The Influence of Ice Breaking Strategy on Student Learning Interest in Christian Religious Education: A Study at SD Negeri 175761 Pulo Pakpahan, North Tapanuli Regency

Siltuanus Simanungkalit — 2026-05-30

This research aims to determine the positive and significant influence of the Ice Breaking strategy by Christian Religious Education (CRE) teachers on the learning interest of fourth-grade students at SD Negeri No 175761 Pulo Pakpahan, Pangaribuan District, North Tapanuli Regency, in the 2025/2026 academic year. The study employed a quantitative method with descriptive analysis. The population consisted of 161 Protestant Christian students, with a sample of 30 fourth-grade students selected through purposive sampling. Data were collected using a closed questionnaire consisting of 30 items (16 items for variable X and 14 items for variable Y), which had been tested for validity and reliability. The results showed a positive and significant influence between Ice Breaking strategies and student learning interest, evidenced by correlation coefficient rxy = 0.587, t-test value = 3.805, regression equation Ŷ = 26.92 + 0.38X, and determination coefficient of 34.4%. The F-test value of 14.73 exceeded the F-table value of 1.62 at α=0.05, indicating that the alternative hypothesis is accepted. This research confirms that Ice Breaking strategies significantly contribute to enhancing student learning interest in Christian Religious Education. The findings imply that CRE teachers should consider implementing structured Ice Breaking activities as an effective pedagogical strategy to create conducive learning environments and foster student engagement.

Liturgical Renewal and the Formation of Faith

Jusuf Hutapea — 2026-07-03

The contemporary church faces a profound challenge in nurturing the spiritual lives of Millennials and Generation Z, as these generations demonstrate declining affiliation and participation in traditional religious institutions. While much scholarly attention has focused on pragmatic strategies to increase attendance and engagement among young congregants, this study argues that liturgical renewal must be understood primarily as a means of faith formation rather than merely as a tool for attracting young people. This research aims to analyze how liturgical renewal can be intentionally designed to nurture a resilient, deeply rooted spirituality that enables younger generations to navigate the complexities of a secular and digitally saturated world. Employing a qualitative case study approach, this research investigates churches that have implemented significant liturgical reforms, examining their impact on the spiritual growth, theological understanding, and long-term faith commitment of young congregants. Data were collected through participant observation, in-depth interviews with church leaders and young adults, and analysis of liturgical documents, and were analyzed thematically. The findings reveal that engagement-focused renewal without intentional formation produces superficial results, while formation-oriented liturgical practices integrating reflective spaces, intergenerational dialogue, creative expression, and digital media foster deep engagement with Christian tradition. Effective models of renewal prioritize the formation of spiritual habits, theological literacy, and a robust sense of belonging, equipping young believers to sustain their faith through transitions, doubts, and cultural pressures. This study contends that liturgical renewal, when approached theologically rather than pragmatically, serves as a vital strategy for cultivating resilient faith that can withstand the challenges of contemporary life. The research recommends a holistic approach to liturgical development that integrates formation-oriented practices, intentional catechesis, and ongoing evaluation to ensure alignment with the spiritual needs of younger generations.

Journal of Religious and Socio-Cultural

The Influence of Ice Breaking Strategy on Student Learning Interest in Christian Religious Education: A Study at SD Negeri 175761 Pulo Pakpahan, North Tapanuli Regency

Liturgical Renewal and the Formation of Faith