Ecclesiastical latin

1. What is the difference between classical Latin and ecclesiastical Latin?
2. Why is ecclesiastical Latin different?
3. Should I learn classical or ecclesiastical Latin?
4. Who was called the father of ecclesiastical Latin?

What is the difference between classical Latin and ecclesiastical Latin?

Classical is around the time of Cicero (roughly 2000 years ago). It is what is generally taught in universities as simply 'Latin'. Ecclesiastical is what the church has been using since, I suppose, the Catholic church was set up.

Why is ecclesiastical Latin different?

It is less stylized and rigid in form than Classical Latin, sharing vocabulary, forms, and syntax, while at the same time incorporating informal elements which had always been with the language but which were excluded by the literary authors of classical Latin.

Should I learn classical or ecclesiastical Latin?

Ecclesiastical pronunciation is a more beautiful, more euphonious pronunciation. It is also easier to learn and is closer to English. Because it is closer to English it makes learning English words which are derivatives of Latin (important for the SAT and reading and writing in general) easier.

Who was called the father of ecclesiastical Latin?

Augustine of Hippo

Augustine (354–430), Bishop of Hippo, was a philosopher and theologian. Augustine, a Latin Father and Doctor of the Church, is one of the most important figures in the development of Western Christianity.