MUSLIMS IN CATHOLIC EDUCATION: CHALLENGES AND COPING MECHANISMS

Abstract

This research investigates the challenges faced by Muslim teachers, academic staff, and students who experienced difficulties when having become involved in a Catholic high school, and uncovers the coping mechanisms they use to overcome the challenges they face due to differences in beliefs and habits. This research uses descriptive qualitative analysis with data collection tools in open questionnaires and in-depth interviews with educators, academic staff, and students regarding the challenges and coping mechanisms they used while involved in Catholic high schools in Indonesia. In this research it has been significantly demonstrated that educators, academic staff, and Muslim students involved in Catholic religious education units cannot avoid challenges, whether they arise from differences in perspective, worship habits, values, the involvement of close relatives, or even special policies established by the school for Muslims. However, each challenge faced by each educator, academic staff, and student has its their own coping mechanism, thus contributing positively to enriching tolerance between religious communities without damaging Islamic values and faith of Muslims in the professional realm.