Christianity is a religion of origins in the Middle East, but after centuries it has become an integral component of European culture. Christianity is not unique to Europe, but the idea of Christian culture, which was born on the European continent, dating back to the 4th century, has made an impression on the lives of Europeans, many of which follow the religion still. Understanding the relationship between Christianity and Europe can go a long way in understanding the relationship between countries in Europe, as well as cultures that diverge from the mainstream.
Christianity has evolved in different ways in different countries, taking a life of its own in certain regions, such as the Mediterranean basin, while holding similar values and traditions in other parts of the world, like the Americas and the Middle East. In some cases, ancient cultures have even adapted Christianity as the base spiritual practice of their civilizations, such as the ancient Maya, who adopted Catholic devotion.
It is impossible to speak about the culture in Europe without mentioning the influence of Christianity. Christian elements such as the cross, statuary and art, for instance, remain pervasive in European cities and towns. Cathedrals, churches and other religious buildings also have made a mark in the face of the European terrain, some as old as 1500 years.
Today, Christianity is the most widely practiced religion in Europe. According to a 2019 Pew Research Center study, “Seventy-two percent of European adults identify with a Christian denomination. Most of the publics in Central, Eastern and Southern Europe are at least nominally members of the Catholic Church”.
Though Christianity is still the norm in much of Europe, different denominations and beliefs are becoming more diverse and accepted in many countries. Between 2010 and 2020, there has been a significant drop in the number of Christians in Europe, and a corresponding rise of those identifying as being of no religion, as well as those of other religions from outside the continent.
Many European countries, such as France and Italy, have seen a decline in church attendance and a growth of non-traditional ways of practicing the elements of their faith. This shift is due in part to the effects of immigration, cultural changes and globalization, which put an emphasis on the mainstream culture, making certain religious practices, even Christian ones, less visible.
These changes have made some Christians question their own beliefs, while the religious diversity of Europe attracts new Christians and non-Christians to the continent. To a large degree, these changes affect how Christianity and its culture are perceived by Europeans and how, in turn, it influences politics, social issues and even economic developments.
Christians in Europe and the Church Today
In nations with historic Christian identity, among the Roman Catholic, Protestant, and Eastern Orthodox churches, many European Christians have sought refuge in the vast expanses of European culture. The churches here, too, have tried to harmonize with the culture of their respective nations, even after governments have severed or scaled back ties to the church. This can be seen in doctrines, politics, and even language
Christian education and faith-centered institutions are still part of the shaping of hearts and minds of many European Christians from countries like Ireland, Italy, Poland and Portugal. The sense of national identity and a strong role in social, religious and political life, contribute to a shared impression of the importance of Christianity in Europe today.
The church remains a visible part of many people’s life in most Western European nations, with varying levels of religious freedom across the continent. Even with a decline in church attendance, many Roman Catholic and Protestant churches throughout Europe still host weekly services.
This is also a truth in Eastern European countries like Bulgaria, Romania, and Russia, where Orthodoxy is a more prominent part of daily life and national identity. Church presence and on-the-street ministry are still an entrenched part of the culture in these countries, as well as in Westerner nations.
Finally, due to immigration and relocation of people across Europe, the continent is quickly becoming a much more diverse place, with respect to its many cultures and religions, leading to a greater interconnectedness than ever before. As Christians from different countries come together, there is tremendous potential for spiritual growth, with sincere hope for upstarts-of-wisdom of embracing our differences.
Christianity and Europe’s Relationship with Politics and Social Issues
Christianity and its teachings have been used to define social and political values in Europe for centuries. The deeply-rooted Christian heritage has given the continent an understanding of what makes a “civilized” and “free” society. These values have been widely instrumentalized by political groups, often gaining immense popularity in a short amount of time.
Political partnerships, both between nations and within countries, have relied on the core values of Christianity. The Catholic Church has hundreds of centuries of political participation under its belt. Today, Christianity continues to be a powerful influence on the European political landscape and acts as a guarantor for public policies.
Christian values can be seen in the politics, policies, and laws of many countries in Europe, from the rights of the unborn to marriage. This is especially true in the countries where Christian values are at its most influential.
Notwithstanding new laws and regulations, Christian views remain influential in social issues, as believers and other activists have sought to defend the rights of women, the environment and the poor, even if these are seen as faith-based approaches to social justice.
Additionally, the LGBTQ + rights movement has been directly linked to Christian organizations in Europe and around the world, as they strive to remove second-class citizenship and discrimination. Still, many countries in Europe, influenced by religious traditions, remain particularly conservative in terms of social values and policies related to the LGBTQ + community.
Economic Factors Affecting Christianity
Economic factors are one of the most influential drivers of Christian collaboration and growth in Europe. Christianity, alongside other beliefs, ultimately affects a people’s lifestyle, values, and actions. This has been profoundly important amid the ongoing crisis in Europe, from the global financial crisis of 2008 to the current uncertainty over Brexit.
The level of resources available for charity and health organizations, which are often funded by religious organizations or authorities, is also a factor that has influenced the extent of Christian influence in certain parts of Europe.
The economic situation of the European Union has led to a significant rise in immigration, which has greatly influenced the economy and culture of European nations, with Christians at its epicenter. This influx of people often brings along their religious beliefs, which makes it hard to understand the scope with which Christianity plays a role in many aspects of European life.
That said, not all non-Christians in Europe are skeptical about the strength and influence of Christian culture in Europe. Many immigrants have been responding positively to the religious education and charitable organizations favoured by Christian organizations.
At the same time, the church has used its influence to provide food, education, and other support for newcomers, regardless of religion, as well as advocating for a better treatment of undocumented immigrants and refugees.
Christianity’s Future in Europe
Though Christianity might no longer be a dominant religion on the European continent in the future, the religion’s impact remains undeniable. It has been a major part of European history and culture and will continue to shape political, social, and economic aspects of the continent, perhaps in ways that are yet to be understood.
At the same time, there has been an increase of interfaith dialogue in Europe, as people of different religions, cultures and beliefs come together to form understanding, acceptance and even friendships. It is this type of coexistence that can help build a prosperous, peaceful and multicultural Europe for years to come.
The future of Christianity in Europe looks bright, despite the changing religious landscape. Christians in Europe continue to work together to build a future where all people of faith can live together in mutual understanding and embrace all of the diverse cultures and values of the people of Europe.
Conclusion
To summarize, Christianity is still and will remain for a long time, an important part of the European identity. While the faith is still widely practiced throughout the continent and observed by many Europeans in terms of traditions, education, and certain types of social justice, it is rapidly changing, especially due to economic factors, immigration, and a greater acceptance of different religious beliefs and cultures.
The positive effects of Christianity can continue to be seen in Europe as a whole, including its politics, social issues, and the economic well-being of the people who call it their home. How Christianity in all of its forms will play out in Europe, is the next question that awaits us now.
