There have been a few major religious movements in America where God’s influence has greatly affected individuals, families, churches, and the cultural and political environment. The first two are known as the Great Awakenings. The Great Awakening was a Protestant religious revival that swept across the United States from the late 18th century to the middle of the 19th century. Its importance lies in its profound and lasting impact on American religion, social life, and culture. Some of its key areas of importance are the changes in American religion. The Great Awakenings promoted a more personal form of Christianity that emphasized free will and individual salvation. It led to a massive increase in church membership, particularly for Methodist and Baptist churches, which used itinerant preachers and large-scale “camp meetings” to reach people, especially on the American frontier. One of these itinerant preachers was the founder of the orphanage that I grew up in, Bethesda Home for Boys. George Whitfield was an explosive evangelist who often spoke to thousands. The impact of these movements was a desire to improve society as a whole. Some of these improvements include abolitionism, temperance, women’s rights, and the growth of education and mission organizations.
I believe that a new Great Awakening is happening now in America. Through the influence of Charlie Kirk and his organization Turning Point USA, there has been has been a shaping and mobilization of young high school and college students in the US. Though his speaking and the use of social media on college campuses this movement has reached thousands of young people. His platform included “Prove Me Wrong” debates. This approach allowed him to frame conservative values as a counter-cultural rebellion against what he termed “woke indoctrination,” resonating with a generation that felt alienated by progressive politics. He is also a vibrant advocate for Christianity. Through his platform, Kirk openly urged young men to embrace Christianity and discussed Christian principles with diverse audiences. He used his “Prove Me Wrong” series to debate with atheists and others. Sadly, on September 10th he was the victim of an assassination. Following his death, many of his followers and Christian leaders have portrayed him as a martyr for the faith he championed, which has led to an increase in church attendance and conversions among young people.
Rick