All 23 Branches of Christianity & Their Differences (Plus Timeline!)

Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this article belong to the author and do not necessarily match my own. - Dr. Bart D. Ehrman

With as many as twenty-three branches of Christianity, it's easy to get their beliefs, rituals, and scriptures confused.  There's a lot of diversity!

In Lost Christianities, Bart D. Ehrman observes:

"It may be difficult to imagine a religious phenomenon more diverse than modern-day Christianity. There are Roman Catholic missionaries in developing countries who devote themselves to voluntary poverty for the sake of others and evangelical televangelists who run twelve-step programs to ensure financial success. There are New England Presbyterians and Appalachian snake handlers. There are Greek Orthodox priests committed to the liturgical service of God, replete with set prayers, incantations, and incense, and fundamentalist preachers who view high-church liturgy as a demonic invention."

However, this only begins to hint at the vast diversity among the branches of Christianity. It’s a paradox, really: At the center of each branch is the same figure, Jesus of Nazareth, yet there are often striking disagreements about fundamental issues such as his true nature, the authority of the Bible, and the means of salvation.

Christianity has evolved into numerous branches over the past two millennia, each shaped by unique historical, cultural, and theological developments. Today, it encompasses everything from the highly structured traditions of the Roman Catholic Church to the varied and vibrant expressions of Protestant denominations, which are some of the most well-known branches of Christianity in the U.S.

To truly understand this complex religion, one must first grasp the differences among its primary branches: Roman Catholicism, Eastern Orthodoxy, Protestantism, Oriental Orthodoxy, and the Assyrian Church of the East. These major traditions carry a unique legacy, with sub-branches that further showcase Christianity’s rich variety.

This article will explore the major branches of Christianity, thus providing insights into their foundational beliefs, historical backgrounds, and distinctive characteristics. Along the way, we’ll highlight key differences and map out the intricate landscape of Christian denominations that continue to shape the religious world today.

However, before we begin, I want to invite you to check out Bart D. Ehrman’s excellent course “Paul and Jesus: The Great Divide.” These two pivotal figures in the history of Christianity shared some similarities but they differ on some big and important issues. Check Dr. Ehrman’s course and find out more! 

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Five Major Branches of Christianity

The following branches of Christianity have been chosen due to their contemporary popularity (based on the number of members) and historical significance. This categorization, of course, could have been different and I fully acknowledge a certain element of subjectivity!

#1 - Roman Catholic Church: Key Features

With more than 1 billion members, the Roman Catholic Church is the largest Christian denomination. It claims its origins in the apostolic era, with roots traditionally believed to date back to St. Peter, whom Catholics consider the first Pope. 

Over centuries, Catholicism evolved through theological debates, councils, and cultural exchanges, becoming a deeply influential institution in the Western world. Central to its identity are core beliefs in the Trinity, the divinity of Christ, and the authority of Scripture and Tradition.

Undoubtedly, Jesus of Nazareth holds a pivotal role in the belief system of the Catholic Church. As the Catechism of the Catholic Church explains: “At the heart of catechesis, we find, in essence, a Person, the Person of Jesus of Nazareth, the only Son from the Father... who suffered and died for us and who now, after rising, is living with us forever.”

Moreover, the Pope, as the Bishop of Rome, serves as the highest authority, symbolizing unity within the global Catholic community. His role, along with that of the bishops, is seen as essential in maintaining doctrinal continuity.

Furthermore, sacraments are at the heart of Catholic worship, with seven key sacraments — Baptism, Confirmation, Eucharist, Reconciliation, Anointing of the Sick, Matrimony, and Holy Orders — acting as vital rites through which believers receive grace and connect with God.

In his book The Light of Christ: An Introduction to Catholicism, Thomas J. White explains:

The Eucharist, or Holy Communion, is especially significant, as Catholics believe in the doctrine of transubstantiation, where bread and wine are transformed into the body and blood of Christ. Additionally, the Catholic Bible has 73 books, including seven Deutero-canonical books not found in the Protestant Bible. 

Moreover, Catholics view salvation as a journey that involves faith, grace received through the sacraments, and good works, which serve as expressions of faith and adherence to God’s commandments.

Finally, in contrast to the Protestant tradition, Catholic beliefs are grounded not only in the Bible but in the traditions and writings of the Church Fathers such as Jerome and Augustine. Richard P. McBrien explains the relationship between the Scripture/Bible and Tradition in Catholicism:

#2 - Eastern Orthodox Church

In our exploration of the main branches of Christianity, we come to the Eastern Orthodox Church. It’s one of the oldest branches of Christianity and goes back to the early Christian communities of the Eastern Roman Empire, particularly in regions such as Asia Minor, Greece, and the Levant.

