In today’s rapidly changing world, Gen Z and Millennials from diverse religious backgrounds are grappling with a shared challenge: secularism.
By Dr. Tim Orr
In today’s rapidly changing world, Gen Z and Millennials from diverse religious backgrounds are grappling with a shared challenge: secularism. While their theological beliefs, cultural contexts, and geographical locations may differ, young American Evangelicals and British Shia Muslims are both trying to maintain their religious identities in societies that are becoming increasingly secular. So, what does this look like for them, and how are they adapting? Let’s dive in and explore.
Historical and Cultural Contexts
American Evangelicals: A Rich, Yet Diverse, History
American Evangelicalism is a movement with deep historical roots, tracing back to the Great Awakenings of the 18th and 19th centuries. These revivals emphasized personal conversion, a literal interpretation of the Bible, and the importance of spreading the Gospel. Fast forward to today, Evangelicals significantly influence American politics and culture, especially through movements like the Moral Majority and the Christian Coalition, which were pivotal in promoting conservative Christian values in the 1980s and 1990s (Marsden, 2006). Around 25% of Americans identify as Evangelical Protestants (Pew Research Center, 2015).
But it’s important to remember that not all Evangelicals are the same. The community is diverse, with different groups experiencing and responding to secularism in various ways. White Evangelicals, for instance, have often been linked with political conservatism and tend to see secularism as a direct threat to their values. Leaders like Albert Mohler, President of the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, argue that secularism is pushing Christianity out of the public square, leading white Evangelicals to become more politically active on issues like same-sex marriage and abortion (Mohler, 2015).
On the other hand, Evangelicals of color—particularly African American, Latino, and Asian American Evangelicals—might have different perspectives. These groups often blend their faith with social justice concerns, drawing from their unique historical experiences. African American Evangelicals, for example, have long focused on civil rights and social justice, rooted in the legacy of the Black Church (Smith & Emerson, 2000). This diversity within Evangelicalism highlights how different subgroups are navigating the challenges of secularism in their ways.
British Shia Muslims: A Minority Within a Minority
British Shia Muslims also face the challenge of maintaining their religious identity, but their situation is unique. As a minority within the larger Muslim community in the UK (which is predominantly Sunni), Shia Muslims are a double minority. Their roots in the UK often trace back to post-World War II migration from South Asia, East Africa, and the Middle East. Significant historical events, like the Iranian Revolution of 1979, also brought political refugees to the UK and helped establish a close-knit Shia community (Ansari, 2002).
Navigating this double minority status means that British Shia Muslims often take a pragmatic approach to secularism. Instead of engaging extensively in national politics, they focus on preserving their religious identity while integrating into broader British society. Leaders like Sayed Fadhil Milani advocate for coexistence and dialogue, encouraging Shia Muslims to participate in interfaith activities and community service to show that Islamic values align with British secular norms (Milani, 2014).
Moreover, communal rituals like the commemoration of Ashura play a crucial role in maintaining Shia identity in a secular environment. These rituals strengthen communal bonds and connect younger Shia Muslims with their cultural and religious heritage, even as they navigate the complexities of modern British life (Rizvi, 2013).
Theological Foundations and Ritual Practice
American Evangelicals: Adapting or Holding Firm?
Regarding theology, American Evangelicals often find themselves at a crossroads. Their faith is grounded in the principles of sola scriptura (scripture alone), the necessity of a born-again experience, and the importance of evangelism. However, how these beliefs are lived out can vary, especially among the younger generation.
Take Andy Stanley, for example, who is someone I'm afraid I have to disagree with. His approach emphasizes adaptability and inclusivity, resonating with younger Evangelicals who may feel disconnected from traditional church structures. Stanley encourages a form of Christianity that prioritizes love and community over strict doctrinal adherence (Stanley, 2018). This is evident in how many younger Evangelicals, inspired by Stanley, are getting involved in social justice initiatives, environmental stewardship, and interfaith dialogue—where they feel their faith can make a real-world impact.
Conversely, leaders like John Piper stress the importance of doctrinal purity and remaining true to traditional beliefs, even when it’s counter-cultural. Younger Evangelicals who follow Piper might be more inclined to engage in conservative communities, prioritize theological education, and advocate for issues like pro-life causes (Piper, 2003). These differing approaches highlight the generational tensions within Evangelicalism as younger believers navigate how to live out their faith in an increasingly secular society.
British Shia Muslims: Tradition Meets Modernity
For British Shia Muslims, the theological foundation is distinct, especially with their belief in the Imamate—the spiritual and political succession from the Prophet Muhammad through the Imams. This belief is central to Shia identity and deeply connected to the historical narratives of suffering and martyrdom, particularly the Karbala events commemorated during Ashura (Momen, 1985).
