<![CDATA[This study was motivated by the importance of congregational worship practices as a strategy for developing students' character, particularly discipline and responsibility. MTs Sunan Giri consistently implements Duha and Dhuhr congregational prayers as part of its character education program. This study aimed to describe the implementation of congregational worship practices, analyze their impact on students' discipline and sense of responsibility, and identify the supporting and inhibiting factors affecting the program. A qualitative approach with a case study design was employed. The research participants consisted of the principal, an Islamic Education teacher, and students selected through purposive sampling. Data were collected through observation, semi-structured interviews, and documentation, and analyzed using an interactive analysis model involving data reduction, data display, and conclusion drawing. Data credibility was ensured through source and technique triangulation. The findings revealed that congregational worship practices effectively fostered students' discipline by encouraging punctuality, adherence to school regulations, and consistency in performing religious obligations. The program also contributed to improving students' responsibility toward both academic and religious duties. Its successful implementation was supported by the principal's commitment, teachers' exemplary behavior, adequate worship facilities, and a strong religious culture within the school. However, several obstacles were identified, including students' low self-awareness, lateness in participating in activities, and limited support from their families. Therefore, congregational worship practices can be considered an effective strategy for strengthening character education in Islamic junior secondary schools.]]>
