Congressman in bible study groups: Perceived changes in the life experiences of selected legislators

• Main Authors: Cheng, Joanna, Dy, Jerwin, Sy, Annabelle K.
• Format: text
• Language: English
• Published: Animo Repository 1996
• Subjects: Legislators > Philippines; Bible > Study; Social groups; Life change events; Experience; Self-perception; Congressmen
• Online Access: https://animorepository.dlsu.edu.ph/etd_bachelors/16329
• Institution: De La Salle University

The purpose of this study is to briefly describe the background of two bible study groups: their history, goals, functions and membership composition. More importantly, this study seeks to determine the significant changes that occur in the lives of six Filipino congressmen as participants in the two bible study groups. Such perceived changes are analyzed in terms of the members' self-concept, political involvement, and interpersonal relationships. A descriptive case study is utilized to gather these data with the use of in-depth interviews and limited participant observation as data-gathering techniques. This study covers two bible study groups initiated by Campus Crusade for Christ, namely: Annabel's Bible Study Group and the Batasan Bible Study Group. The purposively-selected participants are six public officials who are currently members of one or both of the bible study groups. The major findings of this study are as follows: First, in terms of their self perception, all of them recognize that the insights they have gained from their participation in the bible study groups complemented or enhanced their principles in life. They began to perceive their political position as God-given, believing that they are the tools to help the people. Second, it was found that all of the respondents already had sentiments for the poor even prior to their bible study group involvement. This is due to the fact that all of them saw the plight of the poor. Moreover, they themselves had a first-hand experience of how it is to be poor. Thus, their bible study group involvement complemented or renewed their advocacy for the poor. Finally, majority of the respondents' interpersonal relationships were enhanced in such a way that the lines of communication with their family, fellow officials, staff and constituents were strengthened.