The Competence of Christian Religious Education Teachers in Integrating Christian Ecological Education (A Case Study at SMP Negeri 1 Sirombu)
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Abstract
The global environmental crisis presents an urgent moral and existential challenge, requiring education to play a transformative role in shaping ecological awareness and responsibility. Within the Indonesian context, Christian Religious Education (CRE) is strategically positioned to integrate biblical principles of stewardship with ecological education. This study investigates the competence of a CRE teacher at SMP Negeri 1 Sirombu, West Nias, in embedding ecological values into classroom instruction and extracurricular activities. Using a qualitative case study approach, data were collected through classroom observations, semi-structured interviews, and document analysis. The findings reveal that the teacher demonstrates strong theological competence, grounded in the biblical ethic of stewardship, and translates this understanding into practice through thematic, contextual, and project-based learning. Strategies such as ecological journaling, tree-planting initiatives, and community clean-up activities enabled students to embody faith through ecological responsibility. Student responses were notably positive, reflecting shifts in ecological behavior and increased ability to link Christian faith with environmental care. However, challenges remain, particularly the lack of specialized training, limited localized teaching resources, and insufficient institutional support. These obstacles highlight the dependence on individual initiative rather than systemic integration. The study underscores the need for structured professional development programs, cross-disciplinary collaboration, and the creation of contextualized teaching materials. The findings contribute to broader discussions on ecological pedagogy by emphasizing that CRE has the potential to cultivate students who are intellectually, spiritually, and ecologically responsible. Ultimately, embedding ecological values within Christian education aligns with the biblical mandate of stewardship while responding to contemporary environmental challenges.
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