Weary Yet Willing: Unveiling Faculty Perceptions of Christian and Community Service Expectations and Their Impact on Job Satisfaction

This research investigates Christian higher education faculty perceptions of Christian and community service expectations and the impacts on job satisfaction. Six participants completed interviews, discussion boards, and a journal entry with specific questions related to Christian and community service expectations and how those expectations affect job satisfaction. A phenomenological methodology using rich textual data generated six themes: benefits, service types, balance, motivations, expectations, and resources related to job satisfaction. Results indicate that faculty believe that involvement in Christian and community service can yield personal benefit, improving job satisfaction. However, the uncertainty related to the expectations of such service may create job stress, burnout, lack of balance, and decreased job satisfaction. Recommendations from the study include clarification of the expectations for Christian and community service for faculty and guidance on service opportunities as well as allocation of tangible resources.