ABSTRACT
This chapter explores the concept of Christian "calling" as a motivational factor with issues of migration, diasporas, and transnationalism. It utilizes biblical, historical, anthropological, and theological perspectives with the goal of proposing a more theologically informed anthropology of migration. Focusing on "calling" allows to explore the non-material motivations people may have for leaving, or may find in their new sociocultural context, that give a transcendent meaning to their current circumstances. The chapter also explores the topic by reviewing anthropology's history of research on immigration, diaspora communities, and transnationalism. It examines issues related to migrant adaptation, discussing some of the socio-cultural barriers immigrants face in their new contexts and how a sense of "calling" can help them overcome some of these obstacles. The chapter discusses the sociocultural context in which immigrants find themselves, focusing on how the social imaginaries of the host society can impact these new arrivals.
