Pengalaman Rohani Orang Sakit dalam Menerima Pelayanan Komuni Kudus di Paroki ST. Yoseph Naikoten

Abstract

This study examines in depth the spiritual experiences of sick parishioners in receiving Holy Communion ministry at Saint Joseph Naikoten Parish. Specifically, the study aims to understand five main aspects: the practice of Holy Communion ministry, the spiritual experiences of the sick after receiving Holy Communion, the specific spiritual dimensions that transformed and strengthened, the dynamics of the pastoral relationship established between the sick and the ministers of Holy Communion, and the pastoral implications of this ministry for the future development of pastoral care for the sick. A qualitative approach was employed using methodological triangulation through interviews with sick parishioners, Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion, family members, and Parish Pastoral Council (PPC) members; participant observation of home visits for Holy Communion ministry; and document analysis of pastoral records, including the database of sick parishioners and ministry activity reports. The findings reveal that the ministry of Holy Communion functions not merely as a formal sacramental ritual but also as a profound spiritual experience that significantly strengthens faith, hope in eternal life, inner peace amid physical suffering, a deeper understanding of the Paschal Mystery in the daily lives of the sick. Furthermore, this ministry effectively fosters loving and supportive relationships among the sick, the ministers of Holy Communion, and the wider Church community. This study proposes several practical and concrete recommendations for improving the quality of pastoral ministry at the parish level, including enhanced training for ministers, strengthened coordination among pastoral regions, and the integration of sacramental ministry with ongoing spiritual accompaniment.