Paper short abstract:

This study of the new religious Oasis Movement in Sweden from 1984 onwards aims at answering the following research questions: Which historical background provides the basis for whatever is to be renewed or rediscovered? How does adaptation to the modern time proceed?

Paper long abstract:

This study of the new religious Oasis Movement aims at answering the following research questions:

Which historical background provides the basis for whatever is to be renewed or rediscovered? How does adaptation to the modern time proceed?

The Oasis movement in Sweden started in 1984 as the Reference Group for Spiritual Renewal in the Swedish Church. This Movement has successively acquired a more ecumenical emphasis and is no longer related solely to the Swedish Church. The Movement deliberately addresses all age groups and social classes. Hierarchy is not allowed. It is a charismatic movement. The reintroduced liturgical rituals include the rediscovery of communion, confession, dance, flags, intercessional prayers including the laying on of hands and anointment with oils, healing services, speaking in tongues, and songs of praise. This takes place in combination with lifted hands, personal testimony, prophetic messages and music played on modern instruments. The Oasis Movement diligently uses digital media to spread its spiritual message and information.

The Oasis Movement is not a static organisation, but one in continuous change. Some new rituals have arisen suddenly and spontaneously, but their roots are firmly planted in biblical examples. A basic principle manifest in the Oasis Movement is the idea of renewal on a historical basis. The concept of oscillation between continuity and change is basic in this study which examines the Oasis Movement from the inside and follows its development and changes across time. The liturgical independence agrees with the spirit of contemporary individualism resisting any form of conformity.