Protestants
Protestants emerged during the Reformation, and in general place a higher value on the importance of scripture over tradition. Depending on the specific denomination, there may also be a stronger emphasis on individual experience.
Anglicans (sometimes called Episcopal) began in the Church of England, and then spread to form churches internationally who adopt similar beliefs and practices to form the Anglican Communion. Anglicans are famously “middle of the road” which comes from Queen Elizabeth I’s edict, in the early days of Anglicanism, that it should be a middle way between the perceived extremes of Roman Catholicism and other forms of Protestantism. Anglicans place a high emphasis on personal engagement with scripture, which traditionally comes via daily services set out in the Book of Common Prayer and Lectionary.
Baptists believe in believers baptisms – that only the with the ability to freely choose baptism for themselves (therefore, not infants) can be baptised. In the UK Baptists can be traced back to the Puritans movement, and often have a high level of autonomy given to each Church and its Elders.
Lutheran Christians follow the tradition of German Martin Luther, and often emphasise salvation by grace alone, confession, and involvement in educational institutions.
Methodists follow the tradition of John Wesley, who sought a more dynamic faith than was expressed in the Anglicanism of his time, with a renewed focus on spiritual disciplines and evangelism. Methodist churches are normally teetotal to reflect their proud tradition of combating alcoholism.
Pentecostals are those who in the early 20th century experienced an outpouring of the Holy Spirit, famously including Azusa Street in New York, and from this formed new communities. These communities often included ethnic minorities, and since its spread Pentecostalism has become popular in African and Eastern countries. Pentecostals place a high emphasis on the Holy Spirit and their gifts (especially tongues), and encourage a second baptism “in the spirit” similar to what was experienced in Acts 2.
Quakers are a contemplative tradition who are best known for holding silent “meetings for worship” where participants may speak out what they believe the divine is saying. Quakers are normally pacifist. While founded by Christians, this tradition often appeals to those of different faiths or none.
Reformed (Calvinist) Christians trace their history back to Genevan John Calvin, and often emphasise predestination, simplicity in worship, and the spiritual presence (rather than “real presence”) of Jesus at the Eucharist.
Non-denominational or Independent churches are part of the Protestant tradition without being aligned to a specific denomination. They may still be part of a “network” of other churches, often with shared beliefs and sharing of resources.
Through all Protestantism’s various forms, Christians seek to show something of God’s love for diversity within the Church.
Further resources
The Church Times – focus on Anglicanism as well as wider news
Premier Christian News – focus on Protestantism as well as wider news
Anglican
Church of England
Scottish Episcopal Church
Church of Ireland
Anglican Compass
Baptist
Baptist Union of Great Britain
Baptist Union of Scotland
Association of Baptist Churches in Ireland
Baptist News
Lutheran
UK Lutheran Church
Lutheran Church in Ireland (ROI & NI)
Lutheran World Federation
Methodist
Methodist Church of Great Britain
Methodist Church in Scotland
Methodist Church in Ireland
United Methodist News
Pentecostal
There are a large variety of UK Pentecostal churches, including the Vineyard Movement
Quakers
Quakers in Britain
Quakers in Scotland
Quakers in Ireland (ROI & NI)
Quaker News
Reformed
UK United Reformed Church
Church of Scotland
Evangelical Times