What term denotes a religious group that is less formally organized than a church?

What term denotes a religious group that is less formally organized than a church?

• A. Cults
• B. Denomination
• C. Sect
• D. Ecclesia

Answer: (C)

In studying how religious groups are arranged, a church is a formal, organized body with a clear hierarchy and wide membership. A denomination is a structured, recognized branch within a religion. An ecclesia refers to a universal or state church that claims broad membership. A cult usually describes a newer, often unorthodox movement centered on a charismatic leader and can have less formalized structures. A sect, by contrast, is a group that splits from a larger religious tradition and operates with a looser, less formal organization while holding distinct beliefs and practices. Because the question describes a group that is less formally organized than a church, the term that fits best is sect.

In studying how religious groups are arranged, a church is a formal, organized body with a clear hierarchy and wide membership. A denomination is a structured, recognized branch within a religion. An ecclesia refers to a universal or state church that claims broad membership. A cult usually describes a newer, often unorthodox movement centered on a charismatic leader and can have less formalized structures. A sect, by contrast, is a group that splits from a larger religious tradition and operates with a looser, less formal organization while holding distinct beliefs and practices. Because the question describes a group that is less formally organized than a church, the term that fits best is sect.