What Is Christianity?
What Christianity is, its core beliefs, its main denominations and where the Bible fits in — gathered in an independent guide that covers every denomination.
How can the traditions be compared?
Catholicism, Eastern Orthodoxy and Protestantism are often used as a broad starting framework; they do not by themselves describe every church or the full diversity of Christianity. “Orthodox” is also not one single structure: Greek Orthodox churches belong to the Eastern Orthodox family, while Armenian and Syriac Apostolic churches belong to the Oriental Orthodox family. These families have distinct historical and theological developments. Catholicism: Communion with the bishop of Rome, the sacraments and a worldwide episcopal structure are defining features of the Catholic tradition. It also contains diverse spiritual and liturgical traditions. Eastern Orthodoxy: Churches such as the Greek Orthodox churches belong to the Eastern Orthodox family, with Byzantine liturgy and a tradition of self-governing local churches. “Orthodox” is not synonymous with the Oriental Orthodox churches. Oriental Orthodoxy: The Armenian Apostolic and Syriac traditions are examples of the Oriental Orthodox family. They have historical divisions and liturgical inheritances distinct from the Eastern Orthodox churches. Protestantism and Anglicanism: Protestantism is a broad family that includes many churches and communities formed after the Reformation. Anglicanism is a distinct tradition that combines Reformation and Catholic inheritances in a particular way and cannot always be reduced to a simple three-part scheme. This summary does not exhaust every doctrinal or liturgical difference. To understand a church, readers should also consult its own official account, worship language and historical setting.
Sources
- Vatican — Catechism of the Catholic Church, Church and unity
- Orthodox Church in America — The Orthodox Faith
- Anglican Communion — Member Churches