Christianity, the world’s largest religion, has flourished for over two millennia, with its own set of unique beliefs, traditions, and practices.
Throughout its storied history, it has evolved and branched out, giving rise to various denominations that today collectively represent the faith’s vast landscape.
At the forefront of this expanse stand three prominent pillars: Roman Catholicism, Eastern Orthodoxy, and Protestantism.
While they all trace their roots back to the teachings of Jesus Christ (you can also learn more about Christ Consciousness) and the early Christian Church, each has carved out a distinctive identity, influenced by theological interpretations, historical events, and cultural contexts.
This article goes deep into the nuances of these three branches, exploring their histories, beliefs, and practices, offering you an in-depth journey through the heart of Christian traditions.
Historical Context
To understand each denomination more deeply, we must first look to the past to see how things came to be and how each one branched out from the same tree.
The Early Christian Church
In the aftermath of the crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus Christ, a small group of his followers began to spread his teachings, planting the seeds of what would become one of the world’s most influential religions.
Initially emerging as a sect within Judaism, early Christianity was characterized by its fervent belief in Jesus as the Messiah, its communal worship, and its expectation of an imminent return of Christ.
By the end of the first century, Christianity had begun to distinguish itself from its Jewish roots, with unique liturgical practices and theological interpretations. The faith faced sporadic persecutions but continued to grow, fueled by its inclusive message and the dedication of its adherents.
As the religion expanded, distinct Christian centers began to emerge, playing pivotal roles in shaping its trajectory. Two cities, in particular, stood out:
Rome: As the capital of the Roman Empire, Rome’s importance was both political and spiritual. The city’s Christian community claimed apostolic lineage, tracing its foundation to Saints Peter and Paul. Over time, the Bishop of Rome, later known as the Pope, would assert primacy over other Christian leaders, laying the groundwork for the development of Roman Catholicism and moving further away from what we have now come to know as Roman Mythology.
Constantinople: Named after Emperor Constantine, who legalized and later adopted Christianity, Constantinople (modern-day Istanbul) became the “New Rome” and the eastern counterpart to the old Roman capital. As the heart of the Byzantine Empire, it became the epicenter of Eastern Christian thought and practice, influencing the traditions that would crystallize into Eastern Orthodoxy.
The Great Schism
The early millennia of Christianity, while characterized by growth and spread, was not without its internal tensions. By the 11th century, these strains reached a breaking point, culminating in the Great Schism of 1054 AD—a watershed event that led to the division of the Christian world into the Western Roman Catholic Church and the Eastern Orthodox Church.
Here are some of the causes:
Theological Differences:
Filioque Controversy: The “Filioque” issue. The original Nicene Creed stated that the Holy Spirit proceeds “from the Father.” However, the Western Church added “Filioque” (meaning “and the Son”), suggesting the Holy Spirit proceeds from both the Father and the Son. This addition was not accepted by the Eastern Church.
Nature of Primacy: While both sides acknowledged the special status of the Bishop of Rome, their understanding differed. The West viewed the Pope as having universal jurisdiction and supremacy, whereas the East regarded him as the “first among equals” without overarching authority over other patriarchs.
Political Differences:
Political Rifts: The decline of Rome and the rise of Constantinople as the “New Rome” created power dynamics that affected the Church. The crowning of Charlemagne as the Holy Roman Emperor in 800 AD by the Pope was seen by the Byzantine Empire as a challenge to their authority.
Cultural and Liturgical Differences:
Language: Latin was the liturgical language of the West, while the East used Greek. Over time, this linguistic division contributed to misunderstandings and misinterpretations of theological concepts.
Clerical Practices: Differences in clerical practices, such as celibacy (mandated in the West but not in the East for parish priests), became points of contention.
The simmering tensions reached their climax in 1054 when Cardinal Humbert, a representative of Pope Leo IX, entered the Hagia Sophia in Constantinople and placed a bull of excommunication on the altar, directed at Patriarch Michael I Cerularius of Constantinople. In response, the Patriarch excommunicated the Cardinal.
While this event is often pinpointed as the moment of the Schism, in reality, the divide was a gradual process that solidified over the subsequent centuries. And despite attempts at reconciliation, the division still persists to this day.
The Protestant Reformation
The Protestant Reformation stands as one of the most transformative events in Christian history. Beginning in the early 16th century, the Reformation led to a seismic shift in the Christian landscape, giving birth to a plethora of Protestant denominations that persist to this day.
