Easter is Sunday, April 9, so here’s a look at the largest religion in the world.
About 31.2% of the world’s population is considered to be Christian. There are more than 45,000 Christian denominations globally and more than 200 in the U.S., according to the Center for the Study of Global Christianity.
Most of the denominations came to be after the Protestant Reformation in 1517.
The Reformation began when German priest Martin Luther wrote his 95 Theses that emphasized personal faith. This movement was in reaction to the interpretations of the Bible, grace, the absolution of sins and entry into heaven all being mediated through priests in Catholicism. Luther claimed that the Bible was the ultimate authority over all people, not a church hierarchy, including the pope. He was also against paying the church money to be absolved of sins.
What Is a Christian denomination?
A denomination in Christianity is a religious organization (an association or fellowship) that unites local congregations in a single, legal and administrative body. Members of a denominational family share the same beliefs or creed, participate in similar worship practices and cooperate together to develop and preserve shared enterprises.
The word denomination comes from the Latin denominare meaning “to name.”
Sources: Pew Research Center, Global Population Review, Christian History Institute, Christianity Today, Center for the Study of Global Christianity, Calvin College Electronic Library
Source: www.mercurynews.com