In the 19th century, new religious movements arose, mostly of Christian origin. By the 20th century, translated texts from Islamic and Buddhist religions were available to a broader public. These new movements were often led by charismatic leaders such as L. Ron Hubbard. We'll be learning about the origins of these religious movements and their practices in this article.
Contemporary society and religions
In contemporary society, religion is becoming increasingly secular and diluted. The rise of secularization is predicted to undermine the plausibility of religious belief, and this is why it is important to have shared belief systems. Secular societies allow public institutions to perform the same social functions that religious ones but without the "irrational” restrictions that go with religion.
Because of the diversity of religious practices, religion can be complex. There are four dimensions that all religions share in common. They include belief and ritual as well as unique forms or community.
Alternative religious movements
Alternative religious movements are an emerging trend, with modern origins but a small place in society. They are also known by the names alternative religions or spirituality. The purpose of these movements is to foster a deeper understanding of human nature, and to promote spiritual growth. Some of these movements are founded on ancient beliefs while some others have modern origins.
California was an important center of alternative religious movements in the past. Hare Krishna groups performed in airports, and they danced down Telegraph Avenue. Buddhist teachers attracted many new fans, Sufi choruses sang at concerts and weekly radio programs introduced spiritual leaders to the general public. Some scholars tried to suppress the new religious movements despite their popularity.
Their origins
The 20th century saw new religious movements emerge. These new religious movements often take a different approach to traditional religious practices or place emphasis on the human potential. The leaders and members of the new religions have certain characteristics. They also share basic organizational imperatives. However, practices and theology in new religious movements are often very different.
From just a handful of scholars studying new religious movements in the 1960s, to several hundred scholars by the start of the twenty-first century, the field has seen rapid growth. Mass media was instrumental in the rise of new religions during the 20th century. These new media made it possible to communicate religious ideas worldwide and attracted financial support.
Their practices
The Archives at the Graduate Theological Union house collections of materials related to New Religious Movements (NRMs). The collection includes materials from over 900 groups, including quasi-religious and alternative religious movements, witchcraft, new age communes, and metaphysical movements. The collections contain correspondence, position papers, and promotional materials.
Different meanings can be given to the phrase "new religion." NRMs can be described as a new way to think by some, or they can be used to refer to all religions. Either way, NRMs are characterized by a charismatic leader. NRMs also often have a base of converts.
Their impact on Catholicism
Modernist thinking began to have a clear impact on society after the Second World War. The Faith saw a dramatic decline across much of Europe. Many reports reported that churches were in decline and whole generations had abandoned Catholic practices. Many American tourists who visited Europe during this period returned to America with images of empty churches, barren fields, and decrepit churches. These ideas had a less profound impact in their home country, but they were still influential.
The Council of Basel, convened by Pope Martin V shortly before his death in 1431, dealt with issues ranging from the church's reform to national pressures. It also considered the definition of God.