Permalink : http://hdl.handle.net/2115/54958

KEYWORDS : Yiguan Dao;Hong Kong;Organizational;Characteristics;Conversion;Experiences;Adherents

Through extensivefieldwork in aYiguan Dao BuddhaHall located in Hong Kong,this paper attempts to study the organizational characteristics of this Chinese religion and the conversion experiences ofits adherents. It first discusses thedevelopmental historyand features of this religion through textual analysis and interview. Drawing insights from Lofland and Stark’s model of conversion (1965), it attempts to studyhow conversion takes place in Yiguan Dao through analyzing the narratives of twelve Yiguan Dao practitioners in Hong Kong. It suggests a five-stage model to explain their conversion to Yiguan Dao that consists of (1) predisposing personal conditions;(2) developing social ties with Dao practitioners;(3) receiving Dao;(4)cultivating Dao and (5)promoting Dao. In brief,social networksplayasignificant role in the conversion process as it often takes places within family, among friends, colleagues, and neighbors.