In what ways has the rise of secularism altered religious practices within Christianity, identity formation, and public expressions of faith in pluralistic societies?

!!THIS IS JUST AN OUTLINE I HAVE LINKED BOOKS!! !!You can add some creative directive!! Research TOPIC In what ways has the rise of secularism altered religious practices within Christianity, identity formation, and public expressions of faith in pluralistic societies? The Political Impact of Secularism on Christianity in Pluralistic Societies Introduction • Contextual Background: Define secularism and its emergence in pluralistic societies. • Thesis Statement: The rise of secularism has significantly influenced Christian religious practices, reshaped Christian identity formation, and transformed public expressions of faith, all within the political frameworks of pluralistic societies. Secularism and Christian Religious Practices • Adaptation of Practices: Explore how Christian denominations have modified rituals and services to align with secular norms. • Government Policies: Examine policies enforcing the separation of church and state, impacting religious practices. • Example: The U.S. Constitution’s Establishment Clause prohibits government endorsement of religion, influencing how churches operate publicly. • Case Study: France’s laïcité policy restricts religious symbols in public institutions, affecting Christian expressions. Identity Formation Among Christians in Secular Contexts • Political Identity: Discuss how secularism has led Christians to form political identities, sometimes resulting in movements like Christian nationalism. • Generational Shifts: Analyze how younger Christians navigate their faith identities amidst secular influences. • Government Reports: Refer to studies on religious affiliation trends and their political implications. Public Expressions of Faith and Political Responses • Legal Challenges: Detail legal cases where public expressions of Christian faith have been contested. • Example: Debates over prayer in public schools or religious displays on government property. • Policy Developments: Discuss recent government actions affecting religious expression. • Example: The establishment of a presidential commission on religious liberty in the U.S. . Comparative Analysis: Christianity in Different Political Contexts • United States: Examine the balance between religious freedom and secular governance. • France: Analyze the strict secularism approach and its impact on Christian practices. • India: Explore the model of accommodationism and its effects on Christian minorities. Conclusion • Synthesis: Summarize how secularism has politically influenced Christian practices, identity, and public expression. • Future Outlook: Reflect on potential developments in the relationship between secularism and Christianity in pluralistic societies. References: •U.S. Constitution, First Amendment French 1905 Law on the Separation of the Churches and the State Oxford Research Encyclopedia of Politics: “Secularism and Religion” Politico: “Trump, brushing aside separation of church and state, establishes religious liberty commission” BOOKS MUST USE The Flag, the Cross, and the Station Wagon Bill McKibben Jesus and John Wayne To make men free: History of Republican party The founding Myth Why christian nationalism is Un-American https://www.whitehouse.gov/fact-sheets/2025/05/fact-sheet-president-donald-j-trump-establishes-the-religious-liberty-commission/