Core Beliefs
Christianity is one of the oldest religions still practiced, and the central practices of this faith remain largely unchanged over the centuries. At its core, Christian faith follows the teachings of Jesus, emphasizing societal love, compassion, and justice for others. Christianity is also heavily rooted in the beliefs of one God, that is made up of a trinity of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, who are each equal but have different roles. It also holds many of the same beliefs found in Jewish faith and other faiths.
In the Christian faith, the most important practice is prayer, a way of talking to and thanking God, as well as asking for help, guidance, or strength in difficult times. Another central practice is attending weekly religious services, where congregants can worship together and hear sermons about God’s teachings for our lives. Practicing Christians may also dedicate time, energy, and even money to helping others in their communities and around the world – those less fortunate, or those in need. Keeping up with the Ten Commandments, which lay out how we are meant to interact and treat one another, is an important part of the Christian practice.
Sacraments
Sacraments are religious ceremonies that help to bring a spiritual connection into one’s life. In Catholicism, seven sacraments are typically celebrated, including Baptism, Marriage, Reconciliation (Confession), Eucharist (Communion), Anointing of the Sick, Holy Orders, and Confirmation. Each sacrament is accompanied by rituals that vary slightly in different denominations.
The most well known sacrments are Baptism and Holy Communion. During the sacrament of Baptism, the new Christian is usually symbolically cleansed by water, and then receives anointed with oil, and the Holy Spirit. At communion, or the Eucharist, bread and wine are blessed and shared as symbols of Jesus’ body and blood. It is believed in Catholicism that during this ritual, the bread and wine actually become Christ’s body and blood. This sacrament reinforces the belief in Jesus’ sacrifice for humanity.
Holidays & Festivals
Christianity has several holidays throughout the year that celebrate different parts of its beliefs and the teachings of Jesus. The most well-known of these holidays is Christmas, which celebrates the birth of Jesus. This holiday is often celebrated with traditional religious services, family gatherings, and gift-giving. Other major Christian holidays include Easter, which celebrates Jesus’ resurrection; Ash Wednesday and Lent, which mark the forty-day period preceding Easter; and Pentecost, which celebrates the descent of the Holy Spirit upon the apostles.
In addition to these major holidays, there are many other Christian festivals that are celebrated throughout the year. These include Epiphany, which celebrates the visit of the Magi to Jesus; the Feast of the Annunciation, which marks the moment when the archangel Gabriel told Mary she would give birth to Jesus; and All Souls’ Day, which honors the dead.
Charitable Works
Charity is an important part of the Christian practice. Though some denominations may differ on what charitable works should be done and how to do them, most agree that helping the less fortunate is a core part of the faith. This can take many forms, from direct giving to participating in community service projects or working with organizations that serve the less fortunate. It is believed that by giving of oneself -time, money, energy, etc. – one can make a difference in the world.
Charity is seen as an act of love, which is itself a core Christian value. Loving thy neighbor as thyself is a key part of the Christian teachings, and it is believed that through acts of charity, one can bring more love, understanding, and peace into the world. Volunteering is often an important step in practicing religious charity, allowing someone to serve those in need while also leading them to the path of God’s love.
Bible Readings
The Bible is a central text in the Christian faith, and it is strongly encouraged for all believers to read it. Bible readings can take many forms. Individual or group readings, as well as private or community readings, are all common. This can be done through physical books or through digital versions. Bible readings are often accompanied by prayers, reflections, and other spiritual activities. Bible studies may also be conducted, and many churches offer Bible study classes for their members.
Another form of Bible reading is lecture series. In lecture series, a loca1 pastor, or even a visiting lecturer, will come to a church and teach about different parts of the Bible. These series may cover one book of the Bible, or a particular topic related to faith. The lecture format also allows for audience participation, allowing those present to ask questions and gain a deeper understanding of the religious text.
Evangelism & Missionary Work
Evangelism is a term used to describe the sharing and spreading of the Gospel, or the Christian faith. For some denominations, evangelism is an important part of the Christian practice, with believers taking on mission trips and doing outreach programs to share their faith with those who may not have heard of it yet. Mission trips can vary in length and scope, from a few days of service in one’s own community, to months-long international trips.
Missionary work can also include charity work, as those doing outreach will often serve those who are less fortunate as a way to bring Jesus’ teachings into their lives. Reaching out to others allows Christians to practice their faith in a tangible way, leading people to salvation and providing help to those in need. Evangelism and missionary work can take many forms, from door-to-door visits, to organizing Bible studies and events.
Social Works & Advocacy
Social works and advocacy are important elements of Christianity, as it is believed that bringing about positive social change is another way to promote love and justice in the world. Social works and advocacy may involve anything from organizing an event to help the homeless, to fighting for policy and legislation that helps those who are most affected by poverty and inequality. Christian organizations often lead many of these social justice projects, as a way to promote their beliefs of love, inclusivity, and justice for all.
Social works and advocacy are also often linked to Bible-based teachings, such as those found in the Beatitudes. Many Christians believe that bringing about positive change in the world is a way to promote the teachings of Jesus, leading more people to faith. It is also seen as a way to create a more inclusive and just society, which is central to the teachings of the Christian faith.
