The Pluralism Project at Harvard University

Dr. Mark W. MacWilliams

St. Lawrence University
Mapping the New Religious Landscape of the North Country (Upstate New York)

The North Country Pluralism Project (NCPP) is a three year study of the religious diversity present in St. Lawrence county in Northern New York. We plan to accomplish two goals in our research. First, we are canvassing the area in order to create a reference map of the religious life of St. Lawrence County. Second, since our research project is an important component of our first year program course, "Exploring American Spiritual Diversity," we are especially interested in studying the "alternatives to the consensus religions" that are found throughout the area. We plan to learn more about the new Buddhist, Muslim, and Hindu religious communities that have recently been established, as well as the Amish and Mohawk Indian communities that have long been an important part of our community.

Students studied nine religious groups during the Spring semester, 1999. They have created web pages on these communities in which they have incorporated their research. Currently, these pages are being edited for style and consistency. Our new college for this academic year (1999/2000) will begin phase two of the project during the Spring semester.

Dr. Mark MacWilliams' Home Page
North County Pluralism Project
St. Lawrence University Religious Studies Department