Here are some of the causes on why it happened:
Indulgences: One of the most controversial practices of the time was the sale of indulgences. The Church taught that indulgences could reduce the punishment for sins in purgatory, and they were increasingly sold as a means of raising funds for church projects, most notably the construction of St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome.
Church Corruption: Nepotism, simony (the buying and selling of church offices), and moral laxity among the clergy led many to question the integrity and sanctity of the Church.
Theological Disputes: Fundamental disagreements over teachings like justification (how a person is saved) emerged. While the Catholic Church emphasized faith and good works, reformers argued for the principle of “sola fide” – justification by faith alone.
At the forefront of the reformation were these key figures:
Martin Luther: A German monk and theologian, Luther is often considered the catalyst of the Reformation. In 1517, he famously nailed his “95 Theses” to the door of the Castle Church in Wittenberg, challenging the sale of indulgences and other church practices.
John Calvin: A French theologian, Calvin further developed reformed theology in his seminal work, the “Institutes of the Christian Religion.” He emphasized the sovereignty of God, the doctrine of predestination, and established a theocratic government in Geneva.
In response to the Reformation, the Catholic Church initiated a series of reforms, known as the Counter-Reformation. The Council of Trent (1545-1563) clarified Catholic doctrines and initiated reforms to address many of the criticized practices.
Roman Catholicism
Roman Catholicism, the largest Christian denomination, is characterized by a rich history, extensive tradition, and a comprehensive system of doctrine. Rooted in the teachings of Jesus and the apostles, and further developed through centuries of theological reflection, its beliefs are articulated through Church teachings, encyclicals, and ecumenical councils.
Doctrine & Beliefs
Scripture: Catholics believe in the divine inspiration of the Holy Bible, comprising both the Old and New Testaments. It serves as a primary source of faith and moral teachings.
Tradition: Equally important is Sacred Tradition, which encompasses the teachings passed down through the ages, from the apostles to the Church Fathers, to the present. This tradition, oral and written, complements and clarifies Scripture. The Magisterium, the teaching authority of the Church vested in the Pope and the bishops, interprets both Scripture and Tradition.
Views on Salvation: Salvation, in Catholic teaching, is a gift from God, achieved through the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus. Faith is essential, but so are good works and the sacraments. Catholics believe in the concept of purgatory, an intermediate state where souls are purified before entering heaven.
Saints: Saints are individuals recognized by the Church for their exemplary lives of holiness and virtue. They serve as role models for the faithful and intercessors to God. The process of canonization involves meticulous scrutiny of the person’s life, teachings, and miracles.
Virgin Mary: Central to Catholic devotion is the veneration of Mary, the mother of Jesus. She is honored with titles like “Mother of God” and “Queen of Heaven.” Key doctrines associated with Mary include her Immaculate Conception (belief that she was conceived without original sin) and her Assumption into Heaven.
The Seven Sacraments: The sacraments are visible signs of God’s grace, instituted by Christ, and entrusted to the Church. They are pivotal in a Catholic’s spiritual journey:
- Baptism: The initiation into the Christian community, cleansing of original sin.
- Confirmation: A deepening of baptismal gifts, it strengthens the bond with the Church.
- Eucharist: The central act of worship, it involves receiving the Body and Blood of Christ.
- Reconciliation: The forgiveness of sins after Baptism (Confession).
- Anointing of the Sick: Spiritual and sometimes physical healing.
- Marriage: The union of man and woman.
- Holy Orders: The ordination of priests and bishops.
Governance & Structure
The governance and structure of the Roman Catholic Church reflect its twofold mission: to be both a spiritual guide and a structured organization overseeing a global community of believers. Central to its governance is the concept of Apostolic Succession, which emphasizes the unbroken line of leadership from the apostles to today’s bishops.
- The Role of the Pope: The Pope, often referred to as the Bishop of Rome or the Supreme Pontiff, is the highest authority in the Catholic Church. He serves as both the spiritual leader of Catholics worldwide and the administrative head of the Vatican City, an independent city-state within Rome. Stemming from the belief that St. Peter, considered the first pope, was given a special role by Jesus, papal primacy denotes the Pope’s supreme jurisdiction in matters of faith, morals, and governance. His teachings, when spoken “ex cathedra” (from the chair of Peter), are considered infallible on issues of faith and morals.
