Difference Between the Catholic & the Christian Religions
Throughout the centuries, the Christian beliefs have splintered into various groups and denominations. Each denomination has its own set of beliefs and ideas about the Bible. The common denominator of any Christian religion, including Catholicism, is that Jesus was the son of God and lived. All Catholics are Christian but not all Christians are Catholic. Catholicism is one of the several different Christian groups, but many different beliefs separate Catholicism from other Christian religions.
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View of Mary
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In the Catholic religion, Mary is viewed as a divine and holy woman who was without sin. Catholics believe she was resurrected and went to heaven just as Jesus did because she was his mother and a holy saint. Many other Christian groups believe that Mary was an ordinary woman who made mistakes and committed sins. Whether she is viewed as a woman without sin or flaw or she is seen as a woman with some sins depends on the Christian group.
Sacraments
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Catholic beliefs have seven sacraments: baptism, Eucharist, confirmation, matrimony, holy orders, reconciliation and anointing the sick. While many other Christian groups have similar beliefs, such as baptism and communion, there are some aspects of the sacraments that other groups might not follow, such as Eucharist or reconciliation, depending on the group. There is variation among Christian groups on which sacraments are believed, but Catholics are the group that believes all seven.
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Evolution Beliefs
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In the Catholic religion, the idea of evolution is accepted, but the church believes that God makes human souls. Other Christian groups vary in their belief of evolution. Some religious groups, such as Protestants, reject the idea of evolution completely.
Religious Leaders
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In the Catholic church, the ultimate authority of all spirituality resides with the pope. He is the spiritual leader and is considered a spiritual descendant of St. Peter. Other Christian groups typically allows individual interpretation of the Bible and do not have an ultimate authority, though leaders are available for guidance, such as reverends or pastors.
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References
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