Nestorian Christians are members of a Christian sect that follows the teachings of Nestorius, a 5th-century patriarch of Constantinople. They emphasize the distinction between the divine and human natures of Jesus Christ, which led to their belief that Mary, the mother of Jesus, should be called "Christotokos" (Bearer of Christ) rather than "Theotokos" (Bearer of God). This theological stance contributed to their separation from mainstream Christianity. Historically, Nestorian Christians spread throughout the Middle East, Central Asia, and China, establishing a significant presence along the Silk Road. Their churches, known as the Church of the East, played a crucial role in the transmission of culture and knowledge between the East and West during the medieval period.