There are many different types of churches, usually determined by their denomination, their geographical location, and their age.

The denomination of a church can have a profound effect on the way it is physically constructed and used. Newer multi-denominational churches, for example, may have one or two rooms that face onto the main hall of worship; whilst traditional Catholic cathedrals will be much grander and far more complicated (set out in the shape of a cross, with special rooms and enclaves for particular purposes).  In a more practical sense, the denomination of an individual church can also effect the way the church is used for occasions other than the traditional weekly service.  Some newer churches (generally those within the Protestant or non-denominational Christian doctrines) may have been built as multi-use community centres with areas that are used for secular meetings (youth groups, for instance), charitable organizations, and small-scale worship (like Sunday school).