| Through an examination of the religious ideology of Holland Nimmons McTyeire as evidenced in his sermons, editorials, and other writings, this thesis sheds light on the relationship between religion and the New South creed. Although he developed his ideology in the antebellum era, his ideas carried over into the postwar era albeit changed because of his war experience and the New South context. Because McTyeire believed that the South lacked a stable social structure, as he felt God desired, new leaders had to be established. Without the traditional leadership of the gentry, middle class professionals rose to power and McTyeire helped push the Methodist Episcopal Church, South to be accommodating toward their business practices, ambitions, and social prestige. His ideology essentially merged with the New South creed to become a plan of action to advance the southern Methodist church by modernizing its ecclesiastical structure, professionalizing its ministry, and defending its beliefs and institutions. Ultimately, McTyeire declared victory for his plan of action while ignoring many convenient realities that indicated otherwise. In the end, McTyeire's actions hastened the shift of southern Methodism from a populist religion of the heart toward an all-white, high-brow, and wealthy denomination. |
