Surprising numbers of undergraduates at English universities still call themselves Christian. They find this to be central to their identity, a key driver in their attitudes, volunteering, approach to their studies, and personal spiritual practices. But many of them don't go to church very often, and their social attitudes are often far closer to those of mainstream society than those of conservative Christian leaders, Catholic or Protestant. Through analysing over 4,500 responses to a questionnaire and over 75 in-depth interviews, this book examines student Christians in their own words. Why is it that they hold a generally positive view of universities as a place for people of faith? What do they consider the key sources of religious authority? Is their faith capable of enduring, or it is more likely to be a passing phase? Do women and men see their faith differently?
The results make fascinating reading for anyone interested in the survival and continued evolution of religion in the contemporary world, as well as anyone working with Christian students, in churches, chaplaincies and other organisation, and policy-makers who need to understand the significance of religion for volunteering, community values and social cohesion.