Christian Practices
Liturgical and informal worship
Worship is showing love and devotion to God. It involves honouring and praising God through things like prayer, singing hymns, and evangelising.
Liturgical worship follows a set pattern or order. It is based around the sacraments. This means that the prayers, readings, and songs are usually the same each time and are often written down in a book.
Roman Catholic worship is liturgical. Mass is the central act. It features pre-set prayers, hymns, scripture readings, and the celebration of the Eucharist.
Non-liturgical worship is a flexible type of church service that doesn’t follow a fixed order or set prayers. It can include spontaneous prayers and activities like singing and personal testimonies. A testimony is someone’s account of how their life has been transformed by their faith in Jesus.
Quaker and Evangelical worship are non-liturgical.
Quaker worship involves gathering in silence and waiting for the Holy Spirit to inspire individuals to speak. This makes space for reflection.
Evangelical worship is usually charismatic: a lively experience of the Holy Spirit. It can include speaking in tongues, faith healing, prophecy, joyful music, and powerful sermons.
Key words
Charismatic: A lively and energetic way of worshiping, often involving special gifts from the Holy Spirit
Devotion: Showing deep love and loyalty to God
Eucharist: A special ceremony where Catholics share bread and wine, remembering Jesus’ last meal
Evangelising: Sharing the good news about Jesus with others
Faith healing: Praying for someone to be healed from sickness or injury
Fixed order: Following a specific plan or sequence, like a recipe
Flexible: Able to change or adapt easily
Holy Spirit: One part of the Trinity, like God’s helper or guide
Hymns: Special songs sung in church to praise God
Informal worship: A flexible type of church service without a set order
Liturgical worship: A type of church service that follows a set pattern or order
Mass: The central act of worship in the Catholic Church
Non-liturgical worship: Another name for informal worship
Personal testimonies: Stories people share about how their faith in Jesus has changed their lives
Powerful sermons: Inspiring talks given by a pastor or preacher
Prayer: Talking to God
Prophecy: A message from God about the future or what He wants
Quaker worship: A quiet type of worship where people gather in silence and wait for the Holy Spirit to speak
Reflection: Thinking deeply about something
Roman Catholic worship: A type of liturgical worship in the Catholic Church
Sacraments: Special ceremonies in the Catholic Church, like getting baptized or married
Set pattern: Following a specific order or routine
Spontaneous prayers: Prayers said without being planned or written down beforehand
Speaking in tongues: Speaking in a language that you don’t know, believed to be a gift from the Holy Spirit
Worship: Showing love and devotion to God
Private and corporate worship
Private worship is personal time with God through prayer, Bible reading, and meditation, done individually at home or in nature.
Corporate worship is gathering with others in a church setting to do things like pray.
The Bible says that when people worship corporately (together), Jesus is with them.
For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them.
Matthew 18:20
Key words
Bible: The holy book for Christians, full of stories and teachings.
Church: A special building where Christians go to pray and learn about their faith. You could also think of it as a club where people with the same beliefs meet up.
Corporate worship: When a group of Christians get together at church to pray, sing, and learn about God. It’s like a big party where everyone celebrates their faith together.
Gather: To come together in one place, like friends meeting at the park
God: The creator and ruler of the universe, who Christians believe is loving and powerful
Jesus: The central figure of Christianity, believed to be the Son of God
Matthew: One of the books in the Bible that tells the story of Jesus’ life and teachings
Meditation: Quietly focusing your mind to find peace and inner calm, like taking a deep breath and relaxing
Prayer: Talking to God, like having a conversation with your best friend
Private worship: When you spend time alone with God, praying, reading the Bible, or meditating. It’s like having a special quiet time with someone you love.
Prayer
Prayer is communication with God. Christians share their thoughts, thanks, and requests with Him. Prayer involves talking to God and listening for His guidance.
Prayer can be about
| adoration and praise | praising God |
| thanksgiving | giving thanks to God |
| petition | asking for personal needs |
| intercession | praying for others by name |
| confession | seeking forgiveness for sins |
Key words
Adoration: Showing deep love and respect for God
Bible reading: Reading the Bible, the holy book of Christians
Church setting: A place where Christians gather to worship, like a church building
Communication: Talking and listening to someone
Confession: Saying sorry to God for doing something wrong
Corporate worship: Worshipping God together with other people
Gather: To come together in one place
Guidance: Help or advice on what to do
Intercession: Praying for other people
Jesus: The most important person in Christianity, believed to be the Son of God
Matthew 18:20: A verse in the Bible that says Jesus is present when people gather in his name
Meditation: Quietly focusing your mind on God or spiritual things
Petition: Asking God for something you need or want
Praise: Telling God how great He is
Prayer: Talking and listening to God
Private worship: Worshipping God by yourself
Thanksgiving: Thanking God for the good things in your life
Set prayer
A set prayer is a pre-written prayer that is often memorised. These can be used in corporate and private worship.
Lord’s prayer
One example is the Lord’s Prayer, as taught by Jesus.
Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name, your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us today our daily bread. And forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one
The Lord’s Prayer, found in Matthew 6:9-13, includes several aims of prayer:
‘Our Father in heaven’ hallowed be your name’ praises God’s holiness
‘Give us today our daily bread’ is a request (petition) for spiritual food
‘Forgive us our debts’ is a plea for forgiveness, confessing your sins.
Sign of the cross
The Sign of the Cross prayer involves making the sign of the cross on one’s body while reciting these words:
In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen
Sign of the Cross
It serves as a reminder of the Holy Trinity.
Hail Mary prayer
The Hail Mary is a Roman Catholic prayer to the Virgin Mary, the mother of Jesus.
Hail Mary, full of grace, the Lord is with thee. Blessed art thou amongst women and blessed is the fruit of thy womb, Jesus. Holy Mary, Mother of God, pray for us sinners, now and at the hour of our death. Amen.
This prayer honours Mary as ‘full of grace’ and ‘blessed’ (adoration). It also asks for her help: ‘pray for us sinners’ (petition).
Key words
Amen: A word said at the end of a prayer, meaning “so be it” or “I agree”
Blessed: Having good things happen to you, like having a loving family or good health
Corporate worship: Worshipping God together with other people
Debtors: People who owe something to someone else
Deliver us from evil: Asking God to protect us from bad things
Father: One part of the Trinity, like God the Dad
Forgive: To let go of anger or hurt feelings towards someone who has wronged you
Full of grace: Filled with God’s special favor and blessings
Hail Mary: A prayer to Mary, the mother of Jesus
Hallowed be thy name: A way of saying God’s name is holy and special
Holy Spirit: One part of the Trinity, like God’s helper or guide
Holy Trinity: The idea that God is three in one: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit
Lead us not into temptation: Asking God to help us avoid doing wrong things
Lord’s Prayer: A special prayer that Jesus taught his followers
Matthew 6:9-13: A part of the Bible where Jesus teaches the Lord’s Prayer
Memorized: Learned by heart, so you can say it without looking
Petition: Asking God for something you need or want
Pre-written prayer: A prayer that someone else wrote down, not made up on the spot
Private worship: Worshipping God by yourself
Set prayer: A pre-written prayer that is often memorized
Sign of the cross: Making a cross shape on your body while saying a prayer
Sinners: People who have done wrong things
Son: One part of the Trinity, Jesus
Temptation: The desire to do something you know is wrong
Thy kingdom come: Asking for God’s rule to be established on Earth
Thy will be done: Asking for God’s plan to happen
Virgin Mary: The mother of Jesus, who Christians believe never had any other children
Womb: The part of a mother’s body where a baby grows
Informal prayer
An informal Christian prayer is spontaneous and doesn’t follow a set script.