As British Shia Muslims face the pressures of secularism, these rituals and traditions are evolving. While older generations may have adhered strictly to traditional practices, like public processions during Ashura, younger Shia Muslims are finding new ways to express their connection to these rituals. Some might opt for smaller, more intimate gatherings that focus on Karbala's ethical and social justice messages, making these rituals relevant to their lives in a secular society (Nakshawani, 2017).
Secularism has also prompted a reinterpretation of these rituals. Leaders like Dr. Ammar Nakshawani encourage younger Shia Muslims to see Ashura as a time of mourning and a universal call for justice, equality, and human rights—values that resonate in any context, including a secular one. This intellectual engagement with their faith helps younger Shia Muslims find meaning in their religious practices while navigating the challenges of living in modern Britain (Nakshawani, 2017).
Community and Identity
American Evangelicals: Beyond the Church Walls
Traditionally, the church has been the cornerstone of community life for American Evangelicals. It’s where social activities, support groups, and education programs all come together, reinforcing a shared religious identity. But as the United States becomes more religiously diverse and secular, younger Evangelicals find new ways to connect with their faith.
One significant shift is the move toward digital communities. With the rise of social media, podcasts, and online forums, many Millennials and Gen Z Evangelicals are forming identities and communities online, outside traditional church structures. These digital spaces provide a platform for sharing faith experiences, discussing theological questions, and engaging in social justice initiatives. For example, online ministries and virtual church services have become popular among younger Evangelicals looking for connection and spiritual growth that feels relevant to their lives (Smith, 2014).
This move toward digital communities reflects a broader trend of decentralization within Evangelicalism. Instead of committing to a single local congregation, younger Evangelicals might participate in multiple online communities catering to their specific interests, whether social justice, apologetics, or contemporary worship. This flexible approach allows them to maintain their faith in a way that fits the demands of modern life. However, it also raises questions about the long-term sustainability of these digital communities and their impact on traditional church structures (Campbell, 2020).
British Shia Muslims: Balancing Dual Identities
For British Shia Muslims, identity is closely tied to religious and cultural heritage. Through its communal rituals, religious education, and cultural activities, the Shia community plays a crucial role in preserving this identity. In a multicultural society like the UK, where Shia Muslims are a minority within the larger Muslim population, maintaining this identity can be challenging.
The concept of dual identity—being both British and Muslim—is particularly significant for younger Shia Muslims. They often find themselves negotiating their religious and cultural identities in specific contexts, such as the workplace or in educational settings. For instance, in the workplace, younger Shia Muslims might need to navigate professional expectations while observing religious practices like daily prayers or fasting during Ramadan. Similarly, in schools or universities, they might balance their religious commitments with academic responsibilities, all while being part of a diverse, often secular, student body (Ansari, 2011).
Community centers and online platforms are increasingly important in maintaining Shia identity in a secular environment. These centers serve as hubs for religious education, social activities, and communal worship, providing a sense of belonging and continuity. Online platforms also play a vital role, offering access to religious content and community support that might not be available locally. For example, live-streamed lectures during Ashura or virtual study groups help younger Shia Muslims stay connected to their religious community, even if they are physically distant or living in a predominantly secular environment (Rizvi, 2013).
By engaging in these various forms of religious and social activity, younger British Shia Muslims can maintain a strong sense of identity while navigating the complexities of living in a secular society.
Conclusion: Diverging Paths, Shared Challenges
Though American Evangelicals and British Shia Muslims operate in very different religious, cultural, and historical contexts, they share common challenges in responding to the pressures of secularism. For Gen Z and Millennials within these communities, the conflict between faith and secularism is deeply personal, shaping their identity, beliefs, and sense of belonging.
American Evangelicals are navigating the complexities of maintaining their influence in a society that increasingly diverges from their values. Many younger Evangelicals are turning to digital communities and adapting their religious practices to be more inclusive and relevant to contemporary society. This shift towards online engagement and focusing on social justice reflects a broader trend of decentralization and diversification within the Evangelical community.
British Shia Muslims, meanwhile, are focused on preserving their religious identity in a secular society, balancing the demands of tradition with the realities of modern life. Younger Shia Muslims are finding innovative ways to engage with their faith, whether through adapting traditional rituals like Ashura to align with their secular surroundings or using digital platforms to stay connected with their religious community. These strategies reflect their ability to maintain a strong sense of identity while navigating the complexities of living in a secular society.
Both communities may benefit from continued efforts to adapt and evolve in response to secularism. For American Evangelicals, this might involve finding new ways to integrate their faith with the broader societal values of inclusivity and diversity, while for British Shia Muslims, it could mean further exploration of how their religious practices can coexist with and contribute to British society's secular values. Both groups must continue developing strategies to remain true to their faith while engaging with the world around them.
In conclusion, while this article introduces important themes and offers valuable insights into the challenges faced by these two religious groups, it also highlights the need for a more balanced comparison, a deeper exploration of certain themes, and a clearer structure. Integrating these suggestions will enhance the article's depth and clarity, making it more informative and engaging for anyone interested in the intersection of religion and secularism.