Winter Religion Exam

Catholicism

A branch of Christianity headed by the Pope, emphasizing tradition and sacramental practices.

Lutheranism

A Protestant faith founded by Martin Luther, emphasizing justification by faith alone.

Anglicanism

A branch of Christianity that recognizes the English monarch as the head of the church.

Calvinism

A Protestant denomination founded by John Calvin, known for its belief in predestination.

Sola Fide

A key Lutheran doctrine meaning 'faith alone' is sufficient for salvation.

Sola Scriptura

The belief that the Bible alone is the ultimate authority in matters of faith.

Ekklesia

The Greek term meaning 'assembly', referring to the early Christian community.

Pentecost

The event signaling the coming of the Holy Spirit, marking the beginning of the Church's public mission.

Council of Nicaea

A council that defined the nature of Christ and refuted Arianism.

The Great Schism (1054)

The split between the Eastern Orthodox and Western Catholic Church over doctrinal differences.

Sacraments

Rituals recognized as a means of grace in the Catholic Church, including Baptism and Eucharist.

Seven Sacraments

The foundational rituals of the Catholic Church through which believers receive God's grace.

Indulgences

Payments made to the Church that were once thought to reduce punishment for sins, criticized by Martin Luther.

Filioque controversy

A theological dispute regarding the phrase 'and the Son' in the Nicene Creed, affecting Eastern and Western Churches.

Vatican II

A significant ecumenical council that led to major reforms in the Catholic Church's approach to worship and relations with other faiths.

Culture of Life

A principle advocated by Pope John Paul II emphasizing the sanctity of life and human dignity.