Persepsi pemimpin kelompok kecil mengenai peran mereka sebagai pemimpin gembala dalam pemuridan siswa di Perkantas Regional Jawa Timur

Abstract

Guidance for adolescents is essential, as adolescence is a period of identity formation within the human developmental transition. Given the complex turmoil of changes, challenges, and needs characterizing this period, the most appropriate guidance method is relational discipleship within small groups. In 1974, in Surabaya, Perkantas began expanding its ministry to adolescents through small-group discipleship—specifically "Growing Together Groups" (KTB)—which serve as the core of Perkantas' student ministry. Small Group Leaders (PKK) act as shepherd-leaders, shepherding the Small Group Members (AKK). The East Java regional branch of Perkantas has carried out this student ministry for the past five decades (1974–2024). In this context, the primary research question addressed is: How do Small Group Leaders perceive their role as shepherd-leaders in student discipleship within the Perkantas East Java region? This primary question is broken down into three sub-questions: (1) How do PKK understand the role of a shepherd-leader? (2) How do PKK enact the shepherd-leader role with AKK? (3) What dynamics do PKK experience while shepherding AKK? To answer these questions, the study employs a basic qualitative research design, with data collected through semi-structured, face-to-face interviews featuring open-ended questions. Data analysis procedures involved creating verbatim transcripts, coding the data, and compiling a qualitative narrative report. The findings indicate that PKK define shepherd-leadership through three primary roles: guide, provider of needs, and protector. The enactment of the shepherd-leader role with AKK is closely linked to small-group dynamics. This enactment encompasses four areas: providing a peer-based faith community for AKK; nurturing the spiritual and character aspects of AKK; equipping AKK with necessary skills; and assisting AKK in planning their futures. Regarding the dynamics experienced by the PKK in shepherding the AKK, three key aspects were identified: the PKK faced external obstacles, the PKK grappled with internal struggles, and the PKK achieved success in the holistic growth of the AKK.