Christianity as a Mainstream Culture
Christianity is one of the world’s oldest and most widely practiced religions. It is believed to have begun somewhere around the 1st century CE and since then, has touched nearly all corners of the globe. It is widely accepted that Christianity is more than a faith, but rather a culture and it is a source of identity and meaning for many people. The prestige and influence of Christianity has led some to argue that it is now an mainstream, overarching culture.
This argument is supported by the general prevalence of Christianity throughout society. All major world religions have their own symbolic objects, practices, holidays, and ceremonies, although Christianity’s are among the most prominent and commonly practiced globally. Christmas and Easter are practised on a massive scale, as are less exoteric holidays, such as Ash Wednesday and Good Friday. Across most of Europe, signs of Christianity can be seen on a daily basis, from places of worship and architecture to connotations of the symbols of the faith even in the secular space.
The influence of Christianity is also seen in language, with its terminology filtering into everyday speech. Words such as “sin”, “angel”, and “devil” are used in contexts beyond the strictly religious, and even among those who do not identify as being Christian. Christian theology also serves as a source for moral values, ethical theories, and other implications for what is considered “right” and “wrong”. This reaches far beyond those who practice the faith, and is a result of its pervading presence in many aspects of modern life.
Simultaneously, Christianity has been used to further the cause of countless social, political, and moral movements in the past. The Civil Rights Movement, the Suffragette Movement, and the push for LGBTQ+ rights are just a few of these movements that have been positively influenced by Christianity. This is one area in which it has been able to act as an overarching culture, rather than being guided by the beliefs of a singular subculture.
Christianity as a Subculture
Pervasive as it may be, the argument holds that Christianity is still part of a “subculture”, which contains subgroups of people who share certain beliefs and values. This differs from “mainstream” culture, which is shared by all members of a given society.
First and foremost, Christianity is, as a faith, a restrictive system. As such, it does not function simply as an overarching culture; rather, it is a construct that informs the values and beliefs of its members (Christian and non-Christian alike) and affects the way they interact with one another and the world around them.
Putting the faith component of Christianity aside, the most common areas where the religion is seen are within evangelical or charismatic subgroups, congregations, and prayer meetings. The prevalence of these is testament to Christianity’s ability to assert its authority even by limiting the scope of its power to specific subcultures, as opposed to dominating in a broader way.
Additionally, many individuals identify not simply as a “Christian”, but as belonging to a “denomination” or “sect” in order to sustain a distinct and unified system of belief. This further suggests the existence of a distinct and unified subculture, with clear-cut boundaries separating it from the rest of society.
Once within the confines of Christianity’s various subcultures, it is inevitable that certain activity and practices — that may not be acknowledged in single-faith cultures — are more readily accepted and/or practised. This is particularly true of certain denominations that cater to a very specific set of beliefs, often altered from what is mainstream, indicating the power this faith can have over its members.
Embracing Both Sides
Great debate has been had on the exact definition of Christianity; is it defined both as an overarching culture and as a socially cohesive subculture? The answer is both, or the need to work within that framework.
On one hand, Christianity is a “fit-all” culture because it is a source of identity and purpose for so many people. This could include both members of the faith and those who don’t identify as Christian but are still influenced by its teachings or doctrines.
On the other hand, it is also important to note that there is a distinctly separate culture within Christianity, made up of its subgroups, followers, and conventions. The power this faith holds over its members is undeniably influential even in the case of those of other faiths, and it is this capacity for control which those of the faith can harness to further the cause of the religion.
In essence, it is crucial to recognise both sides of the argument. Being mindful of this balance can result in a far more cohesive culture and one which can embrace others from within and outside the Christian realm.
The Integration of New Technologies
In addition to its influence as a culture and subculture, Christianity has also recently seen a massive surge in the incorporation of new technologies and digital media into its teachings. This has allowed a generation of people who might have been turned off by traditional denominations to become more engaged with the faith.
Online churches, such as those found on the internet and in virtual communities, are highly accessible and cater to modern life. They are often staffed by professional religious organisations who are able to provide a more hands-on and personal experience with members of the Christian faith.
These services are not only well-attended, but often receive positive reviews from their users. The integration of technology into religious practices provides those who are interested an efficient and non-threatening way to explore the faith and its teachings.
The Growing Role of Music
Even more than technology, music has become an increasingly popular outlet for Christian praise and worship. Contemporary Christian music (CCM) has become extremely visible in recent years, with top Christian artists such as Lauren Daigle and Hillsong UNITED appearing regularly on the Billboard Hot 100 and streaming services such as Spotify.
The growing opportunities for independent Christian artists has provided a much needed platform for them to reach a wide audience. The genres of CCM range anywhere from traditional gospel to EDM, hip hop, and metal, giving way to a more diverse Christian music culture.
As it is often sang during congregational services, it is easy to see how this music has become an integral part of Christian rituals and culture. The continuing appeal of Christian music has extended to include a wider audience, with many young people and non-believers enjoying it for its uplifting message and beats.
Consumerism, Evangelism, and Contentment
Christian culture has also seen an increasing focus on consumerism, with more and more paraphernalia being produced and marketed to appease to the faith. From t-shirts to bumper stickers and coffee mugs, Christian individuals are able to show off their religious pride and also serve as a way to evangelise.
At the same time, another development has seen a growing appreciation for minimalism in the Christian subculture. This emphasises principles such as simplicity and contentment and has seen a surge in popularity in recent times. Placing more importance on inner peace and gratification as opposed to material possessions has become increasingly important within the subculture, acting as a counter balance to the consumerism mentioned previously.
Finding Comfort in the Uncomfortable
One of the most intriguing aspects of Christian culture is the way in which it has allowed people to accept and embrace topics deemed “uncomfortable” within broader society. Many of the honest conversations about topics such as same-sex marriage, abortion, and suicide stem from within the Christian subculture.
Where wider society has rejected and condemned controversial topics, the Christian faith has provided platforms for individuals to come together in a safe space and discuss how their faith can best address these issues. This inclusive attitude has provided a more nuanced approach to religious discussion and acceptance.
It also acknowledges that there is no “right” or “wrong” opinion when it comes to faith and that respect, understanding, and an open-minded attitude are necessary in order to keep growing as a unified, conscientious culture.
Social Media and Global Reach
The technological advances of the modern age have made the reach of Christianity truly global, with churches and denominations having a powerful voice in both tradition and the digital world.
Thanks to the presence of social media, Christian individuals can now reach out to people all across the world, sharing the truth of their faith and how it has empowered them. This not only makes the message of Christianity more accessible to wider audiences but provides a platform for people of all faiths to come together and engage with one another.
The online sphere allows for a healthy dialogue between people from different cultures and religions, and ultimately serves as a brand of Christian culture which is diverse, tolerant, and all-encompassing.
Celebration and Unity
The importance of festive occasions within Christian culture is profound and encompasses both religious and secular celebrations. This includes occasions such as Easter, Christmas, Harvest, All Saints Day and much more.
Each of these occasions typically incorporates elements of both faith and culture, bringing together people of all backgrounds and persuasions in celebration. Through these activities, the Christian faith is able to manifest itself in a fun and non-Judgmental way, facilitating a vibrant and joyful atmosphere of unity.
It is the hope that these types of events will continue to bring together those of all backgrounds and allow the wider Christian culture to grow and sustain in the years to come.
