Dictionary of Christian Denominations

(Hardback)

Publishing Details

Classifications

Physical Properties

Description

Contrary to Jesus' wish that his followers 'may all be one', Christianity has become, over time, ever more schismatic. This concise, one-volume dictionary provides information on over a thousand significant denominations and movements, ranging from the mainstream historical churches, for example Roman Catholic and Orthodox, to heretical sects that flourished briefly in the third or fourth centuries to groups that sprang up around charismatic leaders in the nineteenth and twentieth centuries. Alternatives names are given at the end of entries and are cross-referenced in an Appendix. Such groups include the delightfully named 'Body-felt Salvation Church' in the Torres Strait Islands, with 300 members, and the 'Old Catholic Orthodox Church,' founded in London by (and apparently for) the Most Reverend James Bartholomew Banks, 'known to his friends as 'Piggy' on account of the happy conjunction of his vast inherited wealth and his surname'. The author approaches what might in other hands be a dull catalogue with considerable zest and obvious enjoyment, and the result is a mine of good stories and useful information.

Reviews

"For the average person trying to understand the diversity of Christian denominations and sects, Peter Day's A Dictionary of Christian Denominations provides a comprehensive overview of these groups...This work is recommended for public, community college, college, and university libraries." -35th Annual American Reference Books Annual, 2004
"...a helpful guide to a range of Christian churches and movements, both contemporary and historic...a welcome resource..." - International Bulletin of Missionary Research, Vol. 28, No. 3, 7/04 -- Mark A. Noll * International Bulletin of Missionary Research *

Author Bio

Peter Day was born in Australia and educated at Sydney and Queensland universities before moving to England. A member of the Russian Orthodox Church, he has been engaged in education and has taught at a major Roman Catholic diocesan seminary.