Major Christian Denominations
Major Christian Denominations
A Christian denomination is a distinct religious body within Christianity that comprises church congregations of the same kind, identifiable by traits such as name, organization, and doctrine. The major Christian denominations often emerge from historical schisms, reformations, or doctrinal disagreements, resulting in a wide diversity of beliefs and practices within the Christian faith.
Major Denominational Families
Roman Catholicism
Roman Catholicism is the largest Christian denomination, with over a billion members worldwide. It traces its origins to the early Christian community founded by Jesus Christ and considers the Pope to be the successor of Saint Peter. The Vatican City, an independent city-state enclaved within Rome, serves as the central hub of the Roman Catholic Church.
Eastern Orthodoxy
Eastern Orthodoxy encompasses a fellowship of autocephalous churches, including the Greek Orthodox Church and the Russian Orthodox Church. It developed in the Eastern Roman Empire and is known for its continuity with the early Church Fathers, liturgical traditions, and iconography.
Protestantism
Protestantism originated in the 16th-century Reformation, a movement against perceived abuses in the Roman Catholic Church. Major branches include:
- Lutheranism: Founded by Martin Luther, it emphasizes justification by faith and the authority of the Bible.
- Calvinism: Based on the teachings of John Calvin, it focuses on the sovereignty of God and predestination.
- Anglicanism: Originating in the Church of England, it maintains a middle way (via media) between Roman Catholicism and Protestant Reformation principles.
- Methodism: Founded by John Wesley, it emphasizes sanctification and social justice.
Oriental Orthodoxy
Oriental Orthodoxy includes churches that rejected the Council of Chalcedon in 451 AD. Notable members are the Coptic Orthodox Church and the Armenian Apostolic Church.
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
Also known as the Mormon Church, it was founded by Joseph Smith in the early 19th century. It espouses additional scriptures, such as the Book of Mormon, and has unique beliefs regarding prophecy and revelation.
Baptist Churches
Baptists emphasize believer's baptism (as opposed to infant baptism), the authority of local congregations, and the autonomy of the local church. They are known for their congregational governance and emphasis on individual piety and conversion experiences.