Meaning-Making Mechanisms on the Boundary between Religion and Sports

Abstract

Abstract What characterises religious meaning-making on the boundary between church and sports? Drawing on Sanne F. Akkerman and Arthur Bakker’s theory about boundary crossing, this article analyses religious meaning-making in sermons from Christian services in the context of international sports events. The article demonstrates that potential learning mechanisms at this boundary are more effective when not only seeking harmonious coordination and legitimisation but also bringing out differences and confrontation.