Belief Systems in Faith-Based Human Service Programs

Using a grounded theory design and methods, 65 key informants in 15 faith-based organizations having promising programs in four urban areas were interviewed. Respondents were asked what makes their direct service programs faith-based. A story emerges, motivated by mission-driven visions tied to forc...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Journal of religion & spirituality in social work 2006-01, Vol.25 (3-4), p.261-286
Main Authors: Netting, F. Ellen, O'connor, Mary Katherine, Yancey, Gaynor
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Belief systems
faith-based organizations
Grounded theory
Human Services
Organizational Culture
religion
Religious Beliefs
Religious Cultural Groups
Religious groups
social services
Social services agencies
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Summary:Using a grounded theory design and methods, 65 key informants in 15 faith-based organizations having promising programs in four urban areas were interviewed. Respondents were asked what makes their direct service programs faith-based. A story emerges, motivated by mission-driven visions tied to forces beyond local programs and steeped in deep traditions. A major implication of the findings is that in teaching people about the various practices of diverse religious groups, we are only giving them the visible elements. While the expressed values of acts and faith are integral in the faith-based discussion, they do not tell the full story. The deep drivers of human behavior and practice are found in the specific beliefs and interpretations of individuals who are involved either as leaders or participants in faith-based organizations. For many of these individuals in faith-based organizations, mission and accountability to God trumps secular or professional expectations.
ISSN:1542-6432
1542-6440
DOI:10.1300/J377v25n03_15