Quaker prayer and worship
Quakers do not have ministers (priests), set prayers, or sacraments. They believe that everyone can have a direct relationship with God without these things.
Quaker meetings often involve sitting together in silence. This quiet time allows individuals to reflect, meditate, and open their hearts to God.
During silent worship, anyone who feels moved by the Holy Spirit may speak. This is known as “ministry” and can include sharing prayers or deep thoughts.
Evangelical prayer and worship
Evangelical Christians worship in different ways:
- private prayer, speaking directly to God in your own words
- services with upbeat music like Gospel choirs
- sermons (talks based on the Bible), making it relevant to daily life
- speaking in tongues – individuals speaking in a language unknown to them, inspired by the Holy Spirit
- praying for healing, often laying on of hands to symbolise the transfer of God’s healing power
- personal testimonies, where they share their faith experiences
- evangelising, sharing the gospel and spreading the faith
Key words
Direct relationship with God: Being able to talk to and listen to God without needing a priest or special ceremony.
Evangelical Christians: A group of Protestants who focus on sharing their faith and encouraging others to follow Jesus.
Gospel choirs: Groups of singers who perform upbeat, joyful Christian music.
Holy Spirit: One part of the Trinity, like God’s helper or guide
Informal prayer: A spontaneous prayer that doesn’t follow a set script.
Laying on of hands: Gently placing hands on someone while praying for them.
Meditate: To quietly focus your mind on God or spiritual things.
Ministers: Religious leaders like priests or pastors
Ministry: Sharing prayers or thoughts inspired by the Holy Spirit
Personal testimonies: Stories people share about how their faith in Jesus has changed their lives.
Praying for healing: Asking God to make someone better from sickness or injury.
Private prayer: Talking to God by yourself, using your own words
Quaker meetings: Gatherings where Quakers sit in silence and wait for the Holy Spirit to speak through them
Quakers: A group of Protestants who believe in finding God within themselves and others. They also value peace and equality
Reflect: To think deeply about something
Sacraments: Special ceremonies in the Catholic Church, like getting baptized or married
Sermons: Talks based on the Bible, given by a pastor or preacher
Silence: Being quiet and still, without any talking
Spontaneous: Happening without being planned or prepared beforehand
Speaking in tongues: Speaking in a language that you don’t know, believed to be a gift from the Holy Spirit
Sacraments
A sacrament is a special ceremony where people receive God’s blessings and grace.
St. Augustine defined a sacrament as
An outward and visible sign of an inward and invisible grace instituted by Christ
Augustine
This means that sacraments are physical symbols that convey God’s grace that Jesus introduced.
In Roman Catholicism, there are seven sacraments:
1. Baptism: Welcoming into the Christian faith with water
2. Confirmation: Strengthening faith with anointing oil
3. Eucharist (Holy communion): Receiving Jesus’ body and blood in bread and wine
4. Confession: Confessing sins and receiving forgiveness
5. Holy orders: Becoming a deacon, priest, or bishop
6. Marriage: Marriage between a man and a woman
7. Anointing of the sick: Healing and comfort for the ill with oil
Quakers believe that all actions can be sacred and that special rituals and sacraments aren’t needed to connect with God or receive His grace.
Evangelicals often believe that faith alone is enough for grace and salvation. Additional things like sacraments aren’t needed.
Key words
Anointing: Putting special oil on someone as part of a religious ceremony.
Anointing of the sick: A special ceremony where a sick person is anointed with oil and prayed for.
Baptism: A ceremony where someone is dipped in water to show they are following Jesus.
Bishop: An important leader in the Catholic Church, like a manager of a big area
Blessing: Something good that God gives you.
Ceremony: A special event with actions and words, like a birthday party but for God
Christ: Another name for Jesus
Confession: Saying sorry to God for doing wrong things and receiving forgiveness
Connect with God: Feeling close to God and having a relationship with Him
Deacon: A helper in the church who assists the priest
Evangelicals: A group of Protestants who focus on sharing their faith and encouraging others to follow Jesus.
Eucharist (Holy Communion): A special ceremony where Catholics share bread and wine, remembering Jesus’ last meal
Faith: Believing in something, even if you can’t see it.
Grace: God’s love and forgiveness, even when we don’t deserve it.
Holy Orders: A ceremony where a man becomes a deacon, priest, or bishop
Inward and invisible grace: A special blessing from God that you can’t see but can feel inside
Marriage: A special ceremony where a man and a woman promise to love each other forever
Outward and visible sign: A physical action or object that represents something deeper, like a hug representing love
Priest: A leader in the Catholic Church who helps people connect with God
Quakers: A group of Protestants who believe in finding God within themselves and others. They also value peace and equality
Roman Catholicism: The biggest group of Christians in the world
Sacrament: A special ceremony where people receive God’s blessings and grace.
Sacred: Holy or special, connected to God
St. Augustine: An important Christian thinker from a long time ago
Salvation: Being saved or rescued from sin
Baptism
Baptism is an initiation sacrament. It marks someone’s entrance into the church. Water is to symbolise the washing away of original sin.
Infant baptism involves baptising babies, signifying God’s grace and the child’s entry into the Christian community. It is also called a ‘christening’.
Some Christians prefer alternatives like baby dedication or blessing ceremonies. These ceremonies celebrate the child’s birth and welcome them into the church. But they aren’t sacraments.
Adult baptism, also known as believer’s baptism, is performed on adults who decide to follow Christ. It shows their personal faith.
In a Roman Catholic baptism, water is poured over the head. The Trinitarian formula is said by the priest:
I baptise you in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit
Vows are made either by the parents and godparents for infants or by the individual for adults.
Renunciation of Satan:
Priest: “Do you renounce Satan?”
Response: “I do.”
Faith in God:
Priest: “Do you believe in God, the Father almighty, creator of heaven and earth?”
Response: “I do.”
Belief in Jesus:
Priest: “Do you believe in Jesus Christ, his only Son, our Lord, who was born of the Virgin Mary, suffered death and was buried, rose again from the dead, and is seated at the right hand of the Father?”
Response: “I do.
A person being baptised usually wears white clothes. This is a symbol of the washing away of original sin.
Baptisms usually take place in a church, with infants baptised at a special baptismal font and adults in a baptismal pool, except in emergencies. But baptisms can take place elsewhere e.g. lakes, rivers, and even swimming pools.