Structure of the Hierarchy:
Cardinals: Functioning as the Pope’s primary advisors, cardinals have a significant role within the Church’s governance. They are usually senior bishops chosen by the Pope for their experience and wisdom. The College of Cardinals has the essential responsibility of electing a new pope when the papal seat is vacant.
Bishops: Bishops are ordained to oversee a particular geographic area, called a diocese. As successors to the apostles, they have the authority to teach, sanctify, and govern their assigned communities. Each diocese functions semi-autonomously, but all bishops are subject to the Pope’s authority. They gather periodically in synods or ecumenical councils to discuss important matters concerning the Church.
Priests: Priests are ordained to serve within a diocese. They are responsible for administering the sacraments, teaching the faith, and guiding the spiritual life of the local community. They operate under the authority of their local bishop, serving in parishes, schools, hospitals, or other Church institutions.
Deacons: Deacons are ordained ministers who assist priests and bishops in their pastoral and administrative duties. They can perform some sacraments, like baptisms, and often focus on charitable and social ministries.
Worship & Liturgy
Eucharistic Celebration: The Mass, or the Eucharistic celebration, is the central act of Catholic worship. It commemorates the Last Supper, where Jesus instituted the Eucharist. Through the words of consecration spoken by the priest, the bread and wine become the Body and Blood of Christ, a doctrine known as transubstantiation.
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Structure of the Mass:
- Liturgy of the Word: This includes readings from the Old and New Testaments, a responsorial psalm, and a Gospel reading. It culminates in the homily, a reflection by the priest or deacon on the day’s readings.
- Liturgy of the Eucharist: After the presentation of bread and wine, the consecration takes place, followed by the Communion rite where the faithful receive the Eucharist.
Eastern Orthodoxy
Eastern Orthodoxy, with its rich theological tradition and distinctive practices, represents one of the most ancient forms of Christian expression. While it shares foundational beliefs with Roman Catholicism, the Orthodox Church also holds unique theological concepts and liturgical emphases, nurtured over centuries of contemplation, monasticism, and interaction with diverse cultures.
Doctrine & Beliefs
The Essence-Energy Distinction: A crucial concept in Orthodox theology, the essence-energy distinction, aims to explain the nature of God and His relationship with creation. While God’s essence remains unknowable and transcendent, His energies—representing His actions, attributes, and divine grace—are immanent and can be experienced by creation.
The Seven Mysteries:
- Like Catholicism, the Eastern Orthodox Church upholds the importance of the seven sacraments (or “Mysteries” as they’re often termed in Orthodoxy) as means of grace and spiritual growth.
- Differences from Catholicism:
- Eucharist: While both traditions believe in the Real Presence of Christ in the Eucharist, Orthodoxy does not define the transformation using the term “transubstantiation.” Instead, it accepts the mystery without rigid philosophical explanation.
- Chrismation: Analogous to Confirmation in Catholicism, but in the Orthodox tradition, it usually occurs immediately after Baptism, even for infants. It involves anointing with holy chrism (oil).
- Clerical Marriage: Orthodox priests can be married, but they must do so before ordination. Bishops, however, must be celibate and are usually chosen from the monastic ranks.
- Like Catholicism, the Eastern Orthodox Church upholds the importance of the seven sacraments (or “Mysteries” as they’re often termed in Orthodoxy) as means of grace and spiritual growth.
Views on Salvation and the Afterlife: Salvation in Orthodoxy is perceived as a process called “theosis” or “deification,” where believers grow closer to God and participate in His divine nature. It’s an ongoing journey of transformation and sanctification.
Afterlife: The Orthodox Church is reticent about detailed descriptions of the afterlife, emphasizing the mystery of God’s judgment and mercy. However, it does believe in an intermediate state after death, where souls experience a foretaste of paradise or separation from God. The concept of purgatory, as understood in Catholicism, is not a formal part of Orthodox doctrine.
Icons: Icons hold a central place in Orthodox worship and spirituality. They are windows to the divine, facilitating a connection between the believer and the holy figure depicted. Iconoclasm (the rejection or destruction of religious images) was a significant controversy in early Christianity. The Seventh Ecumenical Council in 787 AD, however, affirmed the veneration of icons as essential to the Orthodox faith. Veneration of icons should not be confused with worship, which is reserved for God alone. Instead, icons are kissed, incensed, and revered as sacred representations of Christ, the Virgin Mary, and the saints.
