Cult, Movement, Schism, Sect Cult a religious group characterized by relatively small size, hidden or little-known teachings, powerful leadership, comprehensive cosmic vision, and existing in a state of tension with the host society. Movement a form of religious affiliation not symmetric with institutional forms such as denominations, churches, religions.
Movements frequently are trans-denominational, involving participants from different churches.
Movements often focus upon a limited rather than full religious experience and tend to emphasize a special teaching, doctrine, explantation, or experience. Temporal persistence of a movement and appropriate socialization can transform a movement into a church. Schisms are often based upon minute points of doctrine or practise. Schisms are often viewed by the host group as heretical. Sect a doctrinally or liturgically distinct branch of a denomination.