Religious Life and Subjective Experiences in the Mandailing Natal Community: Subjective Experiences in the Practice of Religious Devotion within the Local Community

Abstract

This study explores the role of religious service programs in shaping the spiritual and social experiences of the Mandailing Natal community, a predominantly Muslim society facing the challenges of modernization and globalization. While previous research has focused on the general impacts of religious education, there is limited understanding of how these programs affect individuals’ subjective experiences and daily practices. The aim of this study is to fill this gap by examining how participants perceive and implement religious teachings in their daily lives. Using a phenomenological approach, we explored participants’ experiences through in-depth interviews and observations, revealing that these programs not only deepen participants' understanding of religious teachings but also significantly influence their daily decision-making processes and interpersonal relationships. Key findings include an increase in spiritual engagement, such as heightened frequency and quality of prayers, and stronger community bonds characterized by mutual support and collaboration. Additionally, participants reported challenges in balancing traditional religious practices with modern lifestyle demands, highlighting areas for improvement in program design. These insights contribute to a deeper understanding of the intersection between religion, community engagement, and social transformation, offering implications for the development of more effective religious education programs in similar contexts.