The Transformation of the Function of Church Music: From Ritual Liturgy to a Stage for the Expression of Nationalism

Abstract

Church music plays an integral role in liturgy, the development of spirituality, and congregational participation, but its use as a form of social and national service in the public sphere remains limited. This study aims to analyze the function of church music in liturgical life and its potential as a medium for social and national service in the celebration of the 81st Anniversary of the Proclamation of Independence of the Republic of Indonesia in 2026. The study employs a descriptive qualitative approach with a case study design. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews, moderate participatory observation, and documentation of worship services, music rehearsals, and national activities. Informants included pastors, music or liturgy coordinators, musicians, worship leaders, song leaders, dancers, and congregants. Data analysis utilized the interactive model by Miles, Huberman, and Saldaña, while data validity was strengthened through triangulation and member checking. The research findings indicate that church music plays an integral role in liturgy, deepens the experience of faith, enhances congregational participation, and strengthens community solidarity and identity. The involvement of the Soli Deo Gloria Papua community in the “Evening of Praise and Prayer for Indonesia” ahead of the 81st anniversary of Indonesia’s Proclamation of Independence demonstrates that church music can serve as a medium for the convergence of faith, culture, national identity, and social relations through spiritual, national, and regional songs, as well as musical and dance collaborations. However, such ministry remains sporadic due to limitations in internal focus, expertise, time, repertoire, resources, funding, and coordination. The study recommends the development of a well-planned, sustainable, and collaborative social-national music program. This development is expected to expand the church’s contribution to building solidarity, tolerance, togetherness, and national consciousness through contextual musical practices within Indonesia’s truly diverse society.