Christianity: Beliefs and Practices — CSEC Religious Education

Christianity is a monotheistic religion centred on the life, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ.

Core beliefs

Belief in one God revealed as Father, Son and Holy Spirit (the Trinity).
Jesus Christ is the Son of God, who was crucified and rose from the dead (the resurrection), offering salvation.
The Bible (Old and New Testaments) is the sacred scripture.
Belief in life after death.

Moral teaching

Jesus summarised the law in the two greatest commandments: love God, and "love your neighbour as yourself." The Ten Commandments and teachings such as the Sermon on the Mount guide Christian living.

Worship and practices

Christians worship in a church, often on Sunday.
Baptism uses water to symbolise cleansing and entry into the faith.
Holy Communion (the Eucharist) uses bread and wine to remember the Last Supper of Jesus.
Worship includes prayer, hymns, Bible reading and preaching.

Festivals

Christmas — celebrates the birth of Jesus.
Easter — celebrates the resurrection of Jesus (the most important festival).
Lent, Good Friday and Pentecost are also observed.

Symbol

The cross represents the crucifixion of Jesus and is the central Christian symbol.

Exam tips

The Trinity = Father, Son and Holy Spirit.
Sacred book = Bible; place of worship = church.
Christmas = birth of Jesus; Easter = resurrection.
Key practices: baptism and Holy Communion.