Description

New Church in the New World by Marguerite Beck Block stands as the definitive exploration of Swedenborgianism in North America, offering readers an unparalleled journey through one of the most intriguing spiritual movements to emerge from the Age of Enlightenment.

This new edition of Block’s classic work includes updated front and back matter, placing the original text in a contemporary context and highlighting its enduring relevance. Whether you’re a scholar of American religion, a student of spiritual philosophy, or simply curious about the diverse tapestry of American faith traditions, New Church in the New World offers a fascinating window into a unique spiritual legacy.

Emanuel Swedenborg, the 18th-century Swedish scientist turned mystic, left an indelible mark on American religious thought. Block’s panoramic study traces the trajectory of Swedenborg’s ideas as they crossed the Atlantic, took root in American soil, and blossomed into a unique spiritual philosophy that would influence generations of thinkers, artists, and believers.

This comprehensive work delves deep into the heart of the New Church, examining its foundational beliefs, the organizational structures that developed around it, and its profound impact on American culture. Readers will discover how Swedenborgian thought intersected with and influenced broader currents of American religion, from established denominations to emerging spiritual movements.

Block’s meticulous research sheds light on institutions within the Swedenborgian movement, like the Academy of the New Church, exploring how these centers of learning and spiritual development helped shape the movement’s diverse identity and mission. The author’s balanced approach offers insight into both the triumphs and challenges faced by the New Church as it sought to establish itself in the religious landscape of a young nation.

For scholars of religious history and theological studies, New Church in the New World provides an invaluable resource. Block’s work contextualizes Swedenborgianism within the broader framework of Enlightenment thought, illustrating how this mystical tradition both drew from and contributed to the intellectual ferment of the 18th century. The book explores how Swedenborgian ideas about the nature of God, the afterlife, and spiritual reality offered a unique perspective that resonated with the revolutionary spirit of the age.

Yet this book is not merely an academic treatise. Block’s engaging prose brings to life the personalities, conflicts, and aspirations that drove the New Church forward. Readers will encounter a cast of fascinating characters whose stories illuminate the human dimension of this spiritual journey.

As a study of a new religious movement, New Church in the New World offers valuable insights into the dynamics of spiritual innovation and institutional development. It explores how Swedenborgianism navigated the challenges of establishing a new faith tradition in a pluralistic society, providing lessons that remain relevant for understanding religious movements today.

Dive into the mystical world of Swedenborgianism and discover how this revolutionary movement helped shape the spiritual landscape of America. Order your copy of New Church in the New World today and embark on a journey through one of the most captivating chapters in American religious history.

Of Note

Read about the link between this book and Emanuel Swedenborg: A Continuing Vision under “Description.”