Finding a church family
Christian church traditions, explained
Different traditions, a shared centre
A denomination is a family of churches with shared beliefs and ways of organising worship. The historic Christian traditions below confess one God, Father, Son and Holy Spirit, and Jesus Christ’s death and resurrection. They differ on important questions, including authority, baptism, Communion and church leadership.
This is an introduction, not a ranking. Individual churches vary, even within the same tradition. You can ask questions, take your time and visit more than one.
Is Orthodox Christian the same as Orthodox Jewish?
No. Orthodox Christianity is Christian and worships Jesus Christ. Orthodox Judaism is a Jewish tradition, usually gathering in a synagogue, and does not recognise Jesus as the Messiah or God incarnate.
The word “orthodox” is used in different religions; it does not mean they are the same faith. A synagogue is not a Christian church. Jewish communities deserve respect, and a map listing may need checking before you visit.
What might a visit be like?
Choose a name to read more. These are typical patterns, not promises about every congregation.
Anglican
In England, this often means the Church of England. Anglican churches combine Scripture, historic Christian creeds and shared prayers, with bishops overseeing church life.
Your first visit: Some services are quiet and traditional, with robes, hymns and Holy Communion. Others have contemporary music and informal prayer. Ask which service is most suitable for a first visit.
Church of England (opens in a new tab)Roman Catholic
Catholics belong to a worldwide church in communion with the Pope. Scripture, sacred tradition and the sacraments are central to their life of faith.
Your first visit: The main service is Mass, with readings, prayers and the Eucharist. Visitors can attend, but receiving Communion is normally for Catholics who meet the Church's requirements. Ask what to do at Communion.
Catholic Bishops' Conference of England and Wales (opens in a new tab)Orthodox Christian
Eastern Orthodox churches include Greek, Russian and Antiochian churches. Oriental Orthodox churches, such as Coptic and Armenian churches, are a distinct ancient Christian family. Both worship Jesus Christ, but they are not the same church communion.
Your first visit: Services often include icons, incense, chanted prayers and a liturgy, meaning an established order of worship. You may stand for much of the service. Ask about the language and Communion customs before visiting.
Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of Thyateira and Great Britain (opens in a new tab)Baptist
Baptist churches emphasise personal faith in Jesus, the Bible and baptism for people who profess faith, usually by full immersion. Local congregations often make their own decisions.
Your first visit: Expect Bible teaching, prayer and singing, often in a fairly informal setting. Communion practices and styles vary, so ask the local church.
Baptists Together (opens in a new tab)Methodist
Methodism grew from the work of John and Charles Wesley. It emphasises God's grace, growth in holiness, service to others and shared church life.
Your first visit: Services often include hymns or contemporary songs, Bible readings, a sermon and prayer. Holy Communion is offered regularly, and styles vary by congregation.
The Methodist Church (opens in a new tab)Pentecostal
Pentecostal churches emphasise faith in Jesus, the authority of Scripture and the active work of the Holy Spirit, including spiritual gifts such as tongues and healing prayer. Elim and Assemblies of God are examples in the UK.
Your first visit: Worship is often expressive, with contemporary music and spontaneous prayer. You might see raised hands or hear people pray in tongues. You can observe without copying others; healing prayer is not a guarantee or a substitute for medical care.
Elim (opens in a new tab)Presbyterian and Reformed
These traditions emphasise God's grace and sovereignty, biblical teaching and church leadership by elders. The Church of Scotland is Presbyterian; the United Reformed Church draws on several related traditions.
Your first visit: Bible readings and a sermon often have a central place. Services may be traditional or contemporary, with prayer, singing and Communion on particular Sundays.
Church of Scotland (opens in a new tab)Independent and non-denominational
An independent church is not necessarily part of a large denomination. Many are evangelical or charismatic, but the label alone does not tell you their beliefs, leadership or accountability.
Your first visit: Style varies widely. Read the statement of faith and ask who oversees the leaders, how safeguarding works and what happens when someone raises a concern.
Fellowship of Independent Evangelical Churches (one network, not all independent churches) (opens in a new tab)Other words you may see
Protestant is a broad family including Anglican, Baptist, Methodist, Reformed and Pentecostal traditions, not one worship style.
Evangelical usually means an emphasis on the Bible, personal faith in Jesus and sharing the gospel. It can describe churches in several denominations.
Charismatic describes an emphasis on the Holy Spirit and spiritual gifts. You can find charismatic Anglican, Catholic and independent churches, as well as Pentecostal churches.
Church can mean a building or the people who gather. A Christian congregation might meet in a school or community centre, not a traditional church building.
“Where would I feel at home?”
Would quiet, structured prayers help you, or a more informal service? Do you need children’s activities, step-free access or someone to meet you at the door? These are good questions, alongside what a church believes and how it cares for people.
- “I’m new to church. Which service would you suggest, and could someone welcome me?”
- “What do you believe about Jesus and the Bible? Is there somewhere I can ask questions?”
- “What happens during Communion, and what should a visitor do?”
- “Who is your safeguarding contact? What support is available for children or vulnerable adults?”
You do not have to give money, share private details, join immediately or take part in anything you are uncomfortable with. A healthy welcome leaves room for questions and respects your boundaries.
Find a church family near meThis short guide cannot cover every Christian community or every theological difference. The linked church bodies explain their own traditions in more detail. Check beliefs, service times, accessibility and safeguarding directly with the church before visiting. Abide does not endorse an individual congregation.