Understanding the Role of Religion and Religious Organizations in the Life and Work of Overseas Filipino Workers in an Islamic State

The study discusses the situation in an Islamic State in terms of policies on migrants and religious practices. It identifies different Christian religious organizations present within an Islamic State where members include OFWs and examines their current status, organizational operations, and religious practices. It discusses how religion and religious affiliations affect the life and work of OFWs, and describe the religious beliefs and practices of OFWs in a host country where religious freedom is restricted. The study employs qualitative research methods. A review of literature on policies in the Islamic State and interviews were used as methods of data collection. The study made use of a thematic analysis as method of data analysis. Participants are Christians who have worked or are currently working in the Islamic State as professionals, skilled, or domestic workers. The Islamic State in the study remains a conservative host country and such is reflective of its policies on migrants and religious practices. The said country, in principle, tolerates religious practices of migrants; however, many of its citizens remain intolerant of religions and religious practices other than Wahhabi Islam and its practices. Three dominant Christian organizations were found to be actively conducting religious activities, albeit clandestinely. Religion acts as: (1) a source of strength, (2) a form of amusement, (3) a form of motivation to become a better person, (4) an anesthetic that numbs the physical, emotional, and mental strains, (5) a source of networks, and (6) a method of knowing God for Christian OFWs in the said Islamic State.

Keywords: Christians, Islam, OFWs, Migrant Workers, Sociology of Religion.