Liturgi, konversioner och genus i den efterreformatoriska katolska kyrkan i Norden

Abstract

The relationship between worship and gender is a contentious issue within the Catholic Church. In recent decades, the debate has predominantly focused on the question of challenging patriarchal and male-dominated liturgical forms and traditions. However, within traditionalist Catholic circles, Catholic liturgy is considered to have lost much of its former masculine character due to the reforms implemented after the Second Vatican Council (1962–65). In my article, I explore this question by analysing the role of the liturgy in the Catholic conversion movement that originated in Scandinavia as a result of the liberalization of religious laws in the mid-19th century. I examine the connection between gender and liturgy in conversion narratives and highlight changes that have occurred over time.

Prior to the Second Vatican Council, the Catholic Church strongly emphasized its claim of being the only true church, and Protestant regions, such as the Nordic countries, were regarded as missionary fields. Catholic priests and sisters working in this region were therefore understood as missionaries with the task to pursue mission and winning converts. Catholic worship possessed a distinct sacred and ceremonial character, which attracted many non-Catholics and fostered a strong interest in the Catholic faith. This was also evident in Scandinavia. In conversion narratives published during the first half of the 20th century, there are many examples of encounters with the Catholic liturgy functioning as an incentive for conversion, not least among male converts.

Following the liturgical reform of 1969, much of the cultural and aesthetic aura that had characterized the Catholic liturgy dissipated. A Swedish survey on the reasons for conversion after the council reveals that church doctrine and liturgy were considered of less importance than in the previous period. Instead, spiritual values such as the experience of God and sanctification took precedence, as did the sense of community within a parish. This shift reflects the changes in church teachings after the council and the introduction of new liturgical concepts associated with the liturgical reform.

Over the past two decades, a new trend reversal has occurred in the Scandinavian discourse on conversion. In recent conversion narratives the firm doctrine of the Catholic Church is frequently emphasised, and the liturgy, particularly in its older form, is once again being highlighted as a significant factor in the conversion process, particularly among male converts. This can be seen as a consequence of the increased ritualization of the Mass celebration that is observed in many Catholic churches, as well as a reflection of a general conservative trend within Catholicism. Furthermore, the leadership of the Roman Church has opposed efforts to develop clerical offices for women and has staunchly affirmed the male character of Catholic priesthood.