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Religious Studies

Project Title
Changing Spirituality of Emerging Adults
Faculty Mentor Dr. Kathleen Garces-Foley
Faculty Department Philosophy, Theology and Religious Studies
Contact Information kathleen.garces-foley@marymount.edu
Appropriate Majors Humanities-related disciplines and the social sciences
Position Availability Fall, spring and summer (ongoing project)
Description This is a 3-year project to produce information, strategies, and concepts churches can use in dealing with challenges presented by contemporary young adults. It is well established that there has been a change in young adults since the 1970s; for example, fewer individuals in the 18-29 age group regularly attend religious services or identify with a particular denomination. Beneath these surface facts, church leaders recognize a host of other changes that characterize today’s young adults. For instance, they are averse to doctrinal truth, seeking instead a direct and authentic relationship with God. This study of young adults involves both survey and ethnographic research. There are a variety of research possibilities, such as creating Web surveys, holding focus groups, participant observation, Internet social networking, and in-depth study of young adult ministries.
Date Posted October 14, 2010
 
 
 
Project Title Comparing Multiethnic Churches Across Denominations
Faculty Mentor Dr. Kathleen Garces-Foley
Faculty Department Philosophy, Theology and Religious Studies
Contact Information kathleen.garces-foley@marymount.edu
Appropriate Majors Humanities-related disciplines and the social sciences
Position Availability Fall, spring, summer (ongoing)
Description This project examines the efforts of mainline Protestant, Roman Catholic and Evangelical efforts to create multiethnic churches. Only 93 percent of American churches are monoracial, but most would like to change that if they knew how. This study identifies strategies and models for diversifying congregations and compares how these three religious traditions approach racial diversity differently. It also examines the theological values religious leaders employ to justify outreach to targeted racial groups. Student researchers will do participant observation of local congregations and archival research. Other research opportunities include Web surveys, holding focus groups, and Web sleuthing.
Date Posted October 14, 2010