Catholic
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The Catholic Church, also known as the Roman Catholic Church, is the largest Christian denomination, with approximately 1.39 billion baptized members worldwide as of 2023. Founded by Jesus Christ in the 1st century, the Church considers itself the continuation of the apostolic succession established by Christ through Saint Peter, the first Pope. The Catholic Church teaches that it is the one, holy, catholic, and apostolic Church, guided by the Holy Spirit to preserve and proclaim the teachings of Christ as revealed through Sacred Scripture and Sacred Tradition.
| Catholic Church | |
|---|---|
 Saint Peter's Basilica in Vatican City, the central symbol of the Catholic Church | |
| Type | Christianity |
| Pope | Pope Francis |
| Headquarters | Vatican City |
| Founder | Jesus Christ |
| Origin | 1st century Jerusalem, Judea |
| Members | 1.39 billion (2023 estimate) |
| Official website | Vatican.va |
History
The Catholic Church traces its origins to the life, death, and Resurrection of Jesus Christ in the 1st century. According to Catholic belief, Christ established the Church by appointing Saint Peter as the leader of the Twelve Apostles, entrusting him with the Keys of the Kingdom (Matthew 16:18–19). The early Church grew through the missionary work of the Apostles, particularly Saint Paul, and faced persecution under the Roman Empire until the Edict of Milan in 313 AD, issued by Emperor Constantine the Great, legalized Christianity.
The Church developed its structure and doctrine through Ecumenical Councils, such as the Council of Nicaea (325 AD), which defined key beliefs like the Nicene Creed. The Great Schism of 1054 separated the Catholic Church from the Eastern Orthodox Church, and the Protestant Reformation in the 16th century led to further divisions. The Counter-Reformation, initiated by the Council of Trent (1545–1563), revitalized the Church, addressing internal reforms and clarifying doctrines. In the modern era, the Second Vatican Council (1962–1965) modernized liturgical practices and emphasized ecumenism and engagement with the contemporary world.
Beliefs
The Catholic Church holds that its teachings are rooted in Divine Revelation, comprising Sacred Scripture (the Bible) and Sacred Tradition, interpreted by the Magisterium, the Church’s teaching authority. Core beliefs include:
- Trinity: God exists as three persons—God the Father, Jesus Christ (the Son), and the Holy Spirit—in one divine essence.
- Incarnation: Jesus Christ is fully God and fully human, born of the Virgin Mary.
- Salvation: Humanity is saved through Christ’s Passion, Death, and Resurrection, with salvation attainable through faith, grace, and participation in the Sacraments.
- Church: The Catholic Church is the mystical body of Christ, instituted to guide souls to salvation.
The Nicene Creed summarizes the Church’s core beliefs. Catholics also venerate Mary, Mother of God, and honor saints as intercessors.
Sacraments
The Catholic Church administers seven Sacraments, considered outward signs of inward grace instituted by Christ:
- Baptism: Incorporates individuals into the Church and removes original sin.
- Confirmation: Strengthens the baptized with the Holy Spirit.
- Eucharist: The real presence of Christ’s Body and Blood under the appearances of bread and wine.
- Penance: Reconciliation with God through forgiveness of sins.
- Anointing of the Sick: Offers spiritual and physical healing to the ill.
- Holy Orders: Ordains men as deacons, priests, or bishops.
- Matrimony: Unites a man and woman in a lifelong covenant.
The Eucharist, celebrated during Mass, is the "source and summit" of Catholic life.
Practices
Catholic worship centers on the Mass, a liturgical celebration of the Eucharist. Other practices include:
- Prayer: Includes the Rosary, Liturgy of the Hours, and personal devotions.
- Fasting and Abstinence: Observed during Lent and other penitential seasons.
- Pilgrimages: Visits to sacred sites like Lourdes or Fatima.
- Charity: Acts of mercy and service, rooted in Christ’s command to love one’s neighbor.
The Church follows a liturgical calendar, celebrating seasons like Advent, Christmas, Lent, and Easter.
Structure
The Catholic Church is hierarchical, led by the Pope, who is considered the successor of Saint Peter and holds supreme authority in matters of faith and morals. The College of Cardinals advises the Pope and elects his successor. The Church is organized into dioceses, each overseen by a bishop, who delegates pastoral duties to priests. The laity, religious orders, and clergy collaborate to fulfill the Church’s mission.
The Vatican City, an independent city-state, serves as the administrative and spiritual center of the Church. The Roman Curia, the Church’s governing body, assists the Pope in managing global Church affairs.
Social teaching
Catholic social teaching emphasizes the dignity of the human person, the common good, and solidarity. Key principles include:
- Dignity of the Human Person: All life is sacred from conception to natural death.
- Subsidiarity: Decisions should be made at the most local level possible.
- Solidarity: A commitment to the well-being of all, especially the poor and marginalized.
These teachings guide Catholic engagