Christian Denominations

Rooted in the Church of England, Anglicanism holds a middle way between Catholic tradition and Protestant reform. Episcopal churches in the United States are part of the worldwide Anglican Communion.

The world's largest Pentecostal denomination, founded in 1914. The Assemblies of God emphasizes the baptism of the Holy Spirit, speaking in tongues, and the continuation of spiritual gifts.

One of the largest Protestant families, Baptists trace their roots to the early 17th century. They are known for believer's baptism by immersion, congregational church governance, and a strong emphasis on Scripture.

Biblical Unitarians affirm the full authority of Scripture while rejecting the doctrine of the Trinity, holding that God is one person — the Father alone — and that Jesus is the fully human Messiah, not pre-existent God. The movement draws on early church debates and Reformation-era scholarship.

The largest Christian body in the world, the Roman Catholic Church traces its authority through apostolic succession to St. Peter. It is led by the Pope and is unified by a common Magisterium, sacramental life, and liturgy.

Part of the Restoration Movement, Churches of Christ seek to restore New Testament Christianity without creeds or denominational structures. Each congregation is autonomous.

Several distinct denominations share this name, most rooted in the Holiness and Pentecostal movements of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The Church of God (Cleveland, TN) is among the oldest Pentecostal bodies.

One of the oldest Christian traditions, Eastern Orthodoxy separated from Rome in the Great Schism of 1054. It encompasses a family of self-governing churches united by theology, liturgy, and apostolic succession.

Evangelicalism is a transdenominational movement rather than a single denomination, characterized by a high view of Scripture, the necessity of personal conversion, the centrality of the cross, and active evangelism.

Founded in the late 19th century through the Bible Student movement of Charles Taze Russell, Jehovah's Witnesses are known for door-to-door evangelism, refusal of blood transfusions, and the use of the divine name Jehovah. They are organized under the Watchtower Bible and Tract Society.

Founded on the reforms of Martin Luther in 16th-century Germany, Lutheranism was the first major Protestant tradition. It is defined by the doctrines of grace alone, faith alone, and Scripture alone.

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints was founded by Joseph Smith in 1830 in New York. Members believe Smith received additional scripture — the Book of Mormon — and restored the original church of Jesus Christ. It is one of the fastest-growing religious movements in the world.

Anabaptists emerged during the Radical Reformation of the 16th century, insisting on believer's baptism, separation of church and state, and nonviolence. Mennonites are the largest surviving Anabaptist group.

Founded by John Wesley in 18th-century England, Methodism emphasizes personal holiness, social justice, and the possibility of entire sanctification. The United Methodist Church is the largest Methodist body in the United States.

One of the oldest Protestant denominations, the Moravian Church traces its roots to the followers of Jan Hus in 15th-century Bohemia. Renewed in the 18th century under Count Zinzendorf, it became a pioneering missionary movement.

Non-denominational churches operate independently of any denominational structure. They are among the fastest-growing segments of American Christianity, often combining evangelical theology with contemporary worship.

Born out of the Azusa Street Revival of 1906, Pentecostalism emphasizes the ongoing work of the Holy Spirit, including speaking in tongues, prophecy, and healing as signs of Spirit baptism.

Rooted in the theology of John Calvin and the Scottish Reformation led by John Knox, Presbyterian churches are governed by elected elders (presbyters) and hold to the Reformed confessions.

Founded by George Fox in 17th-century England, the Religious Society of Friends (Quakers) emphasizes the direct experience of God without clergy or sacraments. They are known for their commitment to peace, equality, and simplicity.

Founded by William and Catherine Booth in 1865 in London, the Salvation Army is a Christian church and international charitable organization. It is structured along military lines and is known for its social service ministry.

Emerging from the Millerite movement of the 1840s, Seventh-day Adventists observe the Sabbath on Saturday, emphasize the imminent return of Christ, and maintain a holistic approach to health and lifestyle.

Formed in 1957 through the merger of four Protestant traditions, the United Church of Christ is known for its progressive theology, congregational polity, and commitment to social justice.