatial Plan. The results of the study show that the existing parking conditions in the cemetery area are not able to accommodate the increasing number of vehicles. The required land area is around 1,139 m² with the status of land owned by residents, so a fair land procurement mechanism is needed and in accordance with the rules. This study recommends the preparation of a Feasibility Study, Detailed Engineering Design, and environmental analysis as the basis for development implementation. Thus, the preparation of the DPPT is expected to provide legal certainty, protection for affected communities, and support the sustainable development of religious tourism destinations.