While the Church initially shared a unified structure with Western Christianity, theological and political differences led to a formal split in 1054, known as the Great Schism. The divide was largely fueled by disputes over papal authority, the filioque clause in the Nicene Creed, and various liturgical practices.

In his book History of Christianity, Paul Johnson notes: 

Unlike the Roman Catholic Church, which is united under the Pope, the Eastern Orthodox Church is organized into a communion of autocephalous (independent) churches, each led by its patriarch or bishop. 

These include the Greek Orthodox, Russian Orthodox, Serbian Orthodox, and other patriarchates, which are united by shared beliefs and practices but maintain administrative independence.

Theologically, the Eastern Orthodox Church emphasizes the mystery of the divine and the transformative journey of salvation through theosis, or becoming one with God, a process realized through prayer, participation in the sacraments, and a life of virtue. 

In his book The Orthodox Church, Timothy Ware notes that Orthodox worship engages the senses in a profoundly dramatic and theologically rich way. While the fundamental elements of the Eucharistic celebration mirror those of the Roman liturgy, the Orthodox style — marked by its grandeur and unique aesthetic — is unmistakable, even in the humblest and simplest of churches.

The Orthodox liturgy immerses worshippers in a rich sensory experience. Ministers are dressed in ornate vestments, hymns are resonantly chanted, incense and candles are generously used, and processions and prostrations are continuous movements. Every element engages the senses, creating worship practices that feel deeply physical.

While Protestant worship may appeal primarily to the intellect and Catholic liturgy often to the heart, Orthodox worship distinctly involves the whole body. I still remember my first experience entering an Orthodox Church at age sixteen, captivated by the reverence and mystery that filled the air.

Finally, icons, revered as “windows into heaven,” play a central role in Orthodox spirituality. These sacred images of Christ, the Virgin Mary, and the saints are believed to convey divine grace and are used in both public worship and private devotion.

As we continue our exploration of the major branches of Christianity, our focus now turns to the Protestant tradition — a richly diverse tapestry of beliefs that emerged with the Protestant Reformation in the 16th century.

#3 - Protestantism: Historical Emergence and Key Features

As noted, Protestantism emerged in the early 16th century as a significant movement within Western Christianity, initially sparked by figures such as Martin Luther, John Calvin, and Huldrych Zwingli. 

Dissatisfaction with various practices and teachings within the Roman Catholic Church, particularly in relation to the sale of indulgences and the authority of the papacy, prompted the so-named Reformers to call for a return to what they saw as a purer faith, more closely aligned with the Sacred Scriptures.

As Ulinka Rublack explains in The Oxford Handbook of the Protestant Reformation:

In other words, the Protestant Reformations (plural!) were marked by a desire to break free from perceived ecclesiastical corruption and to re-emphasize the role of individual faith. It set off a wave of theological and cultural shifts across Europe, fundamentally altering the landscape of Christianity.

A key characteristic of Protestant belief is the principle of “sola scriptura,” or “Scripture alone,” which asserts that the Bible is the ultimate authority in matters of faith and practice, rather than Church tradition or ecclesiastical hierarchy.

Consequently, unlike the hierarchical structure of the Roman Catholic Church, many Protestant groups embrace a decentralized model, where individual congregations often hold significant autonomy.

Central to Protestant theology is the concept of salvation by grace through faith, a belief often summarized by the principle of “sola fide,” or “faith alone.” According to this view, salvation is a gift from God, accessible through faith in Jesus Christ, rather than through any human works or intermediaries.

One of the many places where Martin Luther asserted his “sola fide” convictions was in The Babylonian Captivity of the Church, published in 1520. In it, he writes: 

Protestant teachings also emphasize the “priesthood of all believers.” It’s a doctrine that stresses the individual’s direct relationship with God, without needing mediation through priests or saints.

As we’ll see in the rest of this article, over time, Protestantism gave rise to a wide range of denominations and movements, each interpreting foundational principles such as “sola scriptura” and “sola fide" within distinct cultural and theological frameworks. However, before that, we need to take a look at two major branches of Christianity that we haven’t covered yet!

#4 - Oriental Orthodoxy: A Blast from the Past

Oriental Orthodoxy is a branch of Christianity that traces its roots to the earliest Christian communities in regions such as Egypt, Syria, and Armenia. 

The defining moment for this tradition occurred at the Council of Chalcedon in 451 C.E., where a theological divide emerged between those who accepted the Council’s definition of Christ as having two natures (divine and human) and those who rejected it.

Leo D. Davis sketches the aftermath of this council:

The group that would later form the Oriental Orthodox Churches embraced what is often called miaphysitism, the belief in the unified nature of Christ, where his humanity and divinity are united without division or confusion. 

This theological stance, distinct from the “two natures” doctrine of Chalcedonian Christianity, led to the formation of separate ecclesiastical structures and the eventual development of a distinct Oriental Orthodox identity.

