SERA Cycle 1 Introduction and Courses

Project n° 580247-EPP-1-2016-1-FR-EPPKA3-IPI-SOC-IN All religious articles are produced b y Celine Provini, EducationWorld Editor , Education World® Copyright © 2013 Education World CHRISTIANITY Christianity is the world's largest religion, with about 2.1 billion followers throughout the globe. Under the umbrella of Christianity, there are hundreds of denominations such as Roman Catholic Christian, Protestant Christian such as Baptist, Methodist, Lutheran or one of many others. Each denomination may have somewhat different practices, even though it shares beliefs common to most Christians. Christians believe that there is only one god, but that there are three elements of God, including the Father, Son and Holy Spirit. They also believe that 2,000 years ago in what is now Israel, God sent his son, Jesus Christ, to earth to save humans from the consequences of their sins (wrongdoings in the eyes of God). Christians believe that Jesus gave his life by being crucified (nailed to a wood cross) and on the third day rose from the dead (was resurrected). The Christian holy book is called the Bible. Some religious observa nces: Christmas Time of Year: December 25. For Christians, Christmas is a holy day that marks the birth of Jesus, believed to be the son of God. Many non- Christians also observe with secular (non-religious) festivities. Although they differ around the world, some common ways of observing the holiday include attendi ng worship services , hosting g atherings with family and friends, feasting and exchanging gifts. Many decorate for the holiday using lights, Christmas (fir) trees, Nativity Scenes (displays depicting the birth of Jesus), and images of Santa Claus, a character of legend who is believed to bring gifts to children.