Understanding the role of faith communities in immigrant integration and adaptation: a case study of a Baptist church serving a Spanish-speaking congregation and an English-speaking congregation in contact

In the integration and adaptation of immigrants to the United States, the role of religious institutions is a key factor that is often overlooked. This research is a case study of a Baptist, Spanish-speaking congregation in contact with a Baptist, English-speaking congregation in a suburban church in a large, metropolitan area of the United States. Using participant observations, questionnaires, interviews, and focus groups over three months, I gathered data with the ultimate purpose of using that data to promote greater tolerance and unity within the church setting. The research investigated the attitudes and relationship between the two congregations and specific aspects of the local church that help the immigrants in their transition to the United States. Results revealed that the Baptist Church serves as a foundation for the Latino immigrants primarily through active opportunities for skills and leadership development, teachings of values to promote success, and refuge from the broader society to gradually build confidence