Church of Scotland

Date: 2015-10-07; view: 774.

Protestantism

Catholicism

Got a permission to act freely only about 100 years ago. Don't play a public, official role in society, so it takes doctrines and practice more seriously, than Anglican Church.

In Catholic schools a head is always a monk or a nun (not likewise in Anglican ones). Also there is a matter of attending Church (it's obligatory, if you're a part of this religious group).

Place great importance on finding the truth in the words of Bible and on living an austere life of hard work and self-sacrifice. Disapprove of the pursuit of pleasure (frowned on public entertainments, gambling, celebration of the sexual aspect of life).

Puritan/Calvinist tradition (Presbyterian Church) – national Church in Scotland.

No bishops, head (Moderator) is elected by general assembly of the Church.

Puritan/Calvinist tradition (Presbyterian Church) – national Church in Scotland.

No bishops, head (Moderator) is elected by general assembly of the Church.

5. ‘Free churches'

5.1. Nonconformists

The Protestants who didn't accept the authority of the Anglican Church and others, who didn't join the majority. A big variety of members of ‘free churches' with different styles of worship, details of organization, doctrinal emphasis, etc.

Same: regard simplicity and individual prayer as more important than public ceremony; little difference between their clergy (if there is one) and their lay members; praise self-denial. For example many are teetotal (don't drink alcohol).

5.2. Methodist Society

Follow the teachings of John Wesley (18 century preacher). Little doctrinal disagreement with established church, however they consider that it doesn't care enough about needs of ordinary people, and that it's hierarchy isn't serious enough about Christian message.

Created Salvation army.

5.3. Baptists; Quakers

Are quite similar. Dislike worldly pleasures.

5.4. Society of Friends

Small group. Complete lack of clergy and absolute pacifism. Refuse to fight in a war, but will do ambulance and hospital work.

6. ‘Charismatic' (Pentecostals etc.)

Less emphasis on dogma, sin or giving people code of behavior. The emphasis is on the spiritual and miraculous, on revelation. Their gathering often involves joyful singing. Believe in spiritual healing.

7. Muslim, Hindu, Jewish

Associated with ethnic minorities.

8. ‘Cults'

Belief, which involves absolute commitment and unquestioning obedience to the leader. Bad reputation. Extremist tendencies. Small number of members. About 500 cults in the country.