The Catholic Church came first.
The Protestant Reformation, which led to the emergence of Protestantism, began in the 16th century. This movement was a response to perceived corruption and doctrinal errors within the Catholic Church.
Key Differences:
- Catholicism is a branch of Christianity that traces its origins back to the early Church, with the Pope in Rome as its head.
- Protestantism is a collective term for various Christian denominations that emerged from the Reformation, rejecting the authority of the Pope and emphasizing the Bible as the sole source of religious authority.
Historical Timeline:
- Early Church: Christianity emerged in the 1st century AD. The early Church gradually developed into the Catholic Church.
- 16th Century: The Protestant Reformation began, led by figures like Martin Luther and John Calvin.
- Present Day: Both Catholicism and Protestantism continue to be major branches of Christianity, with diverse denominations within each.