Oriental Orthodoxy includes several ancient Christian communities, such as the Coptic Orthodox Church of Egypt, the Armenian Apostolic Church, the Ethiopian Orthodox Church, the Syriac Orthodox Church, and the Malankara Orthodox Syrian Church of India.

Each one maintains its own liturgical, linguistic, and cultural traditions while sharing core theological beliefs and sacraments. For instance, let’s take the Canon of Scripture. The Oriental Orthodox Churches each follow distinct Biblical canons shaped by their unique histories and cultures. 

While all include books from the Septuagint, additional texts vary: For example, the Ethiopian Orthodox Church has the most extensive canon, incorporating books such as 1 Enoch and Jubilees, while the Armenian and Syriac Orthodox canons are closer to the Eastern Orthodox Bible.

Despite their doctrinal differences with Eastern Orthodoxy and Catholicism, Oriental Orthodox churches view themselves as custodians of the apostolic faith, preserving ancient teachings and practices that predate the divisions of the 5th century.

Today, with approximately 60 million members, Oriental Orthodoxy continues to thrive in its historical homelands and within diaspora communities, thus offering a unique perspective within Christianity and proving once again the rich tapestry of the most popular religion in the world.

#5 - Assyrian Church of the East:

The Assyrian Church of the East, often associated with the term “Nestorian,” traces its origins to early Christian communities in the Persian Empire. The church’s defining moment came in the fifth century when it rejected the Council of Ephesus in 431 C.E., primarily due to theological disagreements over the nature of Christ.

Nestorius was an Antiochene (Syrian) monk who became archbishop of Constantinople in 428 C.E. and whose preachings on the radical separation of Logos (Word) and humanity gave rise to the movement called Nestorianism that emphasized the humanity of Jesus.

Henry Chadwick, in his book East and West: The Making of a Rift in the Church, provides the historical background of the controversy that culminated in the 5th century: 

Paul Johnson highlights the intensity of polemics and disputes that were central to 5th-century church politics:

So, back then it wasn’t always that fun to be a Christian! In any case, the Assyrian Church eventually embraced a dyophysite Christology (the theological study of the nature and person of Christ), which holds that Christ’s divine and human natures are distinct yet united in one person. 

This belief set it apart from the Roman and Byzantine churches, which upheld the doctrine of the hypostatic union — Christ’s two natures fully united in one essence.

Although later scholarship has shown that the term “Nestorian” oversimplifies the church’s Christology, it remains a label commonly associated with this tradition.

The Assyrian Church of the East developed a unique liturgical and theological identity that reflects its cultural and geographical heritage. Its worship centers around the Holy Qurbana, a term meaning “offering” in Syriac, which refers to the Eucharist. 

Consequently, liturgical texts are primarily in Syriac, a dialect of Aramaic, and are part of a rich tradition that has been preserved and transmitted over centuries, even amidst significant historical challenges.

Today, the Assyrian Church of the East remains a small (around 400,000 members) but a significant branch of Christianity, with communities in Iraq, Iran, Syria, and a growing diaspora in North America, Europe, and Australia.

While it has faced persecution and displacement, especially in recent decades, the church continues to preserve its distinct theological and liturgical heritage.

After a careful examination of the key features within the five major branches of Christianity, it's time to immerse ourselves in the different sub-branches. As there are no sub-branches of the Roman Catholic church, we'll begin with the Protestant tradition!

Branches of Christianity Within the Protestant Tradition

The Catholic Church of the Late Middle Ages differed significantly from its form in Late Antiquity. It was structured as a hierarchy led by the pope, with each bishop overseeing his diocese. Additionally, the Church amassed considerable wealth and wielded secular power, which was especially evident in the pope’s governance over the Papal States.

The clergy maintained a distinct separation from the laity in lifestyle, legal standing, attire, and language, with Latin reserved for the clergy, while the laity spoke in the vernacular. Furthermore, laypeople typically received communion only once a year and under the species of bread alone, whereas the clergy frequently took communion, receiving both bread and wine.

The famous Italian poet Petrarca sharply criticized the Church's opulence and secular entanglements, writing:

However, as Paul Johnson notes, by the end of the 15th century, “it was clear that the old medieval [Catholic] Church, the total society dating from Carolingian times, was breaking up.” This rupture culminated with the emergence of Martin Luther, an Augustinian friar who reshaped the religious landscape of Europe! 

In 1517, Luther posted his 95 theses in Latin on the bulletin board of his university in Wittenberg, Germany. Within a year, he re-established the church in Wittenberg along distinctly Protestant lines.

Although Luther initially envisioned a unified Church faithful to what he saw as the teachings of Jesus and the apostles, Protestantism soon split into several branches of Christianity, each becoming its independent denomination. Some of these are among the most well-established branches of Christianity in the U.S. In what follows, we’ll take a closer look at the most significant of these branches. 

