@article{ART003215581},
author={Kang, Hyeonah},
title={Bridging Cultures through Worship: Language Policy, Identity, and the Role of the Church in Times of Crisis},
journal={The Sociolinguistic Journal of Korea},
issn={1226-4822},
year={2025},
volume={33},
number={2},
pages={1-26}
TY - JOUR
AU - Kang, Hyeonah
TI - Bridging Cultures through Worship: Language Policy, Identity, and the Role of the Church in Times of Crisis
JO - The Sociolinguistic Journal of Korea
PY - 2025
VL - 33
IS - 2
PB - The Sociolinguistic Society Of Korea
SP - 1
EP - 26
SN - 1226-4822
AB - This study explores a church leader’s perceptions of language policy goals and cultural practices within a Korean-American church, as well as the changes prompted by the COVID-19 pandemic. Drawing on theories of ethnic churches, language planning and policy, and communicative frameworks of organizational identity, the study employs critical discourse analysis and thematic analysis. Data were collected through multiple qualitative methods, including participant observation of English and Korean worship services, two in-depth interviews, audio recordings, and artifact documentation. The findings highlight the dual role of first language and cultural practices in affirming both ethnic identity and Christian faith among Korean congregants. Furthermore, this research illuminates the integrative role of the church—both institutionally and socially—during a global crisis. The church leader’s motto, “Stay well and stay connected,” was expressed through linguistic and cultural adaptations that promoted a sense of belonging and positive identity amidst uncertainty.
KW - Korean American church;language planning and policy;ethnic identity;organizational identity;pandemic response
DO -
UR -
ER -
Kang, Hyeonah. (2025). Bridging Cultures through Worship: Language Policy, Identity, and the Role of the Church in Times of Crisis. The Sociolinguistic Journal of Korea, 33(2), 1-26.
Kang, Hyeonah. 2025, "Bridging Cultures through Worship: Language Policy, Identity, and the Role of the Church in Times of Crisis", The Sociolinguistic Journal of Korea, vol.33, no.2 pp.1-26.
Kang, Hyeonah "Bridging Cultures through Worship: Language Policy, Identity, and the Role of the Church in Times of Crisis" The Sociolinguistic Journal of Korea 33.2 pp.1-26 (2025) : 1.
Kang, Hyeonah. Bridging Cultures through Worship: Language Policy, Identity, and the Role of the Church in Times of Crisis. 2025; 33(2), 1-26.
Kang, Hyeonah. "Bridging Cultures through Worship: Language Policy, Identity, and the Role of the Church in Times of Crisis" The Sociolinguistic Journal of Korea 33, no.2 (2025) : 1-26.
Kang, Hyeonah. Bridging Cultures through Worship: Language Policy, Identity, and the Role of the Church in Times of Crisis. The Sociolinguistic Journal of Korea, 33(2), 1-26.
Kang, Hyeonah. Bridging Cultures through Worship: Language Policy, Identity, and the Role of the Church in Times of Crisis. The Sociolinguistic Journal of Korea. 2025; 33(2) 1-26.
Kang, Hyeonah. Bridging Cultures through Worship: Language Policy, Identity, and the Role of the Church in Times of Crisis. 2025; 33(2), 1-26.
Kang, Hyeonah. "Bridging Cultures through Worship: Language Policy, Identity, and the Role of the Church in Times of Crisis" The Sociolinguistic Journal of Korea 33, no.2 (2025) : 1-26.
