Effort of Poverty Alleviation with Towuntu Theology in the GMIM Moriah Towuntu Church

Abstract

Poverty remains a multidimensional and persistent social issue in many rural communities in Indonesia, including Southeast Minahasa Regency. Previous studies on poverty alleviation have primarily emphasized economic and structural approaches, while limited attention has been given to contextual theological frameworks as community-based empowerment models. This study aims to analyze the role of Towuntu Theology as a contextual and faith-based approach to sustainable poverty alleviation within the GMIM Moriah Towuntu congregation. This research employed a qualitative exploratory design using in-depth interviews, participant observation, and documentation. Eight informants were selected through snowball sampling based on their socioeconomic conditions and involvement in church life. Data validity was strengthened through triangulation of sources and thematic analysis. The findings reveal that poverty within the congregation is influenced not only by structural-economic limitations but also by low social motivation, dependency culture, and weak participation in communal and spiritual activities. The study identifies three major dimensions of Towuntu Theology for community transformation: (1) biblical reflection through worship and spiritual formation, (2) practical empowerment through work ethics and economic productivity, and (3) missiological service through social care and educational support. The novelty of this study lies in the formulation of Towuntu Theology as a contextual theological model integrating spirituality, community empowerment, and sustainable social transformation. This model contributes to the development of faith-based poverty alleviation discourse within Global South theology and practical theology studies.