CHRISTIANITY

CHRISTIANITY: Where it’s practiced

christianity The religion centered on belief in JESUS as the Son of God. CHRIST – from the Greek word “christos” meaning “anointed” or messiah. 1st Century AD – Christianity grew slowly 2nd Century AD – “ took root 3rd Century AD – “ was widespread

History Jesus = a Jew born in Bethlehem – regional tax collecting/census center (under Roman control) According to the Gospels, Jesus was born from a virgin (Mary). “The Immaculate Conception” Grew up in in the city of Nazareth in Galilee – (modern-day Northern Israel) Baptized by John the Baptist, began his ministry Because his teachings emphasized spiritual equality, they appealed to many, especially women and the poor

History Many Jews see him as a threat – call him a false prophet Judas betrays Jesus, Romans arrest him Pontius Pilate (Roman governor of Judea) allows Jesus to be crucified Crucifixion – “Good Friday” Resurrection – Easter Sunday Christianity is spread by 12 disciples but especially Saul/Paul. He wrote the majority of books in the New Testament.

History Persecution: Nero and Diocletian 313 AD – Edict of Milan – Constantine - granted religious toleration to Christians in the Roman Empire Theodosius – makes Christianity the official religion of the Empire in 380 AD

Organization Original Church was Catholic Pope Cardinals Archbishops Priests 1054 AD – Great Schism – Eastern Orthodox 1500s AD – Protestant Reformation Today: 3 Branches – Catholic, Eastern Orthodox, Protestant

Teachings/beliefs God is a Trinity – Father, Son, and Holy Spirit Faith/Belief = Salvation +++Differences - The Eucharist – actual or symbolic? - Baptism – age/sprinkle v. immersion -predestination -confirmation -marriage/divorce -confession/penance