adjective
confessional
Relating to a religious denomination's declared beliefs.
The seminary's confessional standards guide what its professors teach.
Etymology
The Latin noun names an acknowledgment or profession. Confessional in this sense concerns the declared faith that distinguishes a religious body and shapes its identity.
More examples
- Applicants must agree with the church's confessional statement.
- The two congregations share a confessional tradition.
- Their confessional differences center on baptism and communion.
Forms
confessional
confession noun — A formal statement of a denomination's religious beliefs.
Similar words
- doctrinal
- Concerns teachings or beliefs, not necessarily a particular denomination.
- denominational
- Concerns a religious group's affiliation or organization, not specifically its beliefs.