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Church Pedigree Frequently Asked Questions and Complaints

My church isn't listed. Why?
It is impossible to list all churches because there are hundreds (some say thousands) of denominations. What is listed are typical churches within the major branches of Christendom in the United States. If you feel that your denomination should be listed, let me know.

Why don't you list... (Latter Day Saints, Jehovah's Witnesses, Christian Scientists, Unification Church, etc?)
I don't want to get into a debate over whether these organizations are Christian or not. The truth of the matter is that these sects have borrowed theology from a number of sources, and/or fabricated their own theologies. As such, a distinct pedigree cannot be ascertained.

Why don't you list Charismatics? Where do Charismatics fit in?
Charismatic churches can be found growing out of nearly all the major branches of Christianity. Most Charismatic movements have been influenced by Pentecostalism, but not all. Additionally, Charismatics tend to pick and choose their theologies from various sources. Thus, it is impossible to create a distinct pedigree for Charismatics.

My church teaches that our lineage reaches directly back to the Apostles, yet you have them listed elsewhere in the table!
For many Christians, apostolic succession is important because Jesus said that he would build a church that even the gates of Hell would not prevail against. Many denominations believe they are the true church, even though they may only be about four hundred years old, or even younger. Without apostolic succession, it would appear that the church was destroyed in the first or second century and only re-emerged during the Reformation. This would make Jesus a fraud. As a result, many churches have invented histories that reach back to the first century. Unfortunately these histories are usually erroneous.

Where can I find out more about Church history?
I highly recommend the Hall of Church History. The only flaw in this site is that it is presented from a strictly Reformed point of view, so there is a definite bias, and an attempt to make the case for apostolic succession from the first century to the Reformation. Still, it is a rich site.

I also recommend the pages at ReligiousTolerance.org. Start with their Christian Sub-Menu.

What flavor of Christian are you?
I am unashamedly Orthodox. If you would like to know more about Orthodox Christianity visit Get To Know The Original, a website which concisely explains the history, theology and traditions of the Orthodox Christian Church.