USD Conference Systems, Theology International Conference 2025

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The Importance of The Psalm 146 for the Church in Doing Pastoral Care for The Migrants
Klaudius Heronimus Luruk

Last modified: 2025-03-08

Abstract


Psalm 146 is called as a psalm of praise. The gist idea is a praise for God’s omnipotence. It elaborates profound character of God as a hope, helper, protector, savior and so on.  Undoubtedly, the writer sees God as the reliable power. As this time, the migrants often seek for refuge and the reliable power in their vulnerable situation. So, the presence of the Church is so significant. Base on the notions of God’s character in Psalm 146, the Church is actively presence in doing the pastoral care for all the migrants and their family left behind as well. Migration is a massive phenomenon since long time ago. It continuously happens and never end up to this era. There are numerous of reasons why the people take the decision to migrate which is economic, security (war), disaster, and also many other reasons behind. Moving out from the borders of motherland and enter the new land is more challenging. Beginning from the departure to the arrival they face uncountable obstacles making them fall into desperation, sick, and even die. In fact, they are very rampant to be the victim of the crimes against humanity. Therefore, the essential aim of this paper is to dig deeply how significant the Psalm 146 in one hand inspiring the migrants in their journey and in the other hand is for the mission of the Church. Generally, this Psalm encourages: First, the migrants to hope, trust, and offer their life to the providence of God. It is clearly said that God always watch over them. Second, it is the invitation for everyone, primarily the Christians to be the ambassador of God to the migrants. During the 109th World Day of Migrants and Refugees year 2023, Pope Francis in on his message tells everyone should see the migrant’s presence as Christ who comes to knock our door. We should open. So that, the migrants feel home even though they are not at home. At the same time, to empower the family left behind.