Christian Warfare: Early 19th Century
During the early 19th century, there was a struggle, a certain type of religious warfare that was occurring not only within the boarders of America, but also abroad in distant foreign lands. In American Manhood: Transformations in Masculinity from the Revolution to Modern Era, E. Anthony Rotundo calls this struggle, Christian Warfare. During this time, preachers and ministers waged a holy war to conquer "hedonism" and made it a personal challenge to spread Christianity to foreign lands. The influential sparks that ignited this holy warfare were the revival and reform movements that flourished throughout the 19th century, similar to the ones that Middlebury experienced during its early years. The great reform movements gave ministers and missionaries opportunities to apply assertiveness, energy, and even masculine hostility to the cause of Christian goodness. Middlebury College was engulfed in this wave of religious reform during its founding years, and Pliny Fisk was a result of this evangelical wave. This type of warfare was vigorous, persevering, tiresome and constant. It tested the patience of those who attempted to spread Christianity to foreign lands. John Kirk, a salesman, said in regards to this movement, "You have enlisted in the Christian Warfare for life, under Christ, your King." (Rotundo, E. American Manhood: Transformations in Masculinity from the Revolution to Modern Era pg.173).
Some believe that there is a certain feminine quality that comes with being a priest. Before this great religious movement, many viewed priesthood as being a non-confrontational, feminine, quiet, and non-manly profession. With this strong religious movement, more and more young men were intrigued by priesthood and were excited about the possible opportunities that priesthood offered. "Moreover, this sacred combativeness made career choice possible for many young men by adding toughness to 'feminine' professions and lending virtue to 'manly' callings." (Rotundo, E. American Manhood: Transformations in Masculinity from the Revolution to Modern Era pg.173). This new outlook and excitement towards missionary work and the priesthood is exactly what intrigued young men like Pliny Fisk.
Plink Fisk was a Christian Soldier, he was extremely devoted to his cause as a Christian missionary. Fisk experienced many tough times during his mission abroad but never lost his faith or calling. Fisk was passionate and determined about spreading Jesus' word.
The following link will guide you to numerous letters and excerpts from Pliny Fisk regarding his work and thoughts as a missionary. These personal writings from Pliny Fisk will show you the true meaning of what a Christian Soldier represented during the early 19th century.