Lecture: The Rich Catholic Life, Between Obedience and Rebelliousness

How did Catholics in West Brabant experience the ‘rich Catholic life’? According to Prof. Dr. Arnoud-Jan Bijsterveld, it ranged between obedience and stubbornness. His research shows that there was tension between what the church prescribed and how ordinary believers practiced their faith. 

This period is often depicted mainly as a time of sweet devotion, obedience to the priest, and strict sexual morals. But that image is only partially correct. Religious life was more complex: people could be obedient and patient, but also stubborn or even rebellious.

In this lecture, examples from testimonies of West Brabant residents are given.