About this video

• Video Title: I Went to Every Christian Denomination's Church
• Channel: Evan Raugust
• Speakers: Evan Raugust
• Duration: 00:10:43

Overview

This video documents the creator's experience visiting churches from various Christian denominations over two months. The purpose is to explore and highlight the unique characteristics, worship styles, and theological differences of each denomination.

Key takeaways

• Baptist Church: Characterized by a grand but simple building, a band-led worship with congregational singing, a 30-minute sermon connecting the Bible to everyday life, and an emphasis on a personal relationship with Jesus, often involving an "altar call." Communion is celebrated monthly and viewed as symbolic.
• Orthodox Church: Described as feeling like stepping into another century, with candles, people making the sign of the cross, and the smell of incense. Services are called the "Divine Liturgy," involve priests in elaborate robes and an "iconoasis" (wall of icons), and focus on the Eucharist as the literal body and blood of Jesus, celebrated frequently.
• Anglican Church: Positions itself as a middle ground, using the Book of Common Prayer for a structured service with group recitations. Communion is believed to be where Jesus is spiritually present. The music is traditional and reverent.
• Pentecostal Church: Features high-energy worship with loud music, drums, electric guitars, and choirs. It's noted for spontaneous, passionate sermons and practices like speaking in tongues, stemming from a belief in the active presence of the Holy Spirit. "Alter ministry" involves prayer with hands laid on individuals.
• Presbyterian Church: Described as simple and clean, with hymns and scripture readings. The theology is God-centered, emphasizing that God does all salvation. Governance is by councils of elders, reflecting Christ as the sole monarch.
• Messianic Jewish Church: A unique blend where Jewish traditions meet the belief that Jesus is God. Services include Hebrew elements, upbeat music, and celebrations like a "b mitzvah." They focus on how Jesus fulfills Jewish festivals.
• Lutheran Church: Resembles Anglican churches with pews, stained glass, and an altar. Services follow a liturgy with structured responses. Communion is taken seriously, believing in the "real presence" of Jesus in the bread and wine.
• Non-denominational Megaurch (Watermark): Features a large, modern facility with stadium seating, LED screens, and a concert-like atmosphere for worship. The pastor's message is delivered in a casual style, borrowing elements from Baptist churches.
• Methodist Church: Embodies a classic church image with a white steeple and traditional interior. It fosters a strong sense of community with warm greetings and traditional hymns led by a choir. Bibles are provided in the pews.
• Charismatic Church (Upper Room): Known for its powerful music and a palpable sense of the Holy Spirit, with congregants often on their knees in prayer. Communion is preceded by recited affirmations of its importance. Prayer teams are available after the service.
• Catholic Church: The service, called the "Mass," is highly participatory with a set structure including scripture readings, prayers, and the Eucharist. It emphasizes the transformation of bread and wine into the literal body and blood of Jesus and connects worshippers to the global body of Christ.