The Social Gospel Movement
Social movementAbout
The Social Gospel Movement was a prominent religious social reform movement in the United States from about 1870 to 1920. It emphasized applying Christian principles to address social issues such as poverty, inequality, and injustice. Advocates sought to transform society by addressing systemic problems through activism and reform, focusing on labor reforms like ending child labor and improving working conditions. The movement was particularly influential among liberal Protestant ministers, including Washington Gladden and Lyman Abbott. Key figures like Walter Rauschenbusch played a significant role in shaping the movement's ideals. The Social Gospel encouraged Christians to engage in social issues, live out their faith through compassionate actions, and support ethical practices. It balanced personal transformation with societal change, emphasizing biblical themes of justice and compassion. The movement's impact was felt in the rise of organized labor and New Deal legislation during the 1930s, leaving a lasting legacy in American social justice initiatives.
