Irish church
The Irish church was the Catholic church that had existed in Ireland since the introduction of Christianity to the island in the 5th century. It was headed by the Archbishop of Armagh and had its own set of customs, rituals, and traditions that were distinct from those of the English church.
English church
The English church was the Protestant church that was established in Ireland after the English Reformation in the 16th century. It was headed by the Archbishop of Dublin and followed the teachings of the Church of England.
Differences between the Irish and English churches
There were a number of key differences between the Irish and English churches in 16th century Ireland. These differences included:
- Doctrine: The Irish church held to the Catholic faith, while the English church held to the Protestant faith.
- Language: The Irish church used the Irish language in its services and rituals, while the English church used the English language.
- Customs and traditions: The Irish church had its own customs and traditions that were distinct from those of the English church.
These differences led to a great deal of tension and conflict between the Irish and English churches in 16th century Ireland. The English government attempted to suppress the Irish church and impose the English church on the Irish people, but the Irish people resisted these efforts. This conflict was a major factor in the Irish Rebellion of 1641.