Which of the following best describes a denomination?

• A. A local church where members worship and have social events together.
• B. An exclusive group led by a charismatic leader.
• C. An unrecognized, extremist branch of a church that isolates its members.
• D. A recognized branch of a larger religion that has a set of distinct values and practices.

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the concept of a denomination in sociology of religion. A denomination is a recognized branch within a larger religion that maintains its own distinct values, beliefs, and practices but is generally accepted within the broader religious community.
2. Step 2: Compare the given options to the definition of a denomination. Identify which description aligns with being a recognized and established subgroup rather than a local congregation, exclusive group, or extremist sect.
3. Step 3: Eliminate options that describe a local church (which is a smaller community unit), an exclusive group led by a charismatic leader (which may be a sect), and an unrecognized extremist branch (which is often called a cult or sect).
4. Step 4: Confirm that the correct description is the one that refers to a recognized branch of a larger religion with distinct values and practices, as this matches the sociological definition of a denomination.
5. Step 5: Summarize that a denomination is a formal, organized subgroup within a religion that is widely accepted and has its own identity, distinguishing it from local churches, sects, or cults.