Wartości religijne i ich znaczenie w życiu miejskiej społeczności lokalnej

Abstract

Dealt with here is’ the problem of identifying the role of religious beliefs and observances in the processes of formation of local communities in the urbanised region of Upper Silesia, on the example of the „Pokój” settlement in Nowy Bytom. The historical significance of religious values was enhanced when the Catholic church in Upper Silesia took up the task of finding a solution to the so-called „proletarian question” . The church’s endeavours were also directed towards the defence o f family life and the maintaining of cultural traditions. Religion and the church organisational structure reinforced the integration processes in the working class centres. This identification of religion with the social structure and the structure of personal attitudes meant that social activities became „socio-religious” activities. Despite the presently advanced processes of secularisation o f the social outlook and social life, religion as a value is perceived as an important factor shaping both individual and communal life. It is considered as the source of the rationale validating the principles of social life and the subject of social control exerting an influence especially on public opinion whose sanctions, as is well known, have a very real practical importance.