Weaving Borders, Resorting to Beliefs: The Role of Religion in the Migratory Trajectories of Intracontinental Migrants in Latin America

This article seeks to problematise the relationship between migration and religion by exploring the different uses that migrants make of religion in their migratory trajectories. Through the analysis of the religious and migratory trajectories of Peruvian migrants residing in the cities of Córdoba (Argentina) and Montevideo (Uruguay), evidence is presented of how religion is used in the migratory trajectory and life as migrants in the destination societies. The main findings highlight the relevance of religion in different aspects of the participants’ migratory experience. In the pre-migratory stage, three main uses of religion were identified: the intercession of transcendent beings in preparation for mobility, the religious inspiration to emigrate supported by migratory networks provided by religious communities, and the emotional refuge found in beliefs in the face of challenges before migration. During the reception process and daily life, migrants used religion to maintain a symbolic or concrete link with their societies of origin, as well as a part of a cultural legacy transmitted from their place of origin. Furthermore, religious beliefs were interpreted as part of a divine plan that gave meaning to migration experiences. Finally, religious practices also functioned as emotional support during the reception process, and participation in local religious communities served as a way to establish social and cultural connections in the host societies. The findings show it is vital to consider religion in studies and programmes involving migrants and to include migrants’ perspectives in research on religion.