The Religious Dimensions of Shared Spaces: When and How Religion Matters in Space-Sharing Arrangements

The Religious Dimensions of Shared Spaces explores the role of religion in space sharing, examining how religious groups and organizations invest meaning in shared spaces and handle tensions that arise. It includes case studies of internal congregational groups, interfaith partnerships, and shared spaces in secular venues.

Format: Hardback
Length: 284 pages
Publication date: 15 March 2023
Publisher: Lexington Books

Space sharing by groups and organizations is a common practice in the United States, encompassing a wide range of arrangements, from commercial partnerships to government and private sector joint use agreements and the use of public facilities and commons. Drawing upon a diverse range of historical examples and contemporary cases, The Religious Dimensions of Shared Spaces offers a focused and systematic analysis of space sharing involving religious groups or organizations. While all space-sharing arrangements share certain similarities, the involvement of religious groups or organizations adds a unique dimension to the discussion. This book explores the ways in which religious groups or organizations invest meaning in the spaces they use and share, including "sacred space." It also examines when and why religious groups or organizations enter into space-sharing arrangements with other parties, whether religious or secular, and how they structure and maintain their arrangements, including handling tensions that may arise. The book also highlights cases where religion does not matter in space sharing, even when religious groups or organizations are involved. Case studies include internal congregational groups that negotiate the use of shared facilities, arrangements between congregations and external groups or organizations, multifaith partnerships, and shared spaces in secular venues.

Weight: 558g
Dimension: 238 x 157 x 22 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781793639349