Studi Kasus Pasangan Lintas Denominasa Gereja Kristen Protestan dan Katolik di Jemaat GPI Papua Elim Bomberay

Abstract

Bridewealth (Belis) is one of the important elements of traditional marriage that is still maintained by many communities in Indonesia. In practice, couples from Protestant and Chatolic denominations often face various challenges, both in the implementation of belis and in adjusting their spiritual life within the family. Differences in denominations may lead to different views regarding worship practices, children’s faithbeducation, and participation in church life. Therefore, this study is important to understand how interdenominational cuoples build harmonious family relationships without neglecting cultural values and their respective beliefs. This study aims to describe the implementation of belis and the family life of couples from Protestant and Catholic denominations in the GPI Papua Elim Bomberay congregation. The research employed a qualitative method with a case study approach through interviews, observations, and documentation. The findings show that belis is still regarded as a form of respect for the woman’s family and as part of cultural identity. Denominational differences are not the main obstacle in building family harmony when couples maintain good communication, mutual respect, and receive support from both family and church. In addition, couples seek mutual understanding in practicing their faith so that harmonious relationships can be maintained within the family. Based on the results of this study, it can be concluded that the tradition of belis and denominational differences between Protestant and Catholic churches can be balanced when couples demonstrate attitudes of acceptance, respect, and cooperation in building a family founded on love and Christian values. The tradition of belis countinues to hold meaning as a form of appreciation for women and as asymbol of kinship ties within society