Governance & Structure
Unlike the centralized authority system seen in Roman Catholicism with the Pope, Eastern Orthodoxy operates under a more decentralized model, upholding the principles of conciliarity and collegiality among its leaders, which are the:
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Patriarchs: Historically, patriarchs were the bishops of the major Christian cities (e.g., Constantinople, Alexandria, Antioch, Jerusalem, and Rome). Over time, their roles evolved, and they became primary bishops overseeing vast regions.
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Bishops: Just as in Catholicism, Orthodox bishops are considered successors to the apostles and are ordained to oversee a diocese, teach the faith, and maintain unity.
Principle of Conciliaritiy (Collective Decision-Making):
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Ecumenical Councils: Throughout history, the Orthodox Church has convened ecumenical councils to address significant theological controversies and to define dogma. These councils represent the principle of collective decision-making at its highest level. The decisions made during these councils, guided by the Holy Spirit, are binding for the entire Church.
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Synodal System: Every autocephalous (independent) Orthodox Church operates under a synodal system, where a council (or synod) of bishops collectively make decisions. This collegial approach reflects the Orthodox understanding of the Church as a communion of local churches, united in faith and sacraments but administratively autonomous.
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Role of the Laity: While clerical leaders make many decisions, the laity also plays a role, especially in local church affairs. The principle of “sobornost,” which can be translated as “conciliarity” or “catholicity,” emphasizes the harmonious relationship between clergy and laity in discerning the will of the Holy Spirit.
Worship & Liturgy
The Divine Liturgy: The Divine Liturgy is the primary worship service of the Orthodox Church, analogous to the Mass in Roman Catholicism. It is where the Eucharistic mystery is celebrated, and believers commune with God.
Major Forms: There are several forms of the Divine Liturgy, but the most commonly celebrated are:
- Liturgy of St. John Chrysostom: This is the standard Liturgy celebrated on most Sundays and feast days.
- Liturgy of St. Basil the Great: Longer and with more elaborate prayers, it’s used on certain significant occasions like the Sundays of Lent (excluding Palm Sunday).
- Liturgy of the Presanctified Gifts: Primarily served during Lent, it’s a Vespers service combined with the distribution of Communion from the Eucharistic gifts consecrated on the previous Sunday.
Structure: The Divine Liturgy is divided into the Liturgy of the Catechumens (focused on scripture readings and teaching) and the Liturgy of the Faithful (centered on the Eucharistic celebration). It is filled with hymns, antiphons, scripture readings, and ritual actions, all designed to convey theological truths and facilitate communion with God.
Fasting: Fasting holds significant importance in Orthodox spirituality, seen as a means to discipline the body and soul. Major fasting periods include Great Lent (before Easter), the Apostles’ Fast (before the Feast of Sts. Peter and Paul), the Dormition Fast (before the Assumption of the Virgin Mary), and the Nativity Fast (before Christmas).
Protestantism
Protestantism, which emerged during the 16th-century Reformation, is not a monolithic entity but a diverse collection of denominations and movements. Though diverse, certain foundational beliefs and principles characterize the Protestant theological landscape.
Doctrine & Beliefs
Principle of Sola Scriptura: “Sola Scriptura” translates to “Scripture Alone.” It signifies the belief that the Bible is the ultimate and sole authoritative source of Christian doctrine. Here are some of its implications:
- Authority: Protestants reject any spiritual authority that isn’t derived directly from the Bible. This principle often leads to the rejection of certain traditions and teachings upheld in Catholicism and Orthodoxy that aren’t explicitly found in Scripture.
- Interpretation: With the Bible as the primary source of authority, interpretation plays a crucial role. This has led to a diversity of theological perspectives and, consequently, the formation of various denominations within Protestantism.
- Accessibility: “Sola Scriptura” also influenced the drive to translate the Bible into vernacular languages, ensuring that laypeople could read and interpret Scripture for themselves.
Views on Salvation: Most Protestant traditions emphasize salvation by grace through faith alone (“Sola Fide”), stressing that human beings cannot earn salvation through good works but receive it as a gift from God.
Predestination in Calvinism: Originating from the teachings of John Calvin, predestination is the belief that God, before the foundation of the world, chose certain individuals for salvation and others for damnation, based on His sovereign will. This concept is particularly emphasized in Reformed and Presbyterian traditions. It underscores the sovereignty of God in the process of salvation, arguing that human free will plays no role in one’s ultimate destiny.
