Ritual Practice and Cultural Continuity in Urban Diaspora: Nias Catholics in Bandung, Indonesia

Hadrianus Tedjoworo (Department of Theology, Faculty of Philosophy, Parahyangan Catholic University, Bandung)
Stefanus Deliati Hulu (Department of Theology, Faculty of Philosophy, Parahyangan Catholic University, Bandung)

Journal of Contemporary Rituals and Traditions
Vol. 4 No. 1 (2026)

Purpose: This study examines how Nias Catholics in Bandung maintain their religious and cultural identity within a multicultural urban diaspora. It focuses on religious practices, community support, cultural preservation, and the need for inculturation in Church life. Methodology: The study employed a qualitative descriptive design supported by descriptive frequency counts derived from coded open-ended questionnaire responses. Data were collected through an online questionnaire completed by 32 respondents, one focus group discussion involving six participants, and in-depth interviews with six key informants. The data were analyzed thematically, while questionnaire responses were categorized and presented using frequencies and percentages. Findings: The findings show that religious practice remains an important foundation of identity. Twenty-nine respondents (90.6%) participated in church activities, and 20 respondents (62.5%) attended Sunday Mass. However, community support was uneven: 9 respondents (28.1%) reported receiving no support, while 10 respondents (31.3%) perceived no cooperation between KNKB and the local Church. In addition, 16 respondents (50.0%) reported the absence of culturally based faith formation. Respondents also emphasized Nias-language liturgy, stronger community formation, digital engagement, and intercultural dialogue as important strategies for sustaining identity. Implications: The findings highlight the need for stronger coordination between KNKB and the local Church, more inclusive community outreach, contextual catechesis, culturally grounded liturgy, and the use of digital media to support dispersed members. Intercultural dialogue is also important for maintaining cultural distinctiveness while encouraging openness and coexistence within Bandung’s multicultural environment. Originality and Value: This study offers an integrated empirical analysis of religious practice, community support, and inculturation among an internal Catholic diaspora in Indonesia. Its originality lies in showing that Nias religious and cultural identities are maintained simultaneously and continually negotiated through liturgical participation, community relationships, and culturally meaningful practices.