Baptist Church Christians don’t believe in infant baptism. They think baptism should be a personal choice made by someone old enough to understand the vows.
Baptist Church adult baptisms involve full immersion in water to symbolise the washing away of original sins and rebirth in Christ. This act represents being “born again” (the believer rises from the water like Jesus rose from the dead). Baptists often share their personal testimony to declare their new life in Jesus.
Many Christians are baptised because Jesus himself was baptised in the Jordan River.
During the baptism, the heavens opened, and the Holy Spirit descended on Jesus like a dove. A voice from heaven, the Father, said
This is My beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased
Matthew 3:17
Baptism is important for Christians because it
- symbolises the washing away of original sin, inherited from Adam and Eve
- marks a new beginning in Christ: the person is born again
- brings them closer to God, as a sacrament that imparts God’s grace
- welcomes them into the Christian community
Key words
Adult baptism: Being baptized (dipped in water) as a grown-up, not as a baby.
Baptismal font: A special bowl or pool in a church used for baptisms.
Baptismal pool: A larger pool used for baptisms, especially for adults.
Baptist Church: A group of Protestants who believe in adult baptism
Baptism: A ceremony where someone is dipped in water to show they are following Jesus
Believer’s baptism: Another name for adult baptism
Born again: Starting a new life as a Christian, like being born all over again but spiritually
Christ: Another name for Jesus
Christening: Another name for infant baptism
Church: A building where Christians meet and worship
Community: A group of people who share something in common, like beliefs or interests
Confessing sins: Saying sorry to God for doing wrong things
Dove: A bird that represents peace and the Holy Spirit
Emergencies: Unexpected and dangerous situations
Father: One part of the Trinity, like God the Dad
Forgive: To let go of anger or hurt feelings towards someone who has wronged you
Full immersion: Going completely underwater during baptism
Godparents: Special adults who promise to help a child grow in their faith
Grace: God’s love and forgiveness, even when we don’t deserve it
Heavens opened: The sky seemed to open up, showing something amazing was happening
Holy Spirit: One part of the Trinity, like God’s helper or guide
Infant baptism: Baptizing babies
Initiation sacrament: A special ceremony that welcomes someone into the Christian faith
Jesus: The most important person in Christianity, believed to be the Son of God
Jordan River: The river where Jesus was baptized
Matthew 3:17: A verse in the Bible where God speaks at Jesus’ baptism
Original sin: The first sin committed by Adam and Eve, which all humans are said to inherit
Personal choice: A decision you make for yourself
Personal testimony: A story someone shares about how their faith in Jesus has changed their lives
Pour: To make a liquid flow out of a container
Priest: A leader in the Catholic Church who helps people connect with God
Renounce Satan: To reject or turn away from evil
Sacrament: A special ceremony where people receive God’s blessings and grace
Sin: Doing something wrong
Son: One part of the Trinity, Jesus
Symbolise: To represent or stand for something else
Trinity: The idea that God is three in one: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit
Trinitarian formula: Special words said during baptism: “I baptize you in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit”
Vows: Serious promises
Washing away: Cleaning or removing something
Water: A clear liquid used for baptism to represent cleansing and new life
Well pleased: Very happy and satisfied
White clothes: Clothing worn during baptism to represent purity and a new beginning
Eucharist
The Eucharist, or Holy Communion, is the central sacrament in the Roman Catholic Church. It commemorates the Last Supper, Jesus’ last meal before his death. Jesus shared bread and wine with his disciples, saying, “This is my body” and “This is my blood”.
Luke 22:19-20 recounts Jesus taking bread, giving thanks, breaking it, and saying,
“This is My body which is given for you; do this in remembrance of Me.” Likewise He also took the cup after supper, saying, “This cup is the new covenant in My blood, which is shed for you”
22:19-20
In Matthew 26:26-29, during the Last Supper, Jesus says, ‘This is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins’ indicating that His sacrifice would bring forgiveness and salvation.
Roman Catholics celebrated the Eucharist during Mass. The priest consecrates (blesses) bread and wine, transforming them into the body and blood of Christ. This is called transubstantiation. This symbolises Jesus’ sacrifice and provides spiritual food.
Most Evangelicals see the Eucharist as merely a reminder of Jesus’ Last Supper. They don’t think it imparts divine grace.
Quakers don’t celebrate the Eucharist. They believe that all rituals, including the sacraments, can distract from a direct, personal experience of God.
A Eucharist service in the Roman Catholic Church follows a set liturgy:
| Presentation of the Gifts and Preparation of the Altar | The bread and wine are brought to the altar (a special table in the church). |
| Prayer over the Offerings | The priest blesses and praises God for the bread and wine. |
| Eucharistic Prayer | Prayers are said. The priest consecrates (blesses) the bread and wine, which become the body and blood of Christ. |
| The Lord’s Prayer | People recites the Lord’s Prayer together |
| Sign of Peace | They usually shake hands or hug as a sign of peace. |
| Lamb of God Prayer | They say the “Lamb of God” prayer. |
| Communion | They receive the consecrated bread and wine. |
| Prayer after Communion | The priest leads a final prayer of thanksgiving. |
The Eucharist is crucial to Christians for three main reasons:
- Commemoration of Jesus’ Last Supper: It serves as a remembrance of Jesus’ final meal with his disciples.
- Symbol of sacrifice: It represents Jesus’ sacrifice for humanity.
- Unity with Christ and each Other: It unites believers with Christ and fosters a sense of community among them.
Additionally, the Eucharist provides spiritual nourishment, sustaining and strengthening a person’s spiritual life, much like food nourishes the body.
By receiving the Eucharist, believers are united with Christ, receive his grace, and are empowered to live a life of love and service.
Key words
Altar: A special table in a church where important ceremonies happen.
Blesses: To ask God to take care of someone or something, or to make something holy.
Body and blood of Christ: The bread and wine that Catholics believe become Jesus’ body and blood during the Eucharist
Celebrated: To do something special to mark an important event
Commemorates: To remember and honor something important
Communion: Another name for the Eucharist
Consecrates: To make something holy or set apart for God’s use
Crucial: Very important
Disciples: Jesus’ followers and friends
Divine grace: God’s special love and forgiveness that helps people
Empowered: Given strength or ability to do something
Evangelicals: A group of Protestants who focus on sharing their faith and encouraging others to follow Jesus
Eucharist (Holy Communion): A special ceremony where Catholics share bread and wine, remembering Jesus’ last meal
Final prayer: A prayer said at the end of a service
Fosters: Helps something grow and develop
Grace: God’s love and forgiveness, even when we don’t deserve it
Holy Spirit: One part of the Trinity, like God’s helper or guide
Jesus: The most important person in Christianity, believed to be the Son of God
Lamb of God prayer: A prayer said during the Eucharist
Last Supper: The final meal Jesus shared with his disciples
Liturgy: A set order of prayers and actions used in a church service
Lord’s Prayer: A special prayer that Jesus taught his followers
Luke 22:19-20: Verses in the Bible where Jesus shares bread and wine with his disciples at the Last Supper
Mass: The central act of worship in the Catholic Church
Nourishment: Food or something that gives you strength and energy
Priests: Leaders in the Catholic Church who help people connect with God
Quakers: A group of Protestants who believe in finding God within themselves and others. They also value peace and equality.
