Chapter 13: Heading for the Multifaith Workplace

Religious expression in the workplace has generally become muted in modern American culture (Ewest, 2015), and the Christian–dominated education system that once existed has largely transitioned to a secular model (Mixon, Lyon, … Beaty, 2004; Thielen, 2011). Most university graduates will encounter religious diversity in the workplace, except in the most religiously homogeneous areas of America. These workplaces may have pluralistic or even secular cultures, including people who believe differently (Christians from other denominations, cultures, and religious traditions) or not at all (Miller … Ewest, 2015). While faith provides meaning and inner nourishment for Christians in the workplace, few receive specific preparation for living their faith in a religiously diverse or secular workplace, whether they have attended a Christian or nonsectarian university or college. How can Christians express their beliefs in appropriate ways to be a positive influence within these workplaces? How do Christians prepare for a spiritually and religiously diverse American workplace when many of the avenues through which Christians are educated or socialized do not equip them for secular or multifaith work environments?