#6 - Lutheranism

Central to Lutheran theology is the doctrine of justification by faith alone (“sola fide”), which asserts that salvation is achieved through faith in Jesus Christ rather than through good works or church-mediated sacraments. Luther also emphasized “sola scriptura,” the belief that the Bible is the ultimate authority in matters of faith, challenging the Catholic reliance on both Scripture and Church Tradition.

Lutheranism also developed a simplified liturgy, with services held in the vernacular to ensure accessibility for all believers. Its emphasis on congregational singing and biblical preaching transformed worship practices across Europe.

Lutheran Churches of the Early Modern Era (17th and 18th centuries) engaged with contemporary culture in a specific way. Thomas Kaufmann explains: 

Structurally, Lutheran churches today are typically organized under regional synods rather than a central hierarchy, reflecting Lutheranism’s early advocacy for a more decentralized church model.

Today, Lutheranism remains a prominent Christian tradition, especially in Germany, Scandinavia, and the United States, with the total number of adherents estimated between 70 to 90 million worldwide. 

#7 - Calvinism

Calvinism, named after the theologian John Calvin and also known as Reformed Christianity, is a major branch of Protestant Christianity. It emerged during the Reformation in the 16th century, particularly through Calvin’s influential work in Geneva, where he established a theocratic government and reformed the city’s religious practices.

Calvin’s writings, especially Institutes of the Christian Religion, provided a systematic theological foundation that shaped Protestant thought across Europe, influencing countries including Switzerland, France, the Netherlands, and Scotland.

In Protestantism: A Very Short Introduction, Mark A. Noll notes:

Moreover, Calvinism’s theological framework is famously articulated in the “Five Points of Calvinism” (often remembered by the acronym TULIP): Total Depravity, Unconditional Election, Limited Atonement, Irresistible Grace, and Perseverance of the Saints.

In addition to its theological features, Calvinism places a strong focus on simple and scripture-centered worship, often characterized by minimalistic services that emphasize preaching and hymn singing. Its influence, as Max Weber famously proposed, has been significant in shaping Protestant ethics, particularly in promoting values such as hard work, discipline, and stewardship.

In the centuries after Calvin’s death, his ideas spread widely in regions such as Switzerland, the Netherlands, and Scotland, and continue to influence Reformed churches around the world today, particularly in North America and parts of Europe. Today, there are around 80 million Calvinists in the world! 

#8 - Anglicanism: Between Lutheranism and the Catholic Tradition

Anglicanism emerged in the 16th century as a distinct branch of Christianity amid England’s complex religious and political landscape. The Church of England’s official separation from the Roman Catholic Church, initiated by King Henry VIII, was driven initially by political motivations rather than theological reform. 

However, under subsequent monarchs and influenced by Protestant reformers, Anglicanism developed its theological and liturgical identity. 

The English Reformation was formalized by the Act of Supremacy (1534), which recognized the monarch as the Supreme Head of the Church of England, and by the establishment of the Book of Common Prayer under Thomas Cranmer, which became central to Anglican worship.

Anglicanism’s foundational beliefs strike a balance between Catholic and Protestant traditions, often referred to as the “middle way.” Anglicans affirm core Christian doctrines, such as the Trinity, the divinity of Christ, and salvation through grace, while emphasizing both Scripture and tradition as sources of authority.

In The Oxford History of Anglicanism, Anthony Milton provides the essence of this branch of Christianity noting: 

Anglicanism’s unique blend of tradition and adaptability has allowed it to expand globally (around 85 million members), forming a diverse communion of churches united by common worship and the historic episcopate rather than strict doctrinal conformity.

#9 - Baptists: Another Branch of (Protestant) Christianity

The Baptist tradition emerged in the early 17th century as part of the broader Protestant movement, initially among English Separatists who sought greater freedom in worship and governance. Rejecting the established Church of England, early Baptists advocated for a return to New Testament principles, emphasizing believers' baptism (baptism only of professing Christians) rather than infant baptism, which they viewed as unscriptural.

Mark A. Noll notes that “the rise of the Baptists was particularly significant since they represented the sharpest challenge in England to the Christendom ideal. Baptists included both Calvinists, who stressed divine sovereignty in salvation, and Arminians, who followed the path of Jacob Arminius in giving more weight to the human role in redemption.”

Foundational to Baptist theology is the belief in “soul competency” and the “priesthood of all believers,” which asserts that each individual can directly relate to God without ecclesiastical intermediaries. Baptists also adhere to “sola scriptura” (“scripture alone”) as the ultimate authority in matters of faith, with local congregations exercising full autonomy in governance.

Additionally, Baptists observe the Lord’s Supper as an ordinance rather than a sacrament, viewing it as a symbolic act of remembrance rather than a means of imparting grace. According to the Baptist World Alliance website, there are more than 50 million Baptist Christians in the world today! 

