Back to the Roots:

The Role of Indonesian Christian Youth Ministry in Shaping the Demographic Bonus Towards a Transformative and Rooted Future

Abstract

According to the Head of the Education and Training Center of the Indonesian Central Bureau of Statistics, the projected population of Indonesia in 2035 is estimated to reach 305 million and is predicted to increase to 348 million by 2050. Of this population, about 230 million are in the productive age group, that is, ages 15 to 64. This phenomenon is known as a demographic bonus, a crucial momentum for the advancement of the nation, offering substantial potential in terms of human resources and economic potential that can be optimized to advance the nation. In this context, the youth, as the largest population, become the main narrative pioneers. A careful response to the demographic bonus by Christian youth ministry is essential to equip them. This paper aims to propose ideas and concepts for the role of Christian youth ministry in responding to the demographic bonus. By integrating the Indonesian generation theory: “Generation Back to Roots” by Muhammad Faisal and linking it with the Transformative Urban Youth Ministry Model from the Center for Youth Service Study and Development (PSPPKM), this study highlights that a proper understanding of the generation, as developed by Faisal, provides relevant solutions to prepare the young generation to face the demographic bonus. The Indonesian generation theory, built using the archetype theory based on the history and social conditions of each generation, provides a unique foundation for understanding the generation in depth. Meanwhile, PSPPKM, with its model, forms the youth as agents of shalom to be involved in transforming their cities, supported by in-depth research on Indonesian Christian youth. Through constructive dialogue between these findings, this paper offers two main ideas in youth services: first, services rooted in Indonesian culture and history, connecting the faith of young people with their identity as Indonesian citizens who have a unique culture and history; second, services that contribute to the transformation of the nation, where the youth become active agents of shalom in various aspects of Indonesia’s development.