Philanthropy and the Funding of the Church of England, 1856-1914

The changing relationship between the church and its supporters is key to understanding changing religious and social attitudes in Victorian Britain. Flew charts the decline in Christian philanthropy and its connection to the growing secularization of society.

\n Format: Paperback / softback
\n Length: 272 pages
\n Publication date: 30 September 2020
\n Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd
\n

The evolving dynamics between the church and its followers hold immense significance in unraveling the shifting religious and societal attitudes prevalent in Victorian Britain. By delving into the records of the Anglican Church's home-missionary organizations,Flew meticulously traces the gradual decline in Christian philanthropy and its profound connection to the escalating secularization of society.

The church's involvement in charitable endeavors, once a prominent aspect of religious life, witnessed a significant decline during this period. This decline can be attributed to various factors, including the increasing influence of rationalism and secularism, which challenged the traditional religious values and practices. As the rationalist mindset gained traction, individuals began to prioritize material wealth and personal success over religious devotion and charitable giving.

Furthermore, the growth of industrialization and urbanization in Victorian Britain led to a shift in the social landscape. The rise of capitalism and the pursuit of profit overshadowed the moral and ethical concerns that had previously guided philanthropic efforts. The urbanization of society created a divide between the rich and the poor, with the former having the resources to support charitable causes while the latter struggled to meet their basic needs.

The decline in Christian philanthropy had far-reaching consequences for both the church and society as a whole. On the one hand, the church's inability to maintain its charitable presence weakened its influence and credibility in the eyes of the public. This loss of support could have contributed to the decline of religious belief and practice in Victorian Britain.

On the other hand, the absence of Christian philanthropy left a void in the social fabric. The growing gap between the rich and the poor exacerbated social inequality and poverty, leading to increased social unrest and political activism. The lack of support for education, healthcare, and other social services further exacerbated the challenges faced by the less fortunate members of society.

Despite the challenges faced by the church and its supporters, there were also efforts to address the decline in Christian philanthropy and promote a more secular and inclusive approach to charity. The rise of social welfare organizations, such as the Charity Organization Society and the Society for the Promotion of Christian Knowledge, aimed to provide assistance and support to those in need without relying solely on religious beliefs.

In conclusion, the changing relationship between the church and its supporters is a crucial factor in understanding the shifting religious and social attitudes in Victorian Britain. The decline in Christian philanthropy, driven by rationalism, secularization, and the growing divide between the rich and the poor, had far-reaching consequences for both the church and society. However, there were also efforts to address these challenges and promote a more secular and inclusive approach to charity. By examining these dynamics, we can gain a deeper understanding of the complex and multifaceted nature of religious and social change in Victorian Britain.

\n Weight: 430g\n
Dimension: 156 x 231 x 19 (mm)\n
ISBN-13: 9780367669065\n \n