Before the Reformation: Exploring the Earliest Non-Catholic Churches and Their Divergence from Rome
The history of Christianity is a tapestry woven with diverse threads of faith, tradition, and sometimes, division. While the Roman Catholic Church often takes center stage in historical narratives, it's crucial to recognize the existence and significance of non-Catholic churches that emerged long before the Protestant Reformation. These early churches, with their distinct theologies, practices, and cultural contexts, offer valuable insights into the rich tapestry of early Christian expression. Eastern Orthodox Church: A Legacy of Tradition The Eastern Orthodox Church, often considered the second-largest Christian denomination globally, traces its roots to the earliest days of Christianity. It shares a common heritage with the Roman Catholic Church until the Great Schism of 1054. This schism, a culmination of centuries of growing theological and political tensions, marked a formal separation between the two churches. Key Differences and Reasons for Separation: Authority of the...