#10 - Methodists: A Revival Branch of (Protestant) Christianity

Methodism began in the 18th century as a revival movement within the Church of England, led by John Wesley and his brother Charles Wesley. Concerned with the perceived spiritual complacency of the time, the Wesleys emphasized a personal, heartfelt faith and practical holiness, organizing small groups for prayer, Bible study, and mutual accountability.

Referring to the importance of John Wesley, Mark A. Noll asserts:

Methodism spread rapidly across England and, later, the American colonies, where it became a significant force in the First and Second Great Awakenings, fostering a passionate, evangelical approach to Christianity. 

At the heart of Methodist belief is the concept of “grace” — understood as prevenient (grace preceding faith), justifying (grace in salvation), and sanctifying (grace that leads to personal holiness). Methodists uphold “sola scriptura” as the foundation of faith, while also valuing tradition, reason, and personal experience.

Unlike many Protestant traditions, Methodism emphasizes a process of sanctification, or spiritual growth, where believers strive toward perfection in love through God’s grace. Distinctive practices include open-air preaching, an emphasis on hymns (many composed by Charles Wesley), and small group fellowship.

In his scholarly article “The Methodist Doctrine of Christian Perfection”, Joseph W. Cunningham explains:

Finally, Methodists’ commitment to social justice, reflected in its historical involvement in abolitionism, education, and healthcare, has also been central to its identity and mission worldwide. According to the Encyclopedia Britannica, “The World Methodist Council”, an association of churches in the Methodist tradition, comprises more than 40.5 million Methodists in 138 countries.

#11 - Pentecostalism

With Pentecostalism, we come to the last branch of Christianity within the Protestant tradition. At least, the last we’ll cover in this article. Needless to say, there are other important branches, but they are beyond our limits. 

Pentecostalism emerged in the early 20th century as part of a revivalist movement within Christianity, originating primarily in the United States. The movement is often traced back to the “Azusa Street Revival” of 1906 in Los Angeles, led by William J. Seymour, where worshippers reported experiencing spiritual gifts, such as speaking in tongues (glossolalia), healing, and prophecy.

This branch of Christianity in the U.S., emphasizes a personal and direct experience with the Holy Spirit. Foundational beliefs include salvation through faith in Jesus Christ, the authority of the Bible, and the expectation of the imminent return of Christ.

However, what makes Pentecostals truly different from other branches of Christianity is their particular focus on the “gifts of the Spirit” (charismata), especially speaking in tongues, healing, and miracles, which are seen as the signs of the Spirit’s presence and activity.

Finally, Pentecostal churches generally uphold two ordinances: Water baptism by immersion and communion, viewing these as symbolic rather than sacramental. 

Today, Pentecostalism continues to thrive globally, especially in Africa, Latin America, and Asia.

As of 2010, there were more than 92 million Pentecostals in the world, according to the collection of scholarly essays titled Spirit and Power: The Growth and Global Impact of Pentecostalism.

Branches of Christianity Within the Eastern Orthodoxy

Beginning in 1054, Eastern Orthodoxy represented the second major stream of Christianity. However, unlike Roman Catholicism, and due to different organizational and social causes, it never developed as the unified (one) Church. In what follows, we’ll take a brief look at the couple of notable branches of Christianity that emerged within the Eastern Orthodox tradition.

#12 - Greek Orthodox Church

The Greek Orthodox Church, one of the oldest Christian traditions, traces its origins to the early apostolic communities in the Eastern Roman (Byzantine) Empire, particularly within Greece and Asia Minor. Historically, it has been closely tied to the Byzantine Empire, with significant influence from the Greek language and culture shaping its theology, liturgy, and ecclesiastical structure.

After the fall of Constantinople in 1453, Greek Orthodoxy continued to thrive under Ottoman rule, where it maintained a strong cultural identity and preserved Greek heritage through its monasteries and liturgical life.

Today, the Greek Orthodox Church is prominent in Greece, Cyprus, and parts of the Eastern Mediterranean, with diaspora communities around the world, including the United States. In his book The Greek Orthodox Church in America, Alexander Kitroeff notes: 

Greek Orthodox worship is characterized by a deeply traditional liturgy that emphasizes the mystery of the divine. The Divine Liturgy of St. John Chrysostom forms the core of its worship, featuring elaborate chants, incense, icon veneration, and processions.

Greek Orthodoxy also emphasizes fasting, frequent participation in the sacraments (especially the Eucharist), and the annual observance of a liturgical calendar that focuses on the major feast days, especially Pascha (Easter).

#13 - Russian Orthodox Church

As the largest branch of Christianity within the Eastern tradition, the Russian Orthodox Church developed its distinct identity following the Christianization of Kyivan Rus’ (the first East Slavic state) in 988 C.E., an event traditionally attributed to Prince Vladimir.

