The 19th century saw the rise of new religious movements, mainly of Christian origin. In the 20th century, a wider public could access translated texts from Islamic or Buddhist religions. These new movements were often led charismatic leaders like L. Ron Hubbard. We'll be learning about the origins of these religious movements and their practices in this article.
Contemporary religions
In contemporary society, religion is becoming increasingly secular and diluted. The rise in secularization is expected to reduce the plausibility for religious belief. It is therefore important to have common belief systems. The public functions of secular societies are the same as those performed by religious institutions, but without the "irrational restrictions" that come with religion.
The study of religion is complex, as the types of religious practices vary widely. There are four main dimensions that are common across all religions. They include belief, ritual, spiritual experience, and unique forms of community.
Alternative religious movements
Alternative religious movements are a new trend with modern origins, but occupy a marginal 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 appeared in airports and danced down Telegraph Avenue. Buddhist teachers attracted many new followers, Sufi choirs sang at concerts, and weekly radio programs introduced new spiritual leaders to the public. These new religious movements were growing in popularity but some scholars wanted to suppress them.
Their origins
New religious movements emerged in the twentieth century. These movements are often distinguished by a fresh, alternative approach to traditional religious practice or an emphasis on the human capacity. Most of the first generations of new religions share some leadership traits, basic organizational imperatives, and membership profiles. Theology and practices of new religious movements can differ significantly from one another.
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. The advent of mass media has accompanied the growth of new religions over the past century. These new mediums made it possible for religions to reach a global audience and attract financial support.
Their practices
The Graduate Theological Union Archives contain materials related the New Religious Movements (NRMs) and are housed in the Archives. Materials from more than 900 groups are included in the collection, including new age communes, quasi-religious and alternate religious movements as well as witchcraft and metaphysical movement. The collections include correspondence and position papers as well promotional materials.
There are many meanings to the term "new faith" for different people. Some believe that NRMs are a new way of thinking, while others use it to describe religions in general. Either way, NRMs are characterized by a charismatic leader. NRMs can also have converts.
Their impact was on Catholicism
Modernist thinking made a huge impact after the Second World War. In large parts of Europe, the Faith experienced a huge decline. Reports indicated that many churches fell into disrepair, and whole families were abandoning Catholic faith practices. Many Americans returned from Europe in this time with images of barren fields and empty churches. They had less impact on their country but these ideas still had an influence.
Pope Martin V convened The Council of Basel just before his death in 1431 to discuss issues such as reforming the church and national pressures. It also addressed the question of God's definition.