The church classification describes religions that are all-embracing of religious expression in a society. Religions of this type are the guardians of religion for all members of the societies in which they are located and tolerate no religious competition. They also strive to provide an all-encompassing worldview for their adherents and are typically enmeshed with the political and economic structures of society.
Johnstone provides the following seven characteristics of churches:[2]
Claim universality, include all members of the society within their ranks, and have a strong tendency to equate "citizenship" with "membership"
Exercise religious monopoly and try to eliminate religious competition
Are very closely allied with the state and secular powers; frequently there is overlapping of responsibilities and much mutual reinforcement
Are extensively organized as a hierarchical bureaucratic institution with a complex division of labor
Employ professional, full-time clergy who possess the appropriate credentials of education and formal ordination
Primarily gain new members through natural reproduction and the socialization of children into the ranks
Allow for diversity by creating different groups within the church (e.g., orders of nuns or monks) rather than through the formation of new religions