Revivalism

Revivalism, in religion, emphasis on personal experience and salvation of the soul. This form of worship is often characterized by emotionally charged gospel preaching that is extemporaneous and requires audience participation. Revivalism began in Europe in the 1700s and spread quickly to North America in a series of “Great Awakenings.” Prayer meetings, outdoor services, often called camp meetings, and tent meetings, or chautauquas, were practiced widely in the 1800s and early 1900s, much less so today. Itinerant preachers would travel from town to town with their entourages, set up tents, and exhort congregations to receive eternal salvation for their souls. Today, revivalism is practiced primarily by organized, denominational churches, principally Baptist and Methodist, many of whom broadcast their congregations' services to at-home audiences as well.

See also: Great Awakening.