The Role (or Lack Thereof) of Sacraments in Different Denominations:
- General Protestant View: Protestants typically recognize two main sacraments or “ordinances” – Baptism and the Lord’s Supper (Communion). These are seen not as means of grace in themselves (as in Catholicism and Orthodoxy) but as symbolic actions commemorating Christ’s work and the believer’s faith.
- Baptism: While the act of baptism is universally accepted among Protestants, the methods (e.g., infant vs. adult baptism, sprinkling vs. immersion) vary widely among denominations.
- The Lord’s Supper: Views on the Lord’s Supper vary significantly. For instance, Lutherans believe in the “real presence” of Christ in the elements, though not through transubstantiation, while many other Protestant groups see the bread and wine (or juice) as purely symbolic.
Governance & Structure
While all Protestant denominations share some foundational beliefs, each also possesses distinct emphases, traditions, and practices. An understanding of these nuances provides a richer appreciation for the diversity and depth within Protestant Christianity. Here are some denominations:
Lutheran: Originated in Germany during the early stages of the Reformation, largely due to the teachings of Martin Luther.
- Unique Beliefs and Practices:
- Affirmation of “Sola Fide” (justification by faith alone) and “Sola Gratia” (grace alone).
- Recognizes the real presence of Christ in the Eucharist (though not via transubstantiation).
- High regard for the liturgical traditions, with worship often following a set liturgical pattern.
- Unique Beliefs and Practices:
Baptist: Baptists emphasize the importance of adult believer’s baptism (as opposed to infant baptism) and the autonomy of the local church.
- Unique Beliefs and Practices:
- Only those who have professed their faith are baptized, usually by immersion.
- Strong emphasis on the priesthood of all believers and congregational governance.
- Evangelism and missionary work are often prioritized.
- Unique Beliefs and Practices:
Anglican: Originating from the Church of England, the Anglican Communion now spans worldwide. It holds a unique position, blending Reformation principles with many Catholic traditions.
- Unique Beliefs and Practices:
- The Book of Common Prayer is a central liturgical guide.
- A balance of Scripture, tradition, and reason in theological reflection, often referred to as the “Anglican triad” or “three-legged stool.”
- Apostolic succession is maintained, and the liturgy often has a “high church” feel, though there is significant variation within the communion.
- Unique Beliefs and Practices:
Methodist: Emerging in the 18th century from the teachings of John and Charles Wesley, Methodism emphasizes the importance of sanctification and personal holiness.
- Unique Beliefs and Practices:
- Belief in “prevenient grace” – the idea that God’s grace is active in a person’s life even before they are aware of it.
- Open Communion, where all believers (not just Methodists) are invited to partake.
- Historically known for enthusiastic worship, circuit preachers, and the class meeting system to encourage personal holiness and accountability.
- Unique Beliefs and Practices:
Others: There are many other Protestant denominations, such as the Pentecostals, who emphasize the active work of the Holy Spirit and charismatic gifts; Adventists, who prioritize the imminent second coming of Christ; and the Anabaptists, known for their pacifism and commitment to living out the teachings of the Sermon on the Mount, among others.
Worship & Liturgy
Protestant worship encapsulates a vast spectrum of expressions:
- Liturgical Worship: Often follows a set pattern or order of worship, which may be rooted in historic Christian liturgies. There is also the use of liturgical calendars, specific colors for different liturgical seasons, and rituals like the Lord’s Supper or Eucharist celebrated in a manner consistent with church tradition. Liturgical worship is more common in Lutheran, Anglican, and some Presbyterian and Methodist churches.
- Non-Liturgical Worship: More free-form and spontaneous, less tied to traditional rituals or liturgical calendars. There is greater emphasis on individual expression, spontaneous prayers, and contemporary music. The order of service might vary from week to week. Typical of Baptist, Pentecostal, non-denominational, and many community churches.
- Blended Worship: Combines elements of both liturgical and non-liturgical worship. Might incorporate traditional hymns with contemporary praise songs, or follow a liturgical structure interspersed with more spontaneous elements. Many modern churches, recognizing the value in both styles, adopt this approach to cater to a broader congregation.
Catholic vs Orthodox vs Protestant
Christianity’s myriad expressions, encompassing Roman Catholicism, Eastern Orthodoxy, and the broad spectrum of Protestant denominations, actually have more in common than what sets them apart.
