Pengembangan Kurikulum Gereja Berbasis Karakter Generasi Z Dalam Pendidikan Iman Kristen

Abstract

Generation Z (born 1997-2012) faces critical disconnection from church communities, with only 14.3% forming close friendships through church versus 64.4% from campus. Despite 75% identifying as religious, merely 16% seek faith communities during crises, while 51% report mental health as their primary concern. This research examines character-based church curriculum development aligned with Generation Z characteristics in Christian faith education. Methods Qualitative methodology employing comprehensive literature review and phenomenological approaches, analyzing Gen Z characteristics and church curriculum practices through expository analysis. Five critical Gen Z needs emerged: caring community (33.3%), faith growth clarity (15.4%), appropriate worship (14.6%), relevant sermons (14.4%), and ministry involvement (11.8%). Two primary characteristics conflict with traditional curriculum: instant-gratification mindset resisting long-process formation and one-way sermons (59% church departure rate), and hyper-expressiveness requiring transparent two-way communication (79.5% active social media engagement). Churches must transform from monological transmission to dialogical frameworks. Interactive sermon formats with Q&A sessions demonstrate 40% engagement increase. Creative seminars utilizing visual arts, technology, and open forums address mental health concerns while maintaining biblical foundations. Effective church curriculum must serve as "trusted shoulder" providing safe spaces where Gen Z feels authentically heard and connected, bridging contemporary issues with biblical teaching through relevant, practical, inclusive approaches that resonate with Gen Z's critical, universal, and responsive characteristics.