2025 Undergraduate Research Showcase

Document Type

Student Presentation

Presentation Date

4-15-2025

Faculty Sponsor

Dr. Aiden VanderStouwe

Abstract

This ethnographic study examines the role of communication in shaping identity and fostering a sense of belonging within InterVarsity, a Christian campus ministry. By employing participant observations, field notes, and interviews, the research evaluates how faith-oriented discussions influence group dynamics, leadership structures, and the integration of new members. While linguistic studies typically focus on the structural and functional dimensions of language, they often overlook the profound personal and communal experiences that inform discourse in faith-based communities. Moreover, there is a notable scarcity of ethnographic research on religious communities, which creates gaps in our understanding of how religious language cultivates connection and a shared sense of identity. Drawing from my own experiences in these communities, this research aims to investigate how communication influences both individual and collective faith journeys. Initial findings suggest that communication styles vary significantly between small, private Bible study groups and larger public gatherings, with more intimate conversations occurring in smaller settings, while formal and structured dialogues dominate larger events. Additionally, the use of ritualized language and informal leadership frameworks appears to enhance a collective group identity. Through continued observations and interviews, this study aspires to uncover how these communication practices contribute to participants' spiritual development and community ties. The findings will provide important insights into the interplay between faith, language, and identity within student-led religious organizations, enriching broader discussions on social cohesion and religious expression in academic contexts.

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