Shared Foundations
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Aspect
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Roman Catholicism
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Eastern Orthodoxy
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Protestantism
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Belief in the Holy Trinity (One God in three persons: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit)
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Affirmed; central to theology and liturgy
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Affirmed; central in theology, liturgy, and iconography
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Affirmed by mainline denominations; central to creeds and teachings
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Jesus' incarnation, crucifixion, resurrection, and teachings
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Celebrated in sacraments, liturgy, and annual church calendar
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Echoed in feasts, liturgy, and iconographic tradition
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Foundational; regularly explored in sermons and Bible studies
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Significance of the Bible (Old & New Testaments as the inspired Word of God)
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Valued as divine revelation; interpreted within the context of Church Tradition
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Highly revered; interpreted through the lens of Patristic writings and councils
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Central, especially in Protestantism where many emphasize "Sola Scriptura"
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Nature of Salvation
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Emphasizes sacramental grace and cooperation with God's will
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Mystical participation in God's energies and sacraments
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Varies; many emphasize faith alone, some stress predestination, others free will
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Role of the Holy Spirit
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Guides the Church; conferred in sacrament of Confirmation
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Descends upon believers in Chrismation; seen in liturgy and church councils
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Active in conversion, guidance, and spiritual gifts; central in Pentecostalism
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Communion of Saints
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Saints venerated; especially the Virgin Mary. Prayers for the departed in Mass
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Deep veneration of saints and icons; special prayers for the departed
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Varied; some denominations venerate saints, others focus more on general "priesthood of all believers"
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Afterlife and Resurrection
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Heaven, Hell, Purgatory; emphasized in sacraments and teachings
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Heaven and Hell; more emphasis on theosis and deification
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Varied views on Heaven, Hell; some denominations reject the concept of Purgatory
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While the shared foundations of Christianity provide a common ground, the differences among Roman Catholicism, Eastern Orthodoxy, and Protestantism have led to distinct traditions, practices, and sometimes even deep-seated disputes.
Key Differences
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Aspect
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Roman Catholicism
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Eastern Orthodoxy
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Protestantism
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Authority in Doctrine
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Papal infallibility: Pope speaks without error on matters of faith when speaking ex cathedra. Dual authority of Scripture and Tradition.
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No single infallible authority; Ecumenical Councils and Patristic writings are revered. Tradition interprets Scripture.
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Emphasis on "Sola Scriptura": Scripture alone as the ultimate authority. Councils and traditions are secondary.
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Church Governance
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Centralized hierarchy: Pope at the top, followed by cardinals, bishops, and priests.
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Conciliar model: Autonomy of national churches, each led by a patriarch or archbishop. Decisions often made collectively.
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Diverse structures: Some, like Anglicans, have bishops. Others, like Baptists, emphasize local autonomy.
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Sacraments or Mysteries
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Seven sacraments. The Eucharist involves transubstantiation (bread and wine become actual Body and Blood).
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Seven mysteries. The Eucharist is a mystery, without attempting to define the change. Icons play a prominent role in worship.
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Varies by denomination. Generally, Baptism and the Lord's Supper are recognized. Interpretations and importance of sacraments can vary widely.
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Original Sin and Salvation
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Original sin removed at baptism. Salvation is a cooperation between God's grace and human works.
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Humanity inherits the consequence but not the guilt of original sin. Theosis (deification) plays a role in salvation.
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Varies: Lutherans and Anglicans maintain a concept of original sin, while many others focus on personal sin. "Faith alone" emphasized by many.
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Mary and the Saints
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Mary is Immaculate (conceived without sin) and assumed into heaven. Saints are canonized and venerated.
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Mary is highly venerated as the Theotokos (God-bearer). Saints are recognized and venerated, but the process is different from canonization.
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Varies: Anglicans and some Lutherans venerate Mary. Many Protestants respect Mary as blessed but avoid practices they view as elevating her too highly.
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Afterlife Views
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Concepts of Heaven, Hell, and Purgatory. Indulgences relate to remission of temporal punishment in purgatory.
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Heaven and Hell are experienced differently based on one's relationship with God. Fewer specific teachings about the nature of the afterlife. No purgatory.
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Varied views, but Purgatory is generally rejected. Heaven and Hell are commonly held beliefs across denominations.
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Worship & Liturgy
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Latin Rite is dominant, but there are Eastern Catholic rites. Liturgical worship.
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The Divine Liturgy, especially that of St. John Chrysostom. Use of icons and incense is prevalent.
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Wide range: from liturgical worship in Anglican and Lutheran traditions to non-liturgical, evangelical services in Baptist or Pentecostal churches.
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