Tongkonan Sebagai Media Pastoral Konseling Keluarga di Lembang Maroson Kecamatan Rembon Kabupaten Tana Toraja

Abstract

The family is the smallest social unit and the primary foundation of community life, including among the Torajan people. This study aims to analyze and evaluate the effectiveness of Tongkonan as a medium for pastoral family counseling in addressing disharmony, conflict, and internal issues, while rooted in local wisdom. A qualitative method with a field study approach was used in Lembang Maroson, Rembon Subdistrict, Tana Toraja Regency. The findings show that Tongkonan plays a strategic role as a space for family communication, conflict resolution, and decision-making. Core family values such as cooperation, deliberation, and togetherness are actively practiced. Although the community does not formally use theological or psychological terms like pastoral counseling, the guidance provided by traditional and church leaders reflects its essence. Tongkonan serves as a contextual medium that harmoniously integrates customary values and Christianity in pastoral ministry. The effectiveness of this approach lies in its emotional and cultural accessibility, though it still requires enhancement through training and collaboration between the church and traditional leaders to become more structured and impactful.