Receive: To get or accept something
Remembrance: Remembering or honoring someone or something
Roman Catholic Church: The biggest group of Christians in the world
Sacrament: A special ceremony where people receive God’s blessings and grace
Sacrifice: Giving up something valuable for a greater purpose
Sense of community: Feeling connected to and supported by a group of people
Sign of Peace: A gesture of friendship and forgiveness during the Eucharist
Spiritual food: Something that nourishes your soul and helps you grow closer to God
Spiritual life: Your relationship with God and your beliefs
Sustaining: Keeping something going or alive
Symbolises: Represents or stands for something else
Thanksgiving: Thanking God for the good things in your life
Transubstantiation: The Catholic belief that the bread and wine become the actual body and blood of Christ during the Eucharist
Unites: Brings people or things together
Pilgrimage
A pilgrimage is a special trip to a holy place.
Some Christians go on pilgrimage to Walsingham and Taizé.
- Walsingham is holy place in England.
- Taizé is a holy place in France.
Christians can go on a pilgrimage to other places too. Many visit Jerusalem and Israel the holy land where Jesus was crucified and resurrected.
Key words
Crucified: Killed on a cross
Holy land: A special place that is important to a religion
Holy place: A location that is considered sacred or special because of its connection to God or a religious figure.
Jerusalem: A holy city for Jews, Christians, and Muslims
Pilgrimage: A special journey to a holy place
Resurrected: Came back to life after dying
Taizé: A holy place in France where Christians go on pilgrimage
Walsingham: A holy place in England where Christians go on pilgrimage
Walsingham
Pilgrims worship by praying at the Holy House and attending Holy Communion and other services.
Traditions include walking barefoot as a penance (confession), participating in the Stations of the Cross with meditative prayer at different stations, and the Sprinkling at the Well ceremony
Community: pilgrims join in ecumenical worship with different Christian denominations and travel in pilgrimage groups for a shared experience.
Culturally, they visit historical sites like the medieval priory ruins.
Walsingham is important for many Christians.
It shows devotion to Mary through the Holy House, a replica of the house where the Annunciation happened (where the angel Gabriel told Mary that she would give birth to Jesus). The statue of Our Lady of Walsingham is also significant for prayer and seeking Mary’s help.
It promotes (ecumenical) unity among Christians by bringing together people from different denominations for worship and events.
It is a place of spiritual healing, where pilgrims participate in rituals like the Sprinkling at the Well ceremony.
Key words
Annunciation: The time when an angel told Mary she would have baby Jesus
Barefoot: Walking without shoes on
Ceremony: A special event with actions and words, like a birthday party but for God
Community: A group of people who share something in common, like beliefs or interests
Confession: Saying sorry to God for doing wrong things
Culturally: Related to the history, art, and traditions of a group of people
Denominations: Fancy word for different types of Christian groups
Devotion: Showing deep love and loyalty to someone or something
Ecumenical: When different Christian groups come together
Eucharist (Holy Communion): A special ceremony where Catholics share bread and wine, remembering Jesus’ last meal
Gabriel: The angel who told Mary about Jesus’ birth
Healing: Getting better from sickness or injury, can be physical or emotional
Historical sites: Places that are important because of things that happened there in the past
Holy Communion: Another name for the Eucharist
Holy House: A copy of the house where Mary lived when she was told she would have Jesus
Jesus: The most important person in Christianity, believed to be the Son of God
Mary: The mother of Jesus
Meditative prayer: Praying quietly and thoughtfully
Medieval priory ruins: The remains of an old religious building from hundreds of years ago
Our Lady of Walsingham: A special statue of Mary that people pray to
Penance: Something you do to show you’re sorry for your sins
Pilgrimage: A special journey to a holy place
Pilgrims: People who go on a pilgrimage
Praying: Talking to God
Promote: To encourage or support something
Replica: A copy of something
Rituals: Special actions or ceremonies that are part of a religion
Services: Church gatherings where people worship
Spiritual: Connected to your soul or beliefs, not just your body
Sprinkling at the Well ceremony: A special ritual at Walsingham where people are sprinkled with holy water
Stations of the Cross: A series of images or places that represent the events leading up to Jesus’ crucifixion. People pray and reflect at each station.
Unity: When people or groups come together and work together
Walsingham: A holy place in England where Christians go on pilgrimage
Taizé
At Taizé, Christians do various things, especially young people.
In worship, they pray three times a day, sing simple, repetitive chants for meditation, participate in candlelit prayer services, and spend time in silent reflection.
For study, they join large group Bible studies, engage in small group discussions about faith, attend workshops on topics like social justice, and reflect on personal spiritual growth.
In the community, they work together on communal tasks, share meals and experiences, participate in fun activities like sports, and join in evening gatherings.
They meet the Brothers (monks) to learn about their way of life, visit the Church of Reconciliation, which was built to symbolize unity and peace, and explore the history of the Taizé community.
Taizé promotes unity bringing together Christians from different denominations, from different countries. It promotes peace through prayer, reflection, and fellowship. There is a strong sense of community at Taizé, where people work, share meals, and spend time together.
It also promotes the spiritual growth of individuals through its unique worship. It deepens people’s knowledge and faith through study, discussions, and reflection.
Taizé engages young people, typically aged 18 to 30. This helps them develop their faith, community, and values. It fosters unity and peace among young people from diverse backgrounds, building a more harmonious future.
Key words
Bible studies: Group sessions where people read and discuss the Bible
Brothers (monks): Men who live a simple, religious life at Taizé
Candlelit prayer services: Special prayer times with candles, creating a peaceful atmosphere
Chants: Simple, repetitive songs used for prayer and meditation
Church of Reconciliation: A special church at Taizé that represents unity and peace
Communal tasks: Jobs or chores that everyone helps with, like cleaning or cooking
Community: A group of people who share something in common, like beliefs or interests
Denominations: Fancy word for different types of Christian groups
Discussions: Talking about something with other people, sharing ideas and opinions
Diverse backgrounds: Coming from different places, cultures, or experiences
Engage: To participate in or get involved with something
Evening gatherings: Fun events or activities that happen at night
Faith: Believing in something, even if you can’t see it
Fellowship: Spending time together and building friendships
Fosters: Helps something grow and develop
Harmonious: Peaceful and getting along well with others
Meditation: Quietly focusing your mind on God or spiritual things
Peace: When there is no fighting or war, and everyone gets along
Pilgrimage: A special journey to a holy place
Promote: To encourage or support something
Reflection: Thinking deeply about something
Services: Church gatherings where people worship
Silent reflection: Quietly thinking about your thoughts and feelings
Social justice: Working to make the world fair and equal for everyone
Spiritual growth: Growing stronger in your faith and relationship with God
Study: Learning about something
Taizé: A holy place in France where Christians go on pilgrimage
Unity: When people or groups come together and work together
Values: The things that you believe are important in life
Workshops: Group sessions where people learn new skills or ideas
Worship: Showing love and devotion to God
Young people: People who are teenagers or in their early twenties
Festivals
A religious festival is a special celebration. It normally commemorates (remembers) an important event in a religion.
