MAKNA SIMBOLIS ORNAMEN GORGA PADA BANGUNAN GEREJA ST. MIKAEL PANGURURAN DAN POTENSINYA DALAM PEMBELAJARAN ETNOKULTURAL

Abstract

This study examines the symbolic meanings of Batak Toba gorga ornaments in the architecture of St. Mikael Catholic Church and their potential in ethnocultural learning. Through semiotic and iconological approaches, the study reveals that gorga functions as a dynamic semiotic system capable of transforming its meanings within the context of theological inculturation in the Catholic Church. The findings indicate that various traditional gorga ornaments undergo profound reinterpretation, harmonizing Batak cultural values with Christian doctrines and producing an expression of faith that is authentically Batak as well as Catholic. This phenomenon demonstrates that gorga constitutes a living heritage that continuously finds new relevance and sustainability amidst social and cultural changes. Furthermore, this study highlights the significant potential of gorga as an interdisciplinary object of study and as a learning resource in ethnocultural education, which can be integrated into modern curricula to foster cultural awareness, identity formation, and character development among younger generations. The gorga ornaments in this church harmoniously connect cultural heritage, religious experience, and educational practice, making them a strategic medium for preserving Batak Toba cultural identity