Evangeliska Fosterlands-Stiftelsen (EFS) : evangelical revivalism and secularisation in Sweden 1856 - 1910

Gelfgren, Per Erik Stefan (2002). Evangeliska Fosterlands-Stiftelsen (EFS) : evangelical revivalism and secularisation in Sweden 1856 - 1910. University of Birmingham. M.Phil.

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Abstract

This dissertation examines the relation between revivalism and secularisation through the Swedish Evangelical-Lutheran organisation Evangeliska Fosterlands-Stiftelsen (EPS - approximately the Swedish Evangelical Mission Society) between 1856 and 1910.
Secularisation is a problematic expression, but here it is used to describe a changing perception of religion in terms of personalisation and individualisation of beliefs.
Christianity provided by the State church was compulsory and self-evident in early 19th century Sweden. In mid 19th century the homogeneous society began to fall apart; a transformation related to modernisation. Within the religious sphere, different revivals undermined the Church’s hegemony. EFS was founded in an attempt to safeguard the confessional content of the revival.
In the beginning of the examined period EFS’ antagonists were mainly non-confessional branches of Christianity. During the latest quarter of the century the situation changed under the influence of a more pluralistic society. EFS and the Church became alternatives among other ideologies and lifestyles, which had to be marketed and sold. On a national level EFS’ competitors now became different secularists, and EFS also started to form its own identity separated from the Church. Locally EFS adapted to the new market situation by downgrading the specific Lutheran content and instead emphasising the social aspect. This transformation can be described in terms of secularisation, denominationalisation, and individualisation of beliefs.

Type of Work:

Thesis (Masters by Research > M.Phil.)

Award Type:

Masters by Research > M.Phil.

Supervisor(s):