Wealth and discipleship: Exploring the role of Filipino Christian business leaders during the pandemic and beyond

Date of Publication

10-2024

Document Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

Doctor of Philosophy in Applied Theology

Subject Categories

Religion

College

College of Liberal Arts

Department/Unit

Theology and Religious Education

Thesis Advisor

Auria U. Arabit

Defense Panel Chair

Lysander P. Rivera

Defense Panel Member

Carolina C. Dionco
Fides A. Del Castillo
Dalmacito A. Cordero Jr
Tomas S. Tiu

Abstract (English)

The COVID-19 pandemic has affected the world in different areas, particularly the widening gap between the wealthy and the poor. With this, the research explored the theme of discipleship of the wealthy in the Gospel of Luke, with a specific focus on the role of Filipino Christian business leaders during the COVID-19 pandemic and beyond. The study recognizes the importance of evangelization in the marketplace and seeks to understand how these leaders view their vocation in the business world, as well as how they incorporate their Christian faith into their leadership practices and decision-making.

As guide in the study’s theological reflection, the Phenomenological Concept of Experience Framework is used as a theological framework. This approach allowed the study to explore the lived experiences of Filipino Christian business leaders during the COVID-19 pandemic and understand how their faith informs their decision-making and leadership practices. The researcher’s focus on exploring the phenomenological effects of the pandemic on Filipino Business Leaders was centered on understanding the role of these leaders during this time of crisis and how it affected their employees’ livelihood. The study examined the perspectives of both business leaders and employees on the role of bosses in ensuring the survival and sustainability of their respective organizations during the pandemic.

This study explored a variety of organizations that represent businesspeople and professionals in the Philippines, including the Brotherhood of Christian Businessmen and Professionals (BCBP), Rotary Club, Lion’s Club, Philippine Business for Social Progress (PBSP), Women Business Council Philippines (WBCP), as well as young business leaders from the Philippine Young Entrepreneurs Association (PYEA) and Christ’s Young Professionals (CYP). By focusing on these groups, the research gathered a broad spectrum of perspectives and experiences of FCBLs during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The study highlighted how these leaders actively integrate their Christian faith into their roles within the marketplace. It showed the various ways they leverage their positions of influence not only to foster business growth but also to evangelize and serve others within their communities. Additionally, the research contributed to a more nuanced understanding of spirituality in the workplace. Through the in-depth interviews, the concept of Filipino spiritreneurship emerged, reflecting how Filipino entrepreneurs intertwine their faith and entrepreneurial spirit to inspire positive change in the workplace and in society.

Key Words: Business Leaders, COVID-19 pandemic, Discipleship, Filipino Spiritreneurship, Luke, Phenomenological Design, Wealth

Abstract Format

html

Abstract (Filipino)

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Abstract Format

html

Language

English

Format

Electronic

Keywords

Businesspeople; COVID-19 Pandemic, 2020-2023—Religious aspects—Christianity; Christian life; Wealth—Religious aspects—Christianity

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Embargo Period

3-16-2025

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