Parish Dynamics: Social Issues and Research in Post-1945 Netherlands
Journal name: Archives De Sciences Sociales Des Religions
Original article title: Some remarks concerning the parish as a social problem and as a topic for social research in the Netherlands after 1945.
The journal “Archives of Social Sciences of Religions” publishes advanced research on religion in French, English, and Spanish. It studies the sociology of religions and religious traditions or theologies. It is supported by the INSHS-CNRS (“Institut des Sciences Humaines et Sociales”)
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Original source:
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P.h. Vrijhof
Archives De Sciences Sociales Des Religions:
(Founded in 1956 and published quarterly”)
Full text available for: Some remarks concerning the parish as a social problem and as a topic for social research in the Netherlands after 1945.
Year: 1959
Copyright (license): © Archives de sciences sociales des religions
Summary of article contents:
Introduction
In recent years, the concept of the parish has garnered increased attention in the Netherlands, particularly from churches and social researchers. The need for renewal in parish life has become critical due to the secularization of society post-World War II. The church is confronted with questions about its role in addressing the challenges of modern life while fulfilling its missionary tasks. Recognizing the limitations of traditional parish structures in reaching out to broader communities and social issues has led to discussions about the need for new approaches in parochial life.
The Need for Functional and Categorical Parishes
One important concept emerging from this discourse is the distinction between territorial and functional parishes. The Dutch Reformed Church has primarily organized around territorial parishes, which has resulted in a disconnect between active church members and the broader community. Many residents may not engage with church activities, highlighting a gap in pastoral care and outreach. There is a growing recognition of the need for functional parishes—those that transcend geographic boundaries to address the complexities of modern society. These functional parishes could play a crucial role in enhancing social responsibility, participating in community organization, and fostering meaningful interactions in urban settings.
Conclusion
The parish is not only a pivotal element of church life but also a significant social phenomenon and problem that warrants rigorous sociological exploration. By examining participation patterns, social relations, and the interactions between church members and outsiders, researchers can gain valuable insights into the parish's role in contemporary society. A broad research agenda focused on these sociological questions will be vital for understanding the effectiveness of various parish initiatives and for informing future church policy and community-building strategies. The evolution of the parish amidst modern challenges reveals both opportunities and obstacles in promoting a united Christian community.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What challenges do parishes face in modern society?
Parishes struggle to engage with the broader community, often serving only a small segment of church members while lacking connections to outsiders and various sectors of modern life, such as education and employment.
How does the government view the role of parishes?
The government sees parishes as potential community-building organizations that can foster social responsibility and participation, hence recommending subsidies for church building and integration of churches into urban planning.
What research questions are significant for parochial sociological studies?
Key questions include who participates in parish activities, the impact of church membership on social relations, and how neighborhood interactions relate to the concept of a Christian community.
Glossary definitions and references:
Theological and religious glossary list for “Parish Dynamics: Social Issues and Research in Post-1945 Netherlands”. The list explains important keywords that occur in this and other scholarly articles. It is also linked to the glossary for understanding that concept in the context of History, Religion, Philosophy, Theology, Sociology etc.
1) Roman (Roma):
[see source text or glossary: #Roman#]
2) Separation (Separateness, Separate, Separated):
The term 'separation' refers to the challenges faced by parishes in maintaining community life amidst a diverse society. The text indicates that parochial life might lead to separation rather than unity, as it can create boundaries that hinder broader social cohesion.
3) Existence:
The existence of a parish as a social structure is crucial for community building in urban areas. The text discusses how parishes provide a real Christian community, which is essential for its mission and social impact, emphasizing that their existence influences social relations.
4) Religion:
Religion plays a vital role in the formation of social groups and communities. The text addresses the significance of church and parochial life in fostering social responsibility and community engagement, thus highlighting the relationship between religion and societal issues.
5) Citizen:
The term 'citizen' refers to local residents who engage in parish activities. The text indicates that there is often a disconnect between citizens and the church, presenting a challenge for parishes in reaching out to local communities and addressing social responsibilities.
6) Feeling:
The concept of feeling relates to the emotional connection individuals have to their parish and community. The text discusses the lack of affection and responsibility among citizens, which local authorities aim to stimulate through community-building efforts, thereby fostering a sense of belonging.
7) Labour (Labor):
[see source text or glossary: #Labour#]