His importance extends beyond mere Christianization. In A Concise History of the Russian Orthodox Church, Neil Kent notes:

Following the fall of Constantinople in 1453, Moscow began to see itself as the “Third Rome,” a concept symbolizing its role as the spiritual successor to Byzantine Orthodoxy. 

Over time, the Russian Orthodox Church became intertwined with the Russian state in a relationship that historian George Ostrogotsky called “the caesaropapism”). This symbiotic relationship has continued to shape its identity, especially during periods of both czarist and Soviet rule.

Russian Orthodox worship is renowned for its solemn and elaborate liturgies, often held in richly adorned churches filled with icons and frescoes. The Divine Liturgy of St. John Chrysostom is central, with distinctive elements such as extended chanting, congregational singing, and the use of Old Church Slavonic.

This liturgical language, rooted in the early Slavic Christian tradition, highlights the cultural identity of the Russian Orthodox Church and reveals a deep relationship between the Eastern Orthodoxy and the Russian national identity. 

Moreover, the veneration of icons also plays a central role in Russian spirituality, and Orthodox icons in Russia have developed a unique aesthetic, heavily influenced by Russian artistic traditions.

The Church itself claims to have about 80 million members, but that’s almost certainly an overestimate. The true number is around 40 million with perhaps 4 to 7 million practicing believers (those who regularly attend church services).

#14 - Serbian Orthodox Church

The Serbian Orthodox Church traces its origins to the early Christian communities in the Balkans, with its formal establishment as an autocephalous church in 1219 by Saint Sava, the first Archbishop of Serbia. This independence allowed the church to develop a strong national identity, deeply intertwined with the Serbian state and culture. 

Throughout its history, the Serbian Orthodox Church has played a central role in preserving the Serbian language, traditions, and identity, particularly during periods of Ottoman rule and later under Communist Yugoslavia, when the church became a symbol of national resilience and continuity.

As historian Radoslav Grujić notes in his book Pravoslavna srpska crkva (Serbian Orthodox Church): 

The liturgical life of the Serbian Orthodox Church is rich with unique practices that blend Byzantine and Slavic elements. 

The Divine Liturgy of St. John Chrysostom is central to worship, accompanied by a capella choral singing that reflects the traditional Serbian style. Icons and frescoes are prominent in Serbian Orthodox churches, with a distinctive Serbian artistic style that evolved through centuries of influence from Byzantine iconography and regional folk art.

Cultural observances, such as “Slava” (the veneration of family saints), are unique to Serbian Orthodoxy which highlights the church's role in family and social life. These events represent important celebration moments and define the cultural identity of the Serbian people! 

#15 - Bulgarian Orthodox Church

As one of the important branches of Christianity, the Bulgarian Orthodox Church is among the oldest Slavic Orthodox communities. Its origin goes back to the Christianization of Bulgaria in the 9th century under Tsar Boris I. This conversion marked Bulgaria as a significant early Christian kingdom and aligned it with the Byzantine Empire.

In 927, the church gained autocephalous status, with the establishment of the Bulgarian Patriarchate further asserting its independence and cultural identity.

Despite enduring political upheavals, including centuries under Ottoman rule and later Communist repression, the Bulgarian Orthodox Church remained a vital institution, playing a key role in preserving the Bulgarian language, literature, and traditions.

Bulgarian Orthodox worship follows the traditional Eastern Orthodox liturgy, particularly the Divine Liturgy of St. John Chrysostom, and includes distinct cultural expressions within Slavic Orthodox practices. Moreover, liturgical services occur in Old Church Slavonic, with occasional use of the Bulgarian language.

#16 - Romanian Orthodox Church

Unlike most other Orthodox churches, which are rooted in Slavic or Greek traditions, the Romanian Orthodox Church emerged in the Latin-speaking region of Dacia, influenced by both Eastern Orthodox Christianity and its Latin heritage.

As Timothy Ware explains:

The church received the status of an autocephalous church in 1885 and was recognized as a patriarchate in 1925. 

Throughout its history, especially during Ottoman rule and later under Communist oppression, the Romanian Orthodox Church has played a central role in preserving the Romanian language, culture, and identity and has become a symbol of national resilience and unity.

As you can imagine, Romanian Orthodox worship retains traditional Eastern Orthodox elements, with a distinctive cultural touch that reflects the country’s Latin and Byzantine heritage.

Additionally, unique customs, such as the widespread celebration of Sfântul Andrei (Saint Andrew), the patron saint of Romania, and the observance of traditional Orthodox fasting periods, highlight the church’s deep integration into Romanian cultural life.

#17 - Georgian Orthodox Church

The Georgian Orthodox Church is one of the world’s oldest Christian traditions, deriving its origins from the 4th century, when Christianity was established as the state religion of the ancient Kingdom of Iberia (modern-day eastern Georgia).

