role of church

church as a place

• The church’s primary function is to allow people a space to worship God and facilitate communal worship among its members. 

•  It is also the place where believers are taught about Christianity and how to live a good Christian life through Sunday school classes, Bible studies, prayer groups, and services  

• A local church is important because it is the focal point of Christian identity and worship: 

•  It is where people go to show their devotion to God  

• Special services held for festivals (such as midnight mass at Christmas) 

church + social action

•  Many churches are involved in charitable works and social action, both locally and globally  

• This includes running food banks, offering shelter to the homeless, and providing services to those in need Globally the Church often takes an active role in responding to disasters and crises, providing aid and support
  

liturgical

set structures + rituals → catholic + anglican

nonliturgical

no set texts/ rituals → pentecostals may speak in tongues

informal

spontaneous/ charismatic

source of spiritual + moral guidance

• Provides spiritual nourishment and sense of belonging for believers 

• Offer communal worship, pastoral care and moral teachings  

• Studies show that religious faith can provide psychological comfort, reducing stress and increasing sense of purpose 

• Many churches function as centers of social interaction, fostering friendships, support networks, and charitable initiatives. 

• Churches often organize youth programs, Bible studies, social events, and counseling services, creating a strong sense of solidarity among members

role in charity + social work

• Churches operate food banks, homeless shelters, disaster relief programs and medical missions, offering essential services to marginalised communities 

• Organisations such as christian aid, salvation army and world vision provide humanitarian aid regadless of religious affiliation