Taking the International Seriously: The Importance of the “International” for International Churches in Utrecht

Anna Koperberg '25

Religious Studies, Political Science

International churches are changing the religious landscape within the Netherlands. Whilst religiosity is decreasing, membership of the international church is growing. Research thus far has neglected to focus on the "international" of the international church. This thesis thus introduces a phenomenology of the "international" and answers the research question of how the imagination of the international informs church identity, community formation, and the personal experience of attendants within international churches in Utrecht.

What drew you to explore this topic?

Through studying a phenomenon that occurs close to home, I was able to base a substantial part of the research on empirical materials and interviews. Through my thesis, I was thus able to expand how I understood academic research - and make the work truly my own. 

What’s the next chapter in your journey post-graduation?

After handing in my thesis, I packed my bags and stepped on the bike - headed for Rome. Seeing friends along the way, the journey will last until the middle of October, spanning just over 2000 kilometers.

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