According to the later tradition/legend, St. Nino of Cappadocia played a central role in converting the Georgian people, making the Georgian Orthodox Church a uniquely indigenous Christian presence within the Caucasus region.

Throughout its history, the church has maintained its distinct identity despite periods of Persian, Ottoman, and Russian domination. The church also faced significant repression during Soviet (communist) rule.

Ware explains the social and political circumstances following the establishment of the communist regimes in the East: 

However, the Church in Georgia experienced a major revival following the state’s independence in the 1990s, and it remains a powerful symbol of Georgian national and cultural identity.

Furthermore, cultural observances, such as the celebrations of St. Nino's Day and Mtskhetoba (a festival honoring Mtskheta, Georgia’s ancient capital and spiritual center), underscore the church’s role in Georgia’s national life. 

#18 - Antiochian Orthodox Church

With this, we approach the last branch of Christianity within the Eastern tradition that will be covered in this article. The Antiochian Orthodox Church claims to be a descendant of the early Christian community in Antioch — an influential Christian center from the beginnings of the new religion! 

Despite various political upheavals, including periods under Roman, Byzantine, Islamic, and Ottoman rule, the Antiochian Church has preserved its heritage, maintaining a strong Orthodox Christian presence in the Levant. 

Today, the church’s influence extends to the Middle East, especially in Syria and Lebanon, and to a growing diaspora community in North America and Australia. Liturgical practices in the Antiochian Orthodox Church reflect both the broader Orthodox tradition and distinctive regional elements.

The Divine Liturgy of St. John Chrysostom remains central, with services typically conducted in Arabic or the local vernacular, incorporating chants and hymns rooted in ancient Byzantine music but adapted to Middle Eastern styles.

Finally, unique traditions, such as the celebration of St. George, a patron saint widely revered in the Middle East, and the observance of local feast days, highlight the Antiochian Church’s deep cultural ties to the region. 

Branches of Christianity Within the Oriental Orthodoxy

In this section, we focus on the sub-branches of Oriental Orthodoxy, a group of ancient Christian communities that developed distinct traditions and identities within the broader framework of the Oriental Orthodox Church.

#19 - Coptic Orthodox Church

The Coptic Orthodox Church claims its origins in the 1st century C.E., asserting that the evangelist and first bishop Mark in Alexandria founded it. However, critical scholars assert a lack of evidence for that tradition, concluding that “we have no contemporary [papyri] witnesses to pre-Demetrian (189-232 C.E.) Christianity to provide a background for his era.”

Emerging within a Greco-Roman and Egyptian cultural context, the church developed a distinctive theological identity, particularly after rejecting the Council of Chalcedon in 451 C.E. This separation arose due to differences in Christological doctrine, with the Coptic Church embracing miaphysitism, the belief in a single, united nature of Christ that is both fully divine and fully human.

The Coptic Orthodox Church is known for its ancient liturgical practices and deep cultural integration within Egyptian society. The Divine Liturgy of St. Basil is central to worship, conducted in Coptic (an ancient Egyptian language with Greek influence) and Arabic, connecting believers to their historical roots.

In modern Egypt, the Coptic Church plays a crucial role in maintaining Egyptian Christian identity, serving as a spiritual and cultural foundation for the Coptic community. Unfortunately, the number of Coptic Christians in Egypt is declining. As of 2011, roughly 5% of the population belongs to the Coptic Church.

#20 - Armenian Apostolic Church

The Armenian Apostolic Church, one of the earliest established Christian communities, claims that it dates back to the apostolic age (1st century C.E.). According to later tradition/legend, apostles Thaddeus and Bartholomew founded the Church through their missionary efforts. It must be emphasized that this is more a legend than authentic history. 

What is, however, historically verifiable is the fact that Armenia holds the distinction of being the first nation to adopt Christianity as its official religion in 301 C.E., under the leadership of St. Gregory the Illuminator. In other words, it became a Christian nation even before Constantine’s conversion in 312 C.E.

After rejecting the Council of Chalcedon in 451 C.E., the Armenian Church adopted a miaphysite Christology, aligning itself with the Coptic Church in Egypt. 

The Armenian Apostolic Church has preserved its distinct liturgical traditions and deeply embedded role in Armenian culture. Services are often conducted in Classical Armenian, and the Divine Liturgy of St. Gregory the Illuminator is central, featuring ancient chants, incense, and the veneration of relics.

Furthermore, commemorative practices, such as the annual remembrance of the Armenian Genocide (the mass killing and forced deportation of Armenians by the Ottoman Empire during World War I), underscore the church's role as a guardian of national memory and resilience.

With roughly 10 million members today, the Armenian Apostolic Church remains a vital institution for the Armenian people. It fosters a sense of unity and continuity among Armenians both in Armenia and throughout diaspora communities worldwide.

