Anglican Christianity in Birmingham 1945 – 1975

Abstract

This thesis examines the state of religiosity in Britain during the period from 1945 – 1975 through a local case study of the Anglican Diocese of Birmingham, and upon the parish of St Mary’s Bearwood in particular. It will consider the nature of changes to Anglican Christianity during this period, examining previously untapped statistical records for Birmingham parishes during this period. These statistical records of church attendance will be considered alongside oral history which has been gathered from parishioners of one typical Birmingham parish during this period, St Mary’s Bearwood. Through the oral history gathered, this thesis will explore the changes that occurred during this period, considering the relative importance of young people and women during this period. Finally the overall changing relationship between local Anglican Christianity and the wider community will be explored and analysed. This dissertation is principally based upon the evidence provided by statistics based in Birmingham City Archives and oral history interviews which took place with parishioners of St Mary’s Bearwood during 2010.