Religion spirituality and the formation of youth identities the case of the Assemblies of God in East London

Abstract

The present study considers the role of religion and spirituality on the formation of youth identities by focusing on the Pentecostal/Charismatic churches, particularly the Assemblies of God, at East London, in the Eastern Cape. It looks at the conceptualisation of religion, particularly Christianity, by young ‘born-again’ Christians; explores the role of spirituality in the construction of youth identities; and examines the impact of both religion and spirituality in the decision-making, life style, and roles of young people in the society. These factors are explored within the South African socio-religious context, where the larger population of the country claims to be Christian. The study used Nicholas Bhekinkosi Bhengu, with his ‘Back to God Crusade’ as a point of reference to the conceptualisation of spirituality, and identity formation in the Assemblies of God.