Despite public hostility toward Roman Catholicism by mid-nineteenth-century American Protestants, there are notable cases of influential Northern Protestants converting to Catholicism. Particular conversions during the 1840s may be primarily attributed to shared experiences among the converts before changing faiths, facilitated by the evangelistic outreach of the Roman Catholic Church. Such transitions may be seen as a “push and pull” pattern manifesting in four stages: Dissatisfaction, Quest, Encounter, and Commitment. This paper examines the conversion path of Orestes A. Brownson (1803–1876), a prominent Northeastern religionist. Brownson’s conversion to Roman Catholicism stemmed from his dissatisfaction with Protestant doctrine, and his investigation of and response to Catholic outreach.
Inter-faith convert narratives provide a unique lens through which we can better understand religious groups, movements, and their interactions. Delving into the personal journeys of converts can uncover the intricacies of their spiritual traditions, evidenced by differences in their rituals, practices, and beliefs. Lincoln A. Mullen noted in The Chance of Salvation: A History of Conversion in America, “Conversion was one of the ever-present themes of nineteenth-century American religion,” underscoring its significance worthy of study. Insights gleaned from these narratives can prove invaluable to researching current trends in evangelistic conversions, as the Pew Research Center found the number of Catholic and mainline Protestant adherents has sharply declined, with more members switching faiths than being gained.
The study’s methodology establishes the period’s context by examining social and cultural trends shaping Brownson’s transition. Common conversion elements influencing Brownson’s transition to Catholicism are outlined. Brownson’s developing intellectual temperament is also assessed, significantly impacting his choices. Finally, direct quotes and accounts are cited to substantiate the claim that Brownson’s conversion followed the four stages of Dissatisfaction, Quest, Encounter, and Commitment.