About the project

The focus of this study is volunteerism in The Church of Norway. What characterize this kind of volunteerism, and what are the volunteer experiences being connected to this work? As the study is carried out in two different regions of Norway, the findings reveal that cultural and ecclesiological background is of strong influence.

The aims of the study:

• A deeper understanding of volunteerism in The Church of Norway.
• A better understanding of the complexity of volunteerism in general, building on existing theory and exemplified in this study
• A diaconal focus on the positive – or demanding – outcome for volunteers.The volunteer activities in this study are not delimited to diaconal work. Is it still possible to recognize a diaconal string in the churches’ practice of volunteering? Volunteer experiences may have diaconal relevance. Could this diaconal aspect be further strengthened?

The study has a qualitative design, including an ethnographic inspired fieldwork, participating observation, field notes and interviews. It is carried out in two different parts of Norway, both places studying three congregations connected together by being in the same deanery.

Thematic analysis is used to systematize the data material: 50 interviews and approximately 50 pages of closely written field notes.

Background

Master in diakonia

Research group

CODE, empirical research group (MF), Research school Religion, Values and Society (RVS)