USD Conference Systems, Theology International Conference 2025

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‘Eternal Life’ From the Council of Nicea As the Theme of The Catechesis of Hope for The Elderly in The Neighborhood of St. Paulus Ngadiwinatan Kumetira
Karolina Sintia R Wahyuni, Patrisius Mutiara Andalas

Last modified: 2025-03-10

Abstract


This study started with meetings with the elderly in the neighborhood of St. Paulus Ngadiwinatan, where the majority of the population is elderly.  However, some elderly persons have experienced a fall in their level of productivity due to a decline in bodily function. This is among the factors that make old age frightening to many people, especially the elderly. In reality, older adults also need help from others to make the most of their senior years as an opportunity to give their lives more meaning. As at the Council of Nicaea, the elderly looked forward to the “eternal life” that would come in fulfillment of God's work of salvation. By providing catechesis of hope, the church functions as a pilgrim companion for the elderly, helping them prepare for eternal life with joy and courage. One of the local churches that serves as a companion for elderly people is St. Paulus Ngadiwinatan Kumetiran. How well is the St. Paulus Ngadiwinatan Kumetiran neighborhood's thematic geriatric catechesis on eternal life being implemented? With qualitative research methods carried out from March 2024 to March 2025 in the St. Paulus Ngadiwinatan Parish of the Immaculate Heart of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Kumetiran, using observation, documentation and interview data collection techniques. Interim research findings show that loneliness, abandonment, and fear of death are the dominant feelings experienced by the elderly during their old age. The catechesis of hope with the theme of eternal life of hope brings opportunities for the elderly to await the fulfillment of God's work of salvation with joy and courage.


Keywords


Catechesis of hope, Elderly, Eternal Life, Nicaea Council, Pope Francis