PERAN PENDETA SEBAGAI GEMBALA JEMAAT: MELAYANI ATAU DILAYANI?

Abstract

Pastoral ministry is fundamentally rooted in the calling to serve, as exemplified by Jesus
Christ, the Good Shepherd. However, in today’s ecclesial context, it is not uncommon to
find situations where pastors are positioned or even positions themselves as those ho
are served rather than as servants. This study aims to critically examine the role of
pastors as shepherds of the congregation amid the tension between the calling to serve
and the tendency to be served. The research employs a qualitative method with a
pastoral case study approach by interviews, observation, and reflection on ministry
experiences within the congregation. The findings reveal a shift in the understanding of
pastoral ministry, influenced by congregational expectation, church culture, structural
workload, and the psychological and spiritual conditions of pastors. This shif affects
pastor’s relationships, the quality of shepherding, and the spirituality of ministry. The
study emphasizes the importance of continuous theological reflection and spiritual
formation for pastors to remain faithful to their identity as servants and shepherds of
God’s people. These findings are expected to contribute to the development of pastoral
theology and the practice of church ministry that is healthier, relational, and centered on
the example of Christ.