What is the difference between non-denomination and inter-denominational?

[dms1972]

I see these two terms used at times. I just use the term non-denominational at the moment because I haven't settled on any particular church (not because I have anything against denominational churches) - I am not fussed on defining myself by a group however.

But I guess there are groups, that might term themselves non-denominational. However I am nearly sure I have heard inter-denominational used to describe some churches. But I find it kind of puzzling to hear a church that people regularly attend described interdenominational - I can understand it in terms of describing an occasional one-off event that draws people from various denominations, who will never-the-less go back to their own church denomination again after it is over.

What is the correct use of these terms?

 

[dms1972]

Another difficulty surrounds the term "Catholic". Nowadays its often used as shorthand (ie. 'a catholic', 'the Catholic Church') for Roman Catholic. But it seems to have a somewhat different meaning for other theologians - who seem to use the term to refer to all visible churches.

 

[FireDragon76]

There are typically more interdenominational churches among the Protestant mainline. Like the community church movement of earlier times, its a way to consolidate resources for shared mission. Typically what you will see are PC-USA, TEC, or ELCA ministering together.

An example would be a church like House for All Sinners and Saints in Denver. It used to have an ELCA pastor, but now the pastor is TEC (Episcopalian). It still affiliates with the ELCA's synod, however.

 

[thecolorsblend]

Another difficulty surrounds the term "Catholic". Nowadays its often used as shorthand (ie. 'a catholic', 'the Catholic Church') for Roman Catholic. But it seems to have a somewhat different meaning for other theologians.

If it helps, the correct usage is typically "Catholic" with a big "c" to refer to members of the Catholic Church while "catholic" with a little "c" is used in a more general way.

Honestly, the same issue sometimes faces the Orthodox Church (big "o") as well as "orthodox", again, in a more general sense.

 

[dms1972]

If it helps, the correct usage is typically "Catholic" with a big "c" to refer to members of the Catholic Church while "catholic" with a little "c" is used in a more general way.

Honestly, the same issue sometimes faces the Orthodox Church (big "o") as well as "orthodox", again, in a more general sense.

Yes I agree its similiar in regard to Orthodox.

But it still using the term in a confusing manner - saying 'Catholic Church' when what is meant is Roman Catholic (ie those that recognise the See of Rome).

 

[thecolorsblend]

Yes I agree its similiar in regard to Orthodox.

But it still using the term in a confusing manner - saying 'Catholic Church' when what is meant is Roman Catholic (ie those that recognise the See of Rome).

I understand that. But Roman Catholic isn’t very helpful either because there are different types of Catholics. One of my favorite YouTube personalities is Byzantine Catholic, for example. Also, in a few weeks I was thinking about visiting a nearby Maronite Catholic parish.

There’s more to the Catholic world than being Roman Catholic is my point.

 

[dms1972]

I understand that. But Roman Catholic isn’t very helpful either because there are different types of Catholics. One of my favorite YouTube personalities is Byzantine Catholic, for example. Also, in a few weeks I was thinking about visiting a nearby Maronite Catholic parish.

I think I get what you are saying. Though I had been thinking of Roman Catholic as a proper title. But after doing a bit of reading I see its not really used by Catholics.

 

[thecolorsblend]

I think I get what you are saying. Though I had been thinking of Roman Catholic as a proper title. But after doing a bit of reading I see its not really used by Catholics.

Somewhat. It's true of me. I am Roman Catholic.

Just saying that Roman Catholics aren't the only Catholics out there. The Eastern Catholics deserve recognition as well.