<![CDATA[Congregational conflict is an unavoidable phenomenon in the life of local churches, including within the Karo Batak Protestant Church (GBKP). This article aims to examine pastoral leadership-based conflict management strategies as an effort to build congregational reconciliation, focusing on a case study at GBKP Runggun Perdagangan. This study employs a qualitative approach with a descriptive-analytical case study method, gathering data through literature review, participatory observation, and structured interviews with elders and deacons (majelis runggun), full-time ministers, and church members involved in conflict dynamics. The theoretical framework integrates Speed Leas' levels of conflict, the Thomas-Kilmann conflict mode instrument, Norman Shawchuck and Roger Heuser's pastoral leadership theory, John Paul Lederach's reconciliation theory, and biblical foundations from Matthew 18:15–17, Galatians 6:1–2, and the Jacob–Esau reconciliation narrative in Genesis 33. Findings indicate that the root causes of conflict at GBKP Runggun Perdagangan stem from structural-organizational issues, generational differences regarding custom (adat) and liturgy, and a lack of transparent pastoral communication. Pastoral leadership applying a collaborative approach, Christian value-based mediation, and relational pastoral care proves significant in de-escalating conflict and opening space for sustainable reconciliation. This article recommends strengthening the pastoral conflict management capacity of the majelis runggun as an integral part of nurturing a healthy, spiritually mature congregation.]]>
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