how come new england churches had the reach and resources to oversee public morality in the seventeenth century?
How come New England churches had the reach and resources to oversee public morality in the seventeenth century?
Answer:
In the seventeenth century, New England churches had significant reach and resources that allowed them to oversee public morality. There were several factors that contributed to this:
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Religious Authority: The Puritan religion played a central role in the daily lives of New England colonists. The church was considered the moral authority and had a strong influence on the community. The clergy held immense power and were seen as the religious leaders who guided the people in matters of faith and morality.
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Community Focus: New England colonies were tightly-knit communities with a strong sense of communal responsibility. The church acted as the center of the community and played a crucial role in shaping and maintaining public order and morality. Church attendance and participation were expected from all members of the community, and the church actively monitored the behavior of its members.
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Legal and Social Integration: In the seventeenth century, church and state were closely intertwined in New England colonies. Puritan laws were heavily influenced by religious principles, and the government enforced moral conduct based on these principles. The church and the government worked hand in hand to maintain social order and ensure adherence to Puritan values.
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Wealth and Resources: The early New England churches had access to considerable wealth and resources. Puritan congregations were often comprised of affluent and successful individuals who donated generously to the church. These donations allowed the churches to fund various initiatives focused on public morality, such as education, charity, and enforcing religious discipline.
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Community Support: The New England churches had the support and involvement of the local community. People were actively engaged in church activities and relied on the church for guidance in all aspects of life. This collective commitment and involvement strengthened the church’s ability to oversee public morality effectively.
Overall, the combination of religious authority, community focus, legal integration, wealth, and community support contributed to the reach and resources of New England churches in overseeing public morality during the seventeenth century.