Christmas is a Christian festival celebrating Jesus’ birth.
Easter is a Christian festival celebrating Jesus rising from the dead.
There are other festivals in Christianity too. For example, Roman Catholic Christians celebrate All Saints’ Day on 1st November to honour the saints who have gone to heaven.
Key words
All Saints’ Day: A special day for Catholics to remember all the holy people who have died.
Celebrate: To do something special to mark an important event
Christian: A big group of people who believe in Jesus
Christmas: A Christian festival celebrating Jesus’ birth
Commemorates: To remember and honor something important
Easter: A Christian festival celebrating Jesus rising from the dead
Festival: A special celebration
Heaven: A wonderful place where God lives and where good people go after they die
Holy: Special or sacred, connected to God
Jesus: The most important person in Christianity, believed to be the Son of God
November 1st: The date when Catholics celebrate All Saints’ Day
Religious festival: A special celebration connected to a religion
Resurrection: Jesus rising from the dead after being crucified
Saints: People who lived very holy lives and are now in heaven
Christmas
Christmas is celebrated differently around the world. Many Christians attend church services and do nativity plays. Common customs include decorating Christmas trees, exchanging gifts, and eating festive meals with family and friends. Many also enjoy singing Christmas carols, sending holiday cards, and putting up lights and other decorations. In some cultures, Santa Claus brings gifts to children. Santa was originally Saint Nicholas, a 4th-century Christian known for his generosity and secret gift-giving.
Roman Catholics do Advent, the four weeks leading up to Christmas, with special prayers and the lighting of Advent candles. A key tradition is attending Midnight Mass on Christmas Eve. Catholics also set up nativity scenes in their homes and churches. Christmas for Catholics lasts until the Feast of the Epiphany on January 6th, which remembers the magi (wise men).
Christmas is important in Christianity because it celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ, who is central to the Christian faith and believed to be the saviour.
It also reminds Christians of God’s love for the world, shown through Jesus’ birth. John 1:14 states
The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us
John 1:14
This shows God’s willingness to be with humanity, an act of grace to save humans from sin.
Additionally, Christmas is a time for Christians to renew their faith: it inspires them to reflect on the teachings of Jesus.
Key words
Advent: The four weeks before Christmas when Christians prepare for Jesus’ birth.
Advent candles: Special candles lit one by one during Advent.
Carols: Special songs sung at Christmas to celebrate Jesus’ birth.
Central: The most important part
Christmas: A Christian festival celebrating Jesus’ birth
Christmas Eve: The night before Christmas Day
Church services: Special gatherings at church to worship and celebrate
Customs: Traditional ways of doing things
Decorating Christmas trees: Putting ornaments and lights on a tree for Christmas
Dwelling: A place to live
Epiphany: A special day in January when Christians remember the wise men visiting baby Jesus
Exchanging gifts: Giving presents to each other
Faith: Believing in something, even if you can’t see it
Festive meals: Special meals eaten during celebrations
Flesh: A human body
Generosity: Being kind and willing to share
God: The supreme being in Christianity who created and rules over everything
Grace: God’s love and forgiveness, even when we don’t deserve it
Holiday cards: Special cards sent to friends and family at Christmas
Holy: Special or sacred, connected to God
Humanity: All the people in the world
Jesus Christ: The most important person in Christianity, believed to be the Son of God
John 1:14: A verse in the Bible that says Jesus (the Word) became human
Magi (wise men): Wise men who followed a star to find baby Jesus and bring him gifts
Midnight Mass: A special church service held at midnight on Christmas Eve
Ministry: The time Jesus spent teaching and healing people
Nativity plays: Plays that tell the story of Jesus’ birth
Nativity scenes: Displays showing the scene of Jesus’ birth, with Mary, Joseph, baby Jesus, and animals
Reflect: To think deeply about something
Renew: To make something fresh or strong again
Roman Catholics: The biggest group of Christians in the world
Saint Nicholas: A kind Christian from long ago who gave gifts to people in secret. He’s the inspiration for Santa Claus
Santa Claus: A jolly figure who brings gifts to children at Christmas
Saviour: Someone who saves others
Sin: Doing something wrong
Teachings: The things that Jesus said and did to show people how to live
The Word: A special name for Jesus in the Bible, showing he’s important and powerful
Easter
Christians celebrate Easter by attending special church services about the resurrection of Jesus Christ. These services often include joyful hymns (songs), prayers, and readings from the Bible. Many Christians also participate in Easter egg hunts, share festive meals, and spend time with family and friends. Holy Week, the week leading up to Easter, includes significant days like Palm Sunday, which commemorates Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem, and Good Friday, which marks his crucifixion.
Roman Catholics begin their Easter with Lent, a 40-day period of fasting, prayer, and penance (showing repentance). Holy Week is particularly important, starting with Palm Sunday and including the Triduum: Holy Thursday, which commemorates the Last Supper; Good Friday, which remembers Jesus’ crucifixion; and Holy Saturday. The Easter Vigil on Holy Saturday night is a central celebration, featuring the lighting of the Paschal Candle, readings from Scripture, and the sacraments of initiation (baptism and confirmation) for new members. Easter Sunday Mass is a joyful celebration of the Resurrection, often accompanied by special hymns and the ringing of church bells.
Easter is important because it marks Jesus Christ’s resurrection, which is the cornerstone of Christian faith. This event signifies Jesus’ victory over death and sin, offering believers the hope of eternal life. The resurrection, for many Christians, proves that Jesus was God and the saviour of humankind.
