Program Shalat Berjamaah dalam Pembentukan Karakter Islami Siswa Sekolah Menengah Atas

Joko Utomo (SMA Muhammadiyah 4 Kota Bengkulu)
Mindani Mindani (Universitas Islam Negeri Fatmawati Sukarno Bengkulu)

Indonesian Journal of Character Education Studies
Vol. 2 No. 1 (2025): Indonesian Journal of Character Education Studies, 2(1), 2025

Background; Character education supports Islamic values in schools, with congregational prayer viewed as a means to instill moral and spiritual principles. However, the implementation and impact of such programs on students’ character development remain underexplored. Objective: This study aims to examine the implementation of the congregational prayer program in strengthening the Islamic character of high school students, particularly focusing on the development of gratitude. Method: The research employed a qualitative approach with a phenomenological paradigm. It was conducted at SMA Muhammadiyah 4 Bengkulu in 2022. Data were collected through three primary techniques: (1) participant observation, (2) in-depth interviews, and (3) documentation. The analysis was carried out using the deduction, induction, and comparison methods. Result: The findings reveal that the implementation of Dhuha and Zuhur congregational prayers contributes significantly to shaping students' gratitude character. This development is evident in three dimensions: physical (behavioral discipline), psychological (emotional awareness and sincerity), and social (togetherness and mutual respect). Conclusion: The congregational prayer program effectively fosters Islamic character in students, particularly the value of gratitude. Routine practice and a supportive school environment play a critical role in reinforcing this character. Originality/Value: This study offers theoretical and empirical novelty in Islamic education by revealing the multidimensional internalization of gratitude through physical behavioral discipline, psychological sincerity and emotional awareness, and social solidarity and mutual respect. It examines the role of routine congregational Dhuha and Zuhur prayers at the secondary school level, an underexplored context from a phenomenological perspective. The findings enrich empirical evidence and provide practical guidance for educators and policymakers in developing habitual worship programs, supportive school environments, and sustainable spiritual character education.