Leading the Way to Heaven: Pastoral Care and Salvation in the Carolingian Period

The grass-roots approach in the study of religion in the Carolingian period provides a better understanding of how it encompassed all spheres of daily life. The volume explores how pastoral care took shape at the local levels of society and how the ideal of leading everybody to salvation was a central element of Carolingian culture. It also shows how well-educated local priests knew how to baptize, preach, and advise on health, legal procedure, and the future, providing a more detailed and nuanced view of their role.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 274 pages
Publication date: 01 April 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

The grass-roots approach offers a profound understanding of religion, revealing its pervasive influence in every aspect of daily life. By delving into the formation of pastoral care at the local levels of society, this volume sheds light on the central goal of leading all individuals to salvation, which played a pivotal role in Carolingian culture. This resource is invaluable for students and scholars interested in exploring the ecclesiastical history of Europe during the Carolingian period.

The book's diverse sections on the roles of priests provide a rich and detailed perspective. They showcase that well-educated local priests were not only skilled in baptizing and preaching but also possessed expertise in various domains, including health, legal procedures, and even foresight. This multifaceted view of the priest's role adds depth and nuance to our understanding of this period.

Moreover, the book's attention to the local context and grassroots movements adds a unique dimension to the study of religion. It emphasizes the importance of grassroots initiatives and community involvement in shaping religious practices and beliefs. This approach challenges the traditional top-down approach and provides a more inclusive and holistic understanding of religion's development.

In conclusion, the grass-roots approach in this volume offers a valuable insight into the complex and multifaceted world of religion during the Carolingian period. By exploring the local levels of society, the book provides a deeper understanding of the central goal of salvation, the roles of priests, and the impact of grassroots movements on religious practices. This resource is essential for students, scholars, and anyone interested in the ecclesiastical history of Europe during this transformative period.

Weight: 450g
Dimension: 157 x 233 x 27 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781138556324