Christian Spirituality, Social Interaction, and U.S. National Parks: Experiencing God in Communal Activities

Abstract

Semi-structured interviews were used to evaluate the phenomenon of experiencing God by self-identifying Christians through social interactions during leisure or employment at two U.S. National Parks. Collectively, 36 participants were recruited from three sources and include: 1) worship service attendees, 2) employees implementing worship services, and 3) spiritual -retreat attendees. Findings revealed participants related the phenomenon to a “triangle effect” where the facets of nature, social interaction, and experiencing God were elevated individually and collectively when at the park. Participants shared an increased ability to experience a level of awe and authentically connect with individuals, nature, and God. They intentionally engaged in these activities and used NPS leisure settings as a medium to connect with God and transfer this formative relationship to their social interactions.