Christianity: Core beliefs, worship, and how to explore it

More than two billion people call themselves Christian, yet Christianity looks very different depending on where you live, which church you visit, or which Bible translation you read. If you’re curious about what Christians actually believe and do, this page gives clear, practical answers without the jargon.

At the center of Christianity is the belief that Jesus of Nazareth is God’s Son and that his life, death, and resurrection matter for how people relate to God. That basic idea branches into many traditions—Roman Catholic, Eastern Orthodox, and a wide range of Protestant churches are the main families. Each has its own way of worshiping, celebrating sacraments like baptism and communion, and reading scripture.

What Christians read and celebrate

The Bible is the main book for Christians. If you’re new, start with one of the Gospels—Matthew, Mark, Luke, or John—to get Jesus’ story. Acts and some letters (like Paul’s) show how early believers lived and thought. Christian holidays that matter across traditions include Christmas (celebrating Jesus’ birth) and Easter (marking his resurrection). Local churches might add saints’ days, fasts, or festivals depending on tradition.

Worship styles vary a lot. Some churches sing hymns and follow a strict liturgy. Others prefer modern songs and informal talks. Services often include prayer, a reading from the Bible, a sermon, and a chance for community—coffee after the service is as important as the service itself for many people.

How to learn more or try it out

If you want a hands-on way to explore, try visiting different churches for a few Sundays. Most places welcome questions and have short orientation classes for newcomers. Read one of the Gospels slowly—one chapter at a time—and note what stands out. Ask a pastor or a trusted member about basic practices like baptism, communion, and prayer.

Volunteering is a fast way to see a church’s values in action—many communities feed the hungry, help refugees, or run youth programs. If theology feels heavy, focus first on the community side: service, friendship, and honest conversations reveal a lot about faith in everyday life.

Common modern topics in Christianity include how faith relates to science, politics, and social justice. Different churches answer these questions in different ways, so don’t assume a single view represents all Christians. Talk to people, read different voices, and stay open-minded.

Want a simple next step? Attend a service, read one Gospel chapter this week, or ask a local church how they welcome newcomers. Christianity covers a wide range of beliefs and practices—trying a few things will quickly show you what resonates.