Charismatic Religious Leaders: Conflict Resolution in Rejecting the Establishment of the Gereja in Semarang

The successful resolution of the conflict over the establishment of the Indonesian Baptist Church (GBI) in Tlogosari, Semarang City, involved an important role played by religious leaders. This research focuses on revealing how the attractiveness and influence of religious leaders (Islam and Christianity) in influencing people who are experiencing conflict. The mediation process used to resolve the conflict over the establishment of a place of worship relies heavily on the ability of religious leaders to ease tensions among their followers. At the same time, they also hold high authority within their respective religious communities. The purpose of this study is to compile significant insights regarding the importance of the charisma of religious figures in the conflict resolution process. This qualitative research utilizes data collection methods with interviews, observation, and literature study. The key informants in this research involved Kyai, Pastor, Chairman of the Religious Harmony Forum (FKUB) of Central Java Province. Field data were analyzed with a sociology of religion approach, using Max Weber's charisma theory. The results of this study are: (1) Religious leaders have a very important role in resolving conflicts, as they have charismatic characteristics and appeal that influence their congregations in ways that bring calm and ease tensions in society. (2) Cooperation between religious leaders, both from the same and different religions, is a very important component to provide support and examples to their congregations in promoting religious tolerance.