Religious Practices as the Foundation of Cultural Identity and Well-Being Among the Polish Community in Misiones, Argentina.

Résumé

Religiousness is one of the key dimensions of the human experience, combining spiritual, social, and cultural elements. In the case of migrant communities, it plays a special role-it maintains the continuity of traditions, strengthens the sense of identity as well as promotes individual and community well-being. The purpose of this study is to analyze the role of religious practices in shaping and sustaining cultural identity and well-being among the Polish community living in the province of Misiones in Argentina. The study is qualitative in nature and is based on the analysis of the content of 28 in-depth individual interviews (n = 28) conducted among Catholics of Polish origin living in the province of Misiones, Argentina. On the basis of an interdisciplinary approach, a theoretical framework of the relationship between religiousness, identity, and well-being has been presented as well as the significance of Catholic tradition in the context of the Polish diaspora has been discussed. The conducted analyses confirm that religious practices, such as participation in parish life, celebration of holidays, and cultivation of language in prayer, are not only an expression of faith, but also an important tool for maintaining ties with Polish cultural heritage. Religion also proves to be a crucial factor in promoting integration, social support and the spiritual well-being of the community members.