Teologi Praksis: Pelayanan Pastoral Gereja kepada Orang Dengan Gangguan Jiwa (ODGJ)

Abstract

This study aims to examine the role and implementation of church pastoral care for People with Mental Disorders (PMD) at Ratumbuysang Mental Hospital from the perspective of practical theology. The research focuses on how the church embodies Christian faith through holistic, inclusive, and contextual pastoral accompaniment. This study is expected to contribute both theoretically and practically by enriching discussions on practical theology and offering insights for churches in developing pastoral ministries that are responsive to mental health issues. A descriptive qualitative method was employed, utilizing literature review, field observations, and in-depth interviews with medical personnel and individuals involved in pastoral accompaniment at Ratumbuysang Mental Hospital. The findings indicate that pastoral services such as worship, prayer, and the presence of the church have a positive impact on strengthening patients’ inner resilience, sustaining their faith, and fostering hope among people with mental disorders. However, the study also reveals that church involvement, particularly from major denominations, remains inconsistent and unsustainable. In conclusion, pastoral care for people with mental disorders should be understood as an integral part of the church’s mission, requiring a continuous, empathetic, and incarnational presence in order to reflect Christ’s love and restore human dignity amid psychological suffering.