Presbyterian vs. Roman Catholic: What’s the Difference?

Historical Background

Origins

• Presbyterianism: Emerged from the Protestant Reformation in the 16th century, influenced by John Calvin’s teachings.
• Roman Catholicism: Traces its history back to the early Christian church, with the Pope as the successor of Saint Peter.

Key Figures

• Presbyterianism: John Calvin, John Knox
• Roman Catholicism: Jesus Christ, Saint Peter, numerous Popes throughout history

Theology and Beliefs

Authority

• Presbyterianism: Sola Scriptura (Scripture alone), the Bible is the ultimate authority
• Roman Catholicism: Scripture and Sacred Tradition, with the Magisterium (teaching authority of the Church) interpreting them

Salvation

• Presbyterianism: Salvation by faith alone (Sola Fide) through God’s grace
• Roman Catholicism: Salvation through faith and good works, with the help of God’s grace

Sacraments

• Presbyterianism: Recognizes two sacraments: Baptism and the Lord’s Supper (Communion)
• Roman Catholicism: Recognizes seven sacraments: Baptism, Confirmation, Eucharist, Penance, Anointing of the Sick, Holy Orders, and Matrimony

Clergy

• Presbyterianism: Ordained ministers, elders, and deacons; no hierarchical structure
• Roman Catholicism: Hierarchical structure with the Pope, bishops, priests, and deacons; clergy take vows of celibacy (with some exceptions)

Worship and Practices

Liturgy

• Presbyterianism: Emphasis on preaching, prayer, and singing hymns; less formal and ritualistic than Roman Catholicism
• Roman Catholicism: Structured liturgy, including the Mass, which follows a set order of prayers, readings, and rituals

Sacraments

• Presbyterianism: Baptism by sprinkling or pouring; Communion is seen as a symbolic remembrance of Christ’s sacrifice
• Roman Catholicism: Baptism by immersion, pouring, or sprinkling; belief in transubstantiation (bread and wine become the body and blood of Christ) during the Eucharist

Veneration of Saints and Mary

• Presbyterianism: Does not practice veneration of saints or Mary
• Roman Catholicism: Venerates saints and Mary, believing in their intercession and the power of prayer to them

Church Government and Structure

Hierarchy

• Presbyterianism: Presbyterian system of government, with elected elders and ministers governing the church
• Roman Catholicism: Hierarchical structure led by the Pope, with bishops, priests, and deacons

Authority

• Presbyterianism: Local churches are governed by elected elders (presbyters) and are part of regional presbyteries and national general assemblies
• Roman Catholicism: The Pope, as the successor of Saint Peter, holds supreme authority over the worldwide Catholic Church

Comparison Table