Key words
Baptism: A ceremony where someone is dipped in water to show they are following Jesus
Believer: Someone who has faith in Jesus
Celebration: A happy event to mark something special
Christ: Another name for Jesus
Christian: A big group of people who believe in Jesus
Church bells: Large bells in a church tower that are rung on special occasions
Church services: Special gatherings at church to worship and celebrate
Commemorates: To remember and honor something important
Confirmation: A ceremony where a baptized person confirms their faith and receives the Holy Spirit
Cornerstone: The most important part of something, like the foundation of a building
Crucifixion: Being killed by being nailed to a cross
Death: The end of life
Easter: A Christian festival celebrating Jesus rising from the dead
Easter egg hunts: A fun activity where people search for hidden eggs
Easter Sunday Mass: A special church service on Easter Sunday to celebrate Jesus’ resurrection
Easter Vigil: A special church service on the night before Easter Sunday
Eternal life: Living forever with God in heaven after you die
Faith: Believing in something, even if you can’t see it
Fasting: Not eating food for a period of time, often for religious reasons
Festive meals: Special meals eaten during celebrations
Good Friday: The day when Christians remember Jesus’ crucifixion
Holy Saturday: The day between Good Friday and Easter Sunday
Holy Spirit: One part of the Trinity, like God’s helper or guide
Holy Thursday: The day when Christians remember the Last Supper
Holy Week: The week leading up to Easter, with special days like Palm Sunday and Good Friday
Hope: A feeling of expectation and desire for something good to happen
Hymns: Special songs sung in church to praise God
Jesus Christ: The most important person in Christianity, believed to be the Son of God
Last Supper: The final meal Jesus shared with his disciples
Lent: A 40-day period before Easter when Christians focus on prayer and sacrifice
Palm Sunday: The day when Christians remember Jesus entering Jerusalem on a donkey
Paschal Candle: A special candle lit during the Easter Vigil
Penance: Something you do to show you’re sorry for your sins
Prayer: Talking and listening to God
Readings from the Bible: Passages from the Bible that are read aloud during church services
Reflect: To think deeply about something
Repentance: Feeling sorry for doing something wrong and wanting to change
Resurrection: Jesus rising from the dead after being crucified
Roman Catholics: The biggest group of Christians in the world
Sacraments of initiation: Special ceremonies that welcome new members into the church, like baptism and confirmation
Saviour: Someone who saves others
Scripture: The Bible, the holy book of Christians
Sin: Doing something wrong
Special hymns: Songs sung in church specifically for Easter
Triduum: The three days of Holy Thursday, Good Friday, and Holy Saturday
Victory over death: Jesus’ resurrection showing that He is stronger than death
The church
In a church, three main types of activity take place.
Worship includes regular services with hymns, prayers, and sermons, as well as rites of passage like christenings (baptisms), weddings, and funerals, which mark significant life events.
In a Roman Catholic church, mass is the central act of worship. Mass includes the Eucharist (Holy Communion), as well as prayers, hymns, readings from the Bible, and a homily (sermon or talk).
Education involves Bible study groups, Sunday school for children, and other educational programs that deepen understanding of the faith.
In Roman Catholic church, education includes catechism classes: lessons that about Catholic faith to children and adults.
Community activities encompass fellowship events, such as coffee meetings, community service projects, charity work, and support groups, fostering a sense of belonging and mutual support among members.
Some churches nearby
- St. Patrick’s Church (Red Hill, Chislehurst)
- St. George’s Church (Bickley Park Road, Bickley) – a mix of Church of England and Roman Catholicism
- Christ Church Chislehurst (Lubbock Road, Chislehurst) Church of England
- Bromley Baptist Church (Park Road, Bromley)
- Bromley Quaker Meeting House (Ravensbourne Rd, Bromley)
- BCC (Masons Hill, Bromley), which could be called an Evangelical church
Bromley council provide a full list
Key words
Baptism: A ceremony where someone is dipped in water to show they are following Jesus
Belonging: Feeling like you are part of a group and are accepted
Bible study groups: Groups of people who meet to read and discuss the Bible together.
Catechism classes: Lessons about the Catholic faith for children and adults
Charity work: Helping people in need, like volunteering at a soup kitchen or donating clothes
Christenings: Another name for infant baptism
Community: A group of people who share something in common, like beliefs or interests
Community service projects: Activities that help the local community, like cleaning up a park or visiting elderly people
Education: Learning and gaining knowledge
Eucharist (Holy Communion): A special ceremony where Catholics share bread and wine, remembering Jesus’ last meal
Faith: Believing in something, even if you can’t see it
Fellowship events: Gatherings where people can relax, chat, and get to know each other
Funerals: Ceremonies to remember and honor someone who has died
Homily: A talk given by a priest during Mass, explaining the Bible readings or offering guidance
Hymns: Special songs sung in church to praise God
Mass: The central act of worship in the Catholic Church
Mutual support: Helping and encouraging each other
Prayers: Talking to God
Regular services: Church gatherings that happen often, usually on Sundays
Rites of passage: Special ceremonies that mark important life events, like birth, marriage, and death
Roman Catholic Church: The biggest group of Christians in the world
Sermons: Talks based on the Bible, given by a pastor or preacher
Significant life events: Important moments in someone’s life, like getting married or having a baby
Sunday school: Classes for children at church where they learn about the Bible and their faith
Support groups: Groups where people with similar challenges or experiences can come together and help each other
Weddings: Ceremonies where two people get married
Worship: Showing love and devotion to God
Christianity in Britain
A census is a count of people and their beliefs. In the UK, a census is done every ten years.
Christianity: The number of Christians in the UK has dropped a lot, from 72% in 2001 to 46% in 2021. This shows that fewer people are following traditional Christian beliefs.
No religion: More people are saying they have no religion. In 2001, 15% of people said they had no religion, and by 2021, this number grew to 37%. This means more people are moving away from religion.
Islam: The percentage of people identifying as Muslim has increased from 3% in 2001 to 6% in 2021. This growth reflects the increasing presence and influence of the Muslim community in the UK.
Other religions: The percentage of people following other religions like Hinduism, Sikhism, Judaism, and Buddhism has increased slightly, from 2% in 2001 to 3% in 2021. This shows that the UK is becoming more religiously diverse.
Key words
Census: The official count of a population, including information about their characteristics like religion
Christian: Someone who believes in Jesus
Christianity: The religion based on the teachings of Jesus
Islam: A major religion based on the Qur’an and the teachings of the prophet Muhammad
Muslim: A follower of Islam
No religion: People who do not identify with any particular religion
Religion: A set of beliefs about God or the world
Trend: A general direction in which something is changing or developing
Is the UK a Christian country?
Some people think that the UK is a Christian country.
They say that Christianity has been the main religion in the UK for centuries, shaping its culture, laws, and traditions.
They also say that major Christian holidays like Christmas and Easter are public holidays, reflecting the country’s Christian heritage.
Additionally, they say that Anglicanism (the Church of England) is the state church. The king is its head. This highlights the official role of Christianity.
Others disagree and say that the UK is home to many different religions, including Islam, Hinduism, Sikhism, and Judaism, reflecting a multifaith society.
They also say that a growing number of people identify as having no religion, with 37% of people saying they have no religion in 2021. The UK is becoming atheist and increasingly secular (secularisation).
Further, they note that the UK has laws that support religious freedom and equality, ensuring that all religions and beliefs are protected.
Key words
Anglicanism (the Church of England): The official church of England, kind of like the main team for Christians in that country.
Atheist: Someone who doesn’t believe in God
Christian: Someone who believes in Jesus
Christianity: The religion based on the teachings of Jesus
Culture: The way people live, their beliefs, art, and traditions
Easter: A Christian holiday celebrating Jesus rising from the dead
Heritage: The traditions and history passed down from ancestors
Hinduism: A major religion from India with many gods and goddesses
Islam: A major religion based on the teachings of the prophet Muhammad
Judaism: The religion of the Jewish people, based on the Old Testament of the Bible
Laws: Rules that everyone in a country has to follow
Multifaith society: A place where people of many different religions live together
Public holidays: Special days when people don’t have to go to school or work
Religion: A set of beliefs about God or the world
Religious freedom: The right to practice any religion you choose or none at all
Secular: Not connected to any religion
Secularisation: When religion becomes less important in society
Sikhism: A religion from India that emphasizes equality and service to others
State church: The official church of a country, supported by the government
Traditions: Customs or beliefs passed down from generation to generation
UK: Short for United Kingdom, a country that includes England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland
Persecution of Christians worldwide
Christians have been persecuted throughout history and continue to be today. Persecution means treating someone cruelly, often because of their religion.
In the first few centuries after Jesus died, Christians were persecuted by the Roman Empire. They were often blamed for natural disasters and accused of disloyalty to the state. Many were martyred, including Peter, who was crucified upside down because he felt unworthy to die in the same manner as Jesus.
During World War I, the Ottoman Empire targeted Armenian Christians in what is now known as the Armenian Genocide (1915-1923). Over a million Armenians were killed to eliminate the Christian population.
Today, North Korea is one of the most dangerous places for Christians. Being Christian is illegal, and those caught can face severe punishment, including imprisonment in labour camps or even execution. Owning a Bible is considered a serious crime.
Key words
Accused: When someone says you did something wrong, even if you didn’t
Armenian Genocide: A terrible event where over a million Armenian Christians were killed because of their beliefs.
Christian: Someone who believes in Jesus
Crucified: A very cruel way of killing someone by nailing them to a cross
Disloyalty: Not being faithful or true to your country or leader
Eliminate: To get rid of something completely
Execution: Killing someone as a punishment for a crime
Illegal: Against the law, something you’re not allowed to do
Imprisonment: Being locked up in jail or prison
Labour camps: Places where people are forced to work very hard in terrible conditions
Martyred: Killed because of your beliefs
Natural disasters: Events like earthquakes, floods, or hurricanes that cause a lot of damage
North Korea: A country where it’s very dangerous to be a Christian
Ottoman Empire: A large empire that existed hundreds of years ago and included the area that is now Turkey
Persecution: Treating someone cruelly or unfairly because of their beliefs
Peter: One of Jesus’ closest followers
Religion: A set of beliefs about God or the world
Roman Empire: A large empire that existed thousands of years ago and included the area that is now Italy
Severe punishment: Very harsh or strict consequences for doing something wrong
State: The government or country
Targeted: To pick someone out for special attention, often in a negative way
World War I: A big war that happened over 100 years ago and involved many countries
Evangelism
Evangelism means spreading the Christian gospel by public preaching.
It involves sharing the message of Jesus Christ (the gospel) with others, aiming to bring (convert) them to Christianity.
Evangelism allows Christians to share the hope and salvation they have found in Jesus, helping others to experience a powerful relationship with God.
It is crucial because it fulfils Jesus’ command to His followers to spread the gospel.
At his ascension, Jesus said to his disciples (followers)
Go into all the world and preach the gospel to all creation.
Mark 16:15
This verse, called the Great Commission, shows that evangelism is a direct command from Jesus
An Evangelical Christian is someone shares the “good news” (the gospel) of Jesus Christ. Evangelicals believe in personal conversion, often referred to as being “born again,”. The believe the Bible is the ultimate authority.
The term “evangelical” comes from the Greek word euangelion, meaning “good news” or “gospel”.
Evangelicals can evangelise in different ways:
- Pray for others by name.
- Share personal stories of faith.
- Extend personal invitations to church events.
- Use social media to share the gospel.
- Distribute literature like Bibles.
- Engage in community service and outreach.
- Be bold in conversations about faith.
- Live out Christian values as a witness.
- Join or support missionary work.
Key words
Ascension: When Jesus went up to heaven after he rose from the dead.
Bible: The holy book for Christians, full of stories and teachings.
Born again: A special experience where someone feels like they’ve started a new life with Jesus
Christian: Someone who believes in Jesus
Community service: Helping others in your neighborhood or town, like volunteering at a soup kitchen or cleaning up a park
Convert: To change someone’s beliefs or way of thinking, often to adopt a new religion
Disciples: Followers or students of Jesus, like being on his team
Evangelical Christian: A Christian who is really excited to share the good news about Jesus with others
Evangelism: Sharing the good news about Jesus with others, like telling them an exciting secret
Faith: What you believe in, deep down in your heart
Gospel: The good news about Jesus and his teachings
Great Commission: Jesus’ instructions to his followers to go and tell everyone about him
Jesus Christ: The central figure of Christianity, believed to be the Son of God
Missionary work: Traveling to different places to share your faith and help people in need
Outreach: Reaching out to others, especially those who might need help or support
Preaching: Talking about your faith in front of a group of people, like giving a speech
Salvation: Being rescued or saved from something bad, like being rescued from a burning building. Christians believe Jesus saves them from sin.
Sharing your faith: Talking to others about what you believe and why it’s important to you.
Social media: Websites and apps where people can connect and share information, like Facebook or Instagram
Witness: Someone who tells others about what they have seen or experienced. Christians try to be witnesses for Jesus by living good lives and sharing their faith.
Missionary work
Missionary work involves spreading your faith and helping people in need, usually in poor countries. Christians do this through evangelism, education, healthcare, and humanitarian aid.
They follows Jesus’ command to his disciples, which is called the Great Commission:
Go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you
Matthew 28:19-20
Dr. Paul Brand was a missionary doctor who treated leprosy patients in India. His work in reconstructive surgery not only improved their health but also restored their dignity and hope.
Key words
Baptising: A special ceremony where someone becomes a Christian, like joining a club.
Disciples: Followers or students of Jesus, like being on his team.
Evangelism: Sharing the good news about Jesus with others, like telling them an exciting secret
Faith: What you believe in, deep down in your heart
Great Commission: Jesus’ instructions to his followers to go and tell everyone about him.
Healthcare: Helping people stay healthy and get better when they’re sick, like doctors and nurses do.
Humanitarian aid: Helping people in need, like giving food and water after a disaster.
Leprosy: A disease that can cause skin problems and nerve damage
Missionary work: Traveling to different places to share your faith and help people in need
Reconstructive surgery: A type of surgery that helps fix or rebuild parts of the body.
Spreading: Sharing something with others, like telling a funny story to your friends.
Church growth
Church growth refers to the increase in the number of church members.
It also includes building more churches to increase the number of people who go to church.
Church growth is crucial for many Christians because it reflects the church’s ability to spreading the gospel and convert people.
Key words
Church growth: When more people join a church or more churches are built.
Convert: To change someone’s beliefs or way of thinking, often to adopt a new religion.
Gospel: The good news about Jesus and his teachings
Spreading: Sharing something with others, like telling a funny story to your friends.