#21 - Ethiopian Orthodox Church

Unique among early Christian communities, the Ethiopian Church, as one of the branches of Christianity, developed largely in isolation, allowing it to preserve ancient Judeo-Christian traditions and practices that reflect a deep cultural integration within Ethiopian society. 

Mary Jo Weaver and David Brakke, in their book Introduction to Christianity, explain: “The church in Ethiopia is as ancient as any in northern Europe: it got its first bishop around 340, developed its distinctive traditions over centuries and now has over thirty million members."

Doctrinally, the Ethiopian Orthodox Church shares the miaphysite Christology common to Oriental Orthodoxy.

Furthermore, Ethiopian Orthodox worship is distinctively rich in ancient rituals, with services conducted in Ge’ez, an ancient Ethiopian language, and characterized by elaborate chanting, drumming, and dancing. The Ethiopian Biblical canon is one of the most extensive, including additional texts such as the Book of Enoch and Jubilees.

Through its distinctive theology, rich liturgical traditions, and integration into Ethiopia’s cultural life, the Ethiopian Orthodox Church continues to be a vital symbol of national identity.

#22 - Syriac Orthodox Church

The Syriac Orthodox Church traces its origins to the early apostolic period, particularly in the ancient city of Antioch, which was, as we already noted, a prominent center of early Christianity. The church formally separated from the wider Christian community following the Council of Chalcedon in 451 CE due to theological disagreements, adopting a miaphysite Christology.

Syriac Orthodox worship is deeply rooted in ancient liturgical traditions, with services conducted in Classical Syriac, a dialect of Aramaic — the language Jesus spoke. Liturgical practices are rich with distinctive chants, incense, and icon veneration, creating a sense of continuity with early Christian worship. The church places significant emphasis on the role of saints, particularly St. Ephrem the Syrian, a revered theologian and hymnographer.

#23 - Malankara Orthodox Syrian Church

The Malankara Orthodox Syrian Church originated from the missionary efforts of St. Thomas who, according to later legends, brought Christianity to India.

As Robert E. Frykenberg explains in the book A World History of Christianity:

The earliest written record of the Apostle Thomas’ missionary activities in India is found in the Acts of Thomas. 

Although the origins, original language, and provenance of this document are unknown, its oldest extant versions, preserved in Syriac, trace back to fourth-century Edessa. Scholars believe that, based on its content and contextual details, the Acts of Thomas could have been composed as early as the 2nd century. 

Nevertheless, most critical scholars accept the legendary nature of this account concluding that we have zero certain evidence of what happened to the famous disciple after Jesus’ death. 

By the 17th century, the Malankara Church formed a closer association with the Syriac Orthodox Church of Antioch, adopting West Syriac liturgical practices and affirming a miaphysite Christology. 

Distinctive in both theology and liturgy, the Malankara Orthodox Syrian Church conducts its services in Malayalam and Syriac, incorporating traditional West Syriac chants and rituals that reflect a unique Indian Orthodox identity.

Finally, strongly integrated into Kerala’s social and cultural fabric, the church upholds practices such as fasting, saint veneration, and observance of feast days, with a special devotion to St. Thomas. 

Branches of Christianity Within the Assyrian Church of the East

As we reach the final branch on this extensive journey through the many branches of Christianity, you might be wondering, “Is there really more?” Indeed, there is! This last stop takes us to the unique world of the Assyrian Church of the East and its sub-branches. Let’s wrap up with a look at this ancient tradition and the rich history it brings to our exploration.

Chaldean Syrian Church (Bonus Branch)

The Chaldean Syrian Church derives from the ancient Christian communities that emerged within the Persian Empire. This branch specifically developed among the Assyrian communities in India, tracing its roots to missionary efforts by early East Syrian Christians. 

As you can imagine, the Chaldean Syrian Church has particular ties to the heritage of St. Thomas the Apostle who, as we mentioned, according to later tradition, brought Christianity to India. 

In terms of doctrine, the Chaldean Syrian Church upholds the theological traditions of the Assyrian Church of the East, notably adhering to dyophysitism, which, as noted, teaches that Christ has two distinct natures, divine and human, united in one person.

The church’s festivals, hymns, and veneration of saints such as St. Thomas form an integral part of community life and reflect the blending of East Syrian Christian practices with local Indian cultural elements.

The Chaldean Syrian Church thus serves as a cultural and spiritual anchor for its members, which number around 15,000. 

Branches of Christianity Timeline

Instead of concluding our long journey through the branches of Christianity with a traditional summary, we decided to provide a visual timeline of key events. This timeline captures the origins and significant milestones for each of the five major branches. Enjoy!

We've reached the end of our exploration through the many branches of Christianity. We hope this extensive article serves as a valuable resource for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of the world’s most widespread religion and its diverse traditions.