Christianity
Catholic rosaries
History
Christianity is based on the teachings of Jesus, a Jew who was born around 2,000 years ago, who challenged the practices of his religious leaders. At first, Christianity was a fringe cult, but by the beginning of the 4th century AD it had pushed out pagan religions across Europe and established itself as the religion of the Roman Empire. Rome became the seat of power of the church where Popes were elected as successors of St Peter, whom Jesus had appointed to lead his church.
Christianity continued to expand in the Middle Ages as monks and missionaries travelled to spread Jesus' teachings. The church instilled order as well as spiritual teaching and, along with massive cathedrals, set up academic and agricultural institutions that dominated European society and culture until the early 20th century.
In 1054, in an event known as the Schism, the Orthodox Christians broke away from the Roman Catholic Church. The conflict between them has never been resolved, and today the Orthodox church is dominant in Russia and Greece. The Renaissance brought more questioning. Those who protested against Catholic practice, such as John Calvin and Martin Luther, became known as Protestants. The Reformation of the church was sweeping across Europe. Attempts to enforce obedience to the Roman Catholic church became increasingly aggressive, particularly in Spain, where the Inquisition tortured 'heretics' into submission. In many countries Protestants were persecuted and driven out. Many French Huguenots settled in England; others went further to try and establish new societies, like the Pilgrim Fathers who set sail for the New World in 1620.
Beliefs
Christians believe in a single god who encompasses three elements, known as the Holy Trinity: the Father, the Son (Jesus) and the Holy Spirit. All Christian groups believe that Jesus was the son of God, born to Mary, a virgin because the child was conceived of the Holy Spirit, not of her husband Joseph. They also believe that after his execution on a cross, Jesus rose from the dead. Catholics also believe that the Virgin Mary holds a special place as mediator between God and his people.
According to Christian doctrine, Jesus was sent to Earth to redeem the sins of humankind through his death and resurrection. Christian teaching comes mostly from the New Testament, a record of the life of Jesus and his teachings, which promise that faith in God through Jesus and good works will bring eternal life.
