Abstract:
Examines methodically the socio-economic and religious context of farm workers. Qualitative and quantitative data has been collected by conducting interviews. The analytical aim of the research is to show how experiences of work influence farm workers' way of perceiving socio-economic conditions and expressing religious feeling. The thesis also provides an insight into farm workers' view of churches. The findings are that farm workers live in a very specific and closed context. The context is also influenced by the understanding that the relationship between workers and the farmer is similar to that of a family. It has become clear that a relationship exists between work, religion and alienation. The prevailing tradition of paternalism on farms is one expression of alienation. This influences workers' rather uncritical perception of the exploitative conditions they live under. Paternalism is also an influencing factor for the existence of a strong religious life on farms. Faith provides a way of coping with the harsh realities in rural areas. An attempt has been made to provide ways of overcoming the crisis on farms by offering a specific and more relevant ministry to farm workers.