Tearfund
Tearfund is a Christian charity that works in over 50 of the world’s poorest countries. They help people by providing emergency aid during disasters, supporting long-term community projects, and working to change unfair policies that keep people in poverty.
Their work includes giving food and shelter to those affected by natural disasters, helping communities build schools and clean water systems, and teaching people new skills to improve their lives. They also speak out to governments and organizations to make sure the needs of poor communities are heard and addressed.
The Christian dimension of Tearfund’s work is very important. They follow Jesus’ example of helping others and work closely with local churches to deliver aid and support. Their actions are guided by Christian values of love (agape), justice, and hope.
They engage in missionary work by leading projects in poor countries that people can volunteer to participate in.
Christians can share the gospel (evangelism) with practical acts of service.
Tearfund supports church growth by giving local churches resources and training.
Tearfund promotes ecumenism by partnering with different Christian denominations to tackle global issues together.
Key words
Agape: A Greek word for unconditional love, the kind of love God has for us
Charity: An organization that helps people in need
Christian: Someone who believes in Jesus
Churches: Special buildings where Christians go to pray and learn.
Community projects: Activities that help improve the lives of people in a particular area
Denominations: Different branches or groups within Christianity, like different teams on the same sports field
Disasters: Sudden events that cause a lot of damage or harm, like earthquakes or floods
Ecumenism: Different Christian churches working together and being friends.
Emergency aid: Immediate help given to people in crisis situations
Evangelism: Telling others about Jesus and inviting them to join.
Gospel: The good news about Jesus and his teachings
Jesus: The central figure of Christianity, believed to be the Son of God
Long-term: Happening over a long period, not just for a short time
Missionary work: Traveling to different places to share the Christian faith and help people in need
Policies: Rules or plans made by governments or organizations
Poverty: The state of being very poor and not having enough money or resources to live a good life
Shelter: A place to live that protects people from the weather and other dangers
Tearfund: A Christian charity that helps people in poor countries
Training: Teaching people new skills or knowledge
Unfair: Not treating everyone equally or justly
Values: Beliefs about what is important and right
Volunteer: To offer to do something without being paid
Reconciliation
Throughout history and even today, there have been (violent) conflicts between different Christian groups.
F example, during the Reformation (16th century), there were serious disagreements between Catholics and Protestants, leading to wars and persecution.
Today, there are still tensions in some places, like between different Christian churches in Northern Ireland.
Reconciliation means making peace and restoring friendly relationships.
When Christians reconcile, they work to understand each other better and find common ground. This helps to heal old wounds. Christians can then work together to spread love, which is at the heart of their faith.
Key words
Catholics: Members of the Roman Catholic Church
Christians: People who believe in Jesus
Common ground: Shared beliefs or interests that can bring people together
Conflicts: Disagreements or fights
Faith: What you believe in, deep down in your heart
Heal: To make something better or whole again, like fixing a broken toy
Northern Ireland: A part of the United Kingdom where there have been tensions between different Christian groups
Persecution: Treating someone unfairly or cruelly because of their beliefs
Protestants: A large group of Christian churches that are separate from the Roman Catholic Church
Reconciliation: Making peace and becoming friends again after a disagreement or fight
Reformation: A time in history when there were big changes in the Christian church, leading to the creation of Protestant churches
Tensions: Feelings of unease or conflict between people or groups
Violent: Using force to hurt or harm someone or something
Wounds: Injuries or emotional pain caused by conflict or disagreement
Ecumenism
Ecumenism is the effort to promote unity, peace, and cooperation among different Christian churches.
It encourages churches to work together while respecting their unique traditions.
The movement involves joint activities like humanitarian aid, social justice work, shared worship services, and education about each other’s beliefs.
Taizé brings together Catholic and Protestant monks and pilgrims from different Christian traditions for prayer and meditation.
Walsingham shrines and pilgrimage sites for different denominations, including Church of England, Roman Catholic, and Methodist Christians.
Key words
Christian: Someone who believes in Jesus
Churches: Special buildings where Christians go to pray and learn.
Cooperation: Working together to achieve a common goal.
Denominations: Different branches or groups within Christianity, like different teams on the same sports field
Ecumenism: Different Christian churches working together and being friends.
Humanitarian aid: Helping people in need, like giving food and water after a disaster.
Meditation: Quietly focusing your mind to find peace and inner calm
Monks: People who dedicate their lives to prayer and service, often living in a community
Pilgrimage: A journey to a holy place for religious reasons
Pilgrims: People who go on a pilgrimage
Protestant: A large group of Christian churches that are separate from the Roman Catholic Church: The biggest Christian church in the world
Shrines: Holy places dedicated to a particular saint or religious figure
Social justice: Making sure everyone has the same opportunities
Taizé: A community in France where people from different Christian traditions come together for prayer and meditation
Traditions: Customs or beliefs passed down from generation to generation
Unity: Coming together as one, like pieces of a puzzle fitting perfectly
Walsingham: A village in England with shrines and pilgrimage sites for different Christian denominations
Worship services: Gatherings where Christians pray, sing, and learn about their faith
World Council of Churches
The World Council of Churches (WCC) is a group of different Christian churches from around the world. It started in 1948 to help churches work together and understand each other better. The WCC focuses on important issues like peace, justice, and helping people in need.
Some of the members are
- Anglican churches e.g. the Church of England
- The Baptist Church
- Some Evangelical Churches
- Quakers (Society of Friends)
The Roman Catholic Church is not a member. But they work closely together.
The WCC brings different Christian churches together, an idea known as ecumenism. They focus on
- Faith: Helping churches discuss each other’s beliefs to find common ground.
- Mission and evangelism: Making efforts to spread Christianity.
- Justice and peace: Promoting for social justice, human rights, and peace.
- Humanitarian aid: Providing help to those in need.
Key words
Anglican churches: A big group of churches, like a team.
Baptist Church: A type of church, like a different team.
Christian: Someone who believes in Jesus.
Churches: Special buildings where Christians go to pray and learn.
Ecumenism: Different Christian churches coming together to be friends.
Evangelical Churches: Churches that really want to tell everyone about Jesus.
Faith: What you believe in, deep down.
Humanitarian aid: Helping people in need, like giving food and water after a disaster.
Justice: Making sure everyone is treated fairly.
Mission and evangelism: Telling others about Jesus and inviting them to join.
Peace: When everyone gets along and there’s no fighting
Quakers (Society of Friends): A type of church that focuses on being kind and peaceful
Roman Catholic Church: The biggest Christian church in the world
Social justice: Making sure everyone has the same opportunities.
The World Council of Churches (WCC): A big meeting where leaders from different Christian churches talk about important things.
Other sources of authority
The Bible is an important guide for all Christians.
The Holy Spirit: Christians believe the Holy Spirit helps them understand the Bible and guides them in their daily lives.
The Church: The Church and its leaders also help guide Christians. Different groups of Christians might give more or less importance to the Church’s authority. For example, Roman Catholics listen closely to the Pope and bishops, while other groups might focus more on their community’s wisdom.
Conscience