BERTUKAR KURSI, BERTUKAR HATI: TRANSFORMASI PELAYANAN PASTORAL MELALUI TEKNIK ROLE REVERSAL

Abstract

Communication breakdown in pastoral counseling is often caused by the client's self-defense
mechanisms and rigid egocentrism, where individuals become trapped in a victim mindset and fail to
perceive the humanity of others. This study aims to explore the effectiveness of Jacob L. Moreno’s Role
Reversal technique as an instrument for spiritual and emotional transformation in pastoral care.
Utilizing a qualitative-descriptive approach with a theological literature review, the findings indicate
that this technique is not merely a role-play but a means of kenosis (self-empty) that emulates Christ's
incarnational model. Cognitively, the technique breaks biases and prejudices; emotionally, it evokes
compassion through affective resonance; and spiritually, it facilitates forgiveness by re-humanizing
others as Imago Dei. In conclusion, "exchanging chairs" enables a profound metanoia (renewal of the
mind), transforming relational conflicts into a space of transformative reconciliation under the
guidance of the Holy Spirit.