Christianity

        Christianity is the world’s largest religion, with over two billion followers worldwide. It began in the 1st century CE in the Middle East, growing out of Jewish traditions. Its founder is Jesus of Nazareth, a Jewish teacher and healer believed by his followers to be the Messiah (or “Christ”) and the Son of God.

        Christians believe that Jesus was crucified on the cross by the Romans, died, and then rose from the dead three days later. This moment is known as the Resurrection. His life and teachings are recorded in the New Testament, especially in the four Gospels (Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John). After Jesus’ resurrection and ascension, his disciples spread his message across the Roman Empire and beyond, forming the early Christian Church.

        Over time, Christianity developed different branches and split between the Catholic Church and Protestantism. They both had their own belief systems separate from each other.

        At the heart of Christianity, it is about a personal relationship with God through Jesus. Christians strive to be like Jesus and follow his teachings about love, forgiveness, humility, and selflessness.

• God – Christians believe in one God who exists in three persons: the Father, the Son (Jesus), and the Holy Spirit. This is called the Trinity.

• Jesus Christ – Christians believe Jesus is both fully divine and fully human, sent to save humanity from sin. His death and resurrection offer forgiveness and eternal life.

• The Bible – The Christian holy book is divided into the Old Testament (shared with Judaism) and the New Testament, which focuses on Jesus and the early Church.

• Salvation – Christians believe people are separated from God by sin but can be saved through faith in Jesus. Good deeds are encouraged, but salvation is a gift of grace.

• Prayer and Worship – Christians pray to God, read scripture, and attend services, often weekly at churches. Worship includes singing, sermons, and sacraments.

• Sacraments – Practices like baptism and communion (Eucharist) are central in many Christian traditions.

• Love and Service – Christians are called to love God and love their neighbors, care for the poor, and show compassion to all.

Christian holidays include:

• Christmas – celebrating the birth of Jesus

• Easter – remembering Jesus’ resurrection

• Good Friday – honoring Jesus’ crucifixion

• Lent – a season of reflection leading up to Easter

• Pentecost – celebrating the coming of the Holy Spirit to Jesus’ followers

        Christians believe in eternal life, that after death, people will be judged by God. The salvation plan on how to get eternal life in Heaven, a place of peace and closeness to God, is disagreed on across denominations. Those who do not make it to Heaven may face separation from God, described as Hell. 

        Christianity has a lot of varying branches; however, they all agree that no one is perfect. Through love, faith, and grace people can grow closer to God. With a message of forgiveness, purpose, and eternal life and hope, Christianity has shaped cultures and lives for over two thousand years and remains to be a prominent force in the world today.