Church and Society in Edinburgh 1850-1905

This study examines the relationship between denominational affiliation, class and gender in the city of Edinburgh between 1850 and 1905. The churches played a leading role in the movements for social and political reform, both locally and nationally. The diversity of church life is shown in the various schisms within Scottish Presbyterianism, which gradually reunited, although always with some individual congregations remaining outwith the unions. The various religious revivals, which occurred during this period, stimulated church growth and led to the development of philanthropy as an expression of faith in Christ.

Although Presbyterianism was the dominant form of church government in Scotland, other denominations also played their part in the religious life of the city. In the social analysis of congregations, contrasting pairs of churches are examined, as are missions to the poor, who preferred to worship in their own environment. These missions were usually operated as evangelical outreach from large charges, as examples of Christianity in action where members sought to improve their social and moral conditions.