The Birth, Development and Beliefs of the Church

The Birth of the Church

The birth of the Christian Church can be traced back to the first Pentecost, often recognised as the birthday of the Church.
This event is detailed in the Bible’s New Testament, specifically the Book of Acts.
On the day of Pentecost, the Holy Spirit descended upon Jesus’ disciples.
This signified the commencement of their mission to spread Jesus’ teachings, corroborating the start of the Christian Church.

The Church expanded significantly during the Roman Empire after Emperor Constantine converted to Christianity making it a legal religion.
Many Church councils and gatherings were held throughout the early centuries, such as the Council of Nicaea, to debate and determine orthodox beliefs.
The Great Schism in 1054 led to the separation between the Roman Catholic Church in the West, and Orthodox Churches in the East.
The Reformation in the 16th century created another major division, leading to the establishment of Protestant Churches.

Central Church beliefs are often encapsulated in Creeds, such as the Nicene Creed and the Apostles’ Creed.
Christians believe in the Incarnation - that Jesus is both God and man, born to the Virgin Mary.
They also believe in the Trinity - God is one but exists in three persons: God the Father, God the Son (Jesus), and God the Holy Spirit.
Jesus’ suffering, death and Resurrection are seen as the means by which humans can be reconciled with God.
The Sacraments, such as baptism and communion, are significant rituals in the Church.
Christians believe in life after death and the Final Judgement.
Prayer, reading the Bible, and participation in communal worship are fundamental parts of Christian practice.