The Role of the Church in Motivating Entrepreneurship to Improve the Economy of Indigenous Peoples in. Papua, Indonesia

The novelty of this research is to prove that the congregation has not been able to encourage and motivate the growth of entrepreneurship to improve the economy of indigenous peoples in Papua. This research has been in-depth using descriptive qualitative methods in Papua with in-depth interviews, observation, and secondary data techniques. The results of the study indicate that the efforts of the Indonesian Christian Church in Papua in improving the economy of indigenous peoples are still minimal, both at the synod, classic and congregational levels. The congregation is currently experiencing quite face challenges internally and externally. They have struggled with the global Covid-19 pandemic situation. Many areas in Papua are still having problems with the internet network that makes communication even more difficult. To improve the economy of indigenous peoples, the congregation tries to implement a customary empowerment strategy is needed and strategic steps, namely an open heart-to-heart dialogue by all church components internally at various levels. A concrete problem mapping is required, with a scale of priorities and the ability to implement strategic indigenous economic development programs, and supported by appropriate assistance according to the regional or customary context. Along with that, the congregation must prepare competent human resources in their fields in the long-term economic development.