Different Denominations
Since I began studying Theology (since around 1999), one of the most common questions I get is "what does so-and-so group believe about x?" I find these questions fascinating, and even though I am Catholic, I am still intrigued by other churches and their beliefs even if I wouldn’t join myself. Over the next few weeks I am going to be profiling different groups and their beliefs, from both a general informational and Catholic perspective (such as what each group believes about the Eucharist, morality, etc). I can’t cover all 32,000 denominations (including "non-denominational" denominations), but I will cover the major ones. If there is any particular group that fascinates you or you have questions about, please leave a comment and I’ll cover that group. Stay tuned!
Image from: http://www.britainexpress.com
June 7th, 2005 at 2:26 pm
Ah yes, one has to smile: “non-denominational” denominations
July 22nd, 2005 at 7:25 am
The website is really helpful. I hope you’ll get to the protestant denominations soon. I work for a christian development organisation. And in my work I often deal with people from faith-based organisations with different denominational backgrounds. That can be very difficult. For instance getting different churchleaders in Zimbabwe to come up with ONE STRONG VOICE regarding inhuman policy of their government or understanding the different viewpoints on dealing with HIV and AIDS.
For instance differences between Independent Methodist, Methodist Episcopal and United methodist Church.
I also came across Zion Christion Church (African independent churches), Apostolic Faith etc.
And last question: are all evangelicals pentecostals ?
Thank you.
July 22nd, 2005 at 11:52 pm
Urdice,
I am not sure about the Zion Christian Church. Apostolic can either mean “Apostolic Pentecostal,” who deny the Trinity and speak in tongues, or “Apostolic” as in Catholic.
Not all evangelicals are pentecostals. Pentecostals are essentially Christians who speak in tongues, and make this an essential part of the Christian faith. Many evangelicals (Baptists, Methodists, etc) do not speak in tongues and would disavow the label “Pentecostal.” I am going to update the denomination series shortly. I am going outward from the Catholic Church in terms of similarity. Lutherans are next.