Pengalaman Eksistensial Lansia Penderita Hipertensi: Studi Fenomenologis-Teologis di Jemaat GMIM Betlehem Lansot

Abstract

This study aims to understand and describe the lived experiences of older adults with hypertension in interpreting spirituality, illness, and medication adherence at the GMIM Betlehem Lansot Congregation, and to formulate contextual pastoral implications based on these experiences. The study is theoretically significant for the development of pastoral theology and phenomenological studies and practically relevant for churches seeking to develop elderly care that integrates spiritual, medical, familial, and cultural dimensions. This study used a qualitative, phenomenological approach. Participants were purposively selected and consisted of eight older adults with hypertension and two key informants, namely a pastor and an elder. Data were collected through participant observation and in-depth interviews and analyzed through epoché/bracketing, identification of significant statements, clustering of meaning units, and the construction of textual and structural descriptions to identify the essence of the participants’ experiences. The findings revealed three main essences: illness as an existential experience understood through Calvin’s doctrine of providence; medication adherence as a dialectic between faith and reason in light of Bonhoeffer’s concept of costly grace; and culture and social relationships as horizons of meaning through mapalus and semali/masaali in dialogue with Niebuhr’s theology of Christ and culture. The study concludes that pastoral care should begin with the lived experiences of older adults through listening, theological reflection, strengthening family and community networks, and supporting responsible treatment practices. Churches therefore need to develop pastoral care models that are personal, contextual, and sustainable.