Ethnographic Report: An Interview With FOCUS Missionaries

Ethnographic Report-Interview To gain a better understanding of religion practices and decisions young adults make, an interview was conducted of a family friend, Sam Carlson on January 7, 2023. Sam is twenty-four years old and a 2021 college graduate. Upon graduation Sam became a campus missionary with FOCUS Missionaries. FOCUS, or Fellowship of Catholic University Students, provides outreach to students on several college campus’ in the United States. Sam is Roman Catholic and has committed to work with FOCUS for two years upon graduation at Valparaiso University in Indiana. The interview concentrated on three main topics, with several detailed questions within each category. The three main topics included: How did you choose this

FOCUS provided Sam with training before the assignment, including topics like leadership, communication, and evangelism. Before relocating to Indiana, Sam talked about this decision with family, friends, and even his pastor. One of Sam’s new roles was to raise funds to help his new mission, this was a very difficult part of Sam’s new role, he said “each missionary is required to raise funds to support themselves as well as their role.” He discussed the financial aspects of being a missionary, comparing it to being a poor student for another two years, even though he is not attending classes. Sam mentioned “he was extremely grateful to his family and friends that donated funds to help me become closer to Jesus Christ and work with fellow students to strengthen their relationship with God.” Sam mentioned that he lives in a house with four other missionaries close to the Valparaiso campus and helps at the Newman Center. I also asked Sam questions about what he does as a missionary, he mentioned supporting students on campus, arranging prayer services, helping at the campus church, fun activities for students, and coordinating retreats during winter and summer breaks. He also mentioned that he has gained a greater appreciation for the Bible and scripture, he said he enjoys prayer service and learning about scriptures. Sam will be completing his two-year

He added “this was an incredible experience, and I would do it all over again if given the opportunity.” He seemed very passionate and excited about this program, it gave him an opportunity to reflect and decide what he wants to do next in his life. Sam mentioned that he may continue with FOCUS at another campus but has not yet decided. I also inquired about the skills he needs and what type of activities do the missionaries plan for the students. He mentioned that communication, organization, paying attention to details, common sense, and above all being respectful toward everyone are the most important skills. Sam also mentioned that he has been organizing a retreat trip this summer and has several students already signed up to go and help him. Sam stated the connections he has made with other missionaries and students are very important, “I get energy and enthusiasm from working with others.” I also asked if he ever considered becoming a priest, he said he had thought about it, but was not ready to take that step. I asked if God had ever talked to him and helped him make decisions, which he said, “God has not spoken to me directly, but I think he is helping guide my