The starting point for the analysis of extensive source material is the comparison of theoretical-abstract initial considerations regarding the structure of religious consciousness and the relationship between religion and society with historically concrete material. The connection between socio-economic and political development on one hand and changes in the social consciousness of religious masses on the other becomes evident. This approach includes uncovering the historical foundations of current developments as well as a periodization of the development of base communities. Furthermore, the analysis examines the ideological and politically ideological views of community members, meaning a critical examination of ideology as well as the analysis of the collaboration between Marxists and Christians in Central America.