Background
Christianity
is currently the most popular religion in the world based on the number of
worshippers found throughout the world. While this
monotheistic religion
developed from Judaism, there are several key differences in its teachings.The
Basics
Founder-Jesus of Nazareth and his disciples who helped spread his
teachings.
Geographic Origin-Developed in Judea (now Israel), located in the
Middle East bordering the Mediterranean Sea sometime around the year 30 CE.
Currently Practiced-Christianity is the dominant religion in North
America, South America, Europe, and Russia.
Significant Writings-The Holy Bible, consisting
of both the Old
Testament and the
New Testament.
Places of Worship-Christians practice their faith in temples usually
referred to as churches.
Significant Religious People-Priests and ministers are Christian holy men
and women who are charged with
conducting religious services, ensuring that Jewish laws are observed, and
serving as a spiritual guide for the community. In addition, deacons, nuns,
and monks are people who have dedicated their lives to Christian service.
Teachings and Beliefs
Because Christianity evolved from Judaism, there are certain
concepts that these two religions share. For example, both
Jews and Christians subscribe to the
Ten
Commandments found in the Book of Exodus.
In addition, prophecies of Jewish prophets contained in several
books of the Old Testament stated that God would send a savior,
or messiah,
to the people of Israel. While Judaism clearly states that
this event has not yet occurred, Christians believe that Jesus
of Nazareth was the Son of God, sent to redeem the
world of sin. This has led the Christian faith to proclaim
that there is a Holy
Trinity, formed by the Creator (Father),
Redeemer (Son), and Sustainer (Holy Spirit). Christians believe
that these three entities are all part of a single higher
power.
Christians
are expected to attend church services regularly, usually on Sundays and
holy days such as Christmas and Easter. On these occasions Christians take
part in
sacraments, which are religious practices such as baptism,
and receiving the Eucharist. Web
Resources
Christianity
(Ontario Consultants)
The
Geography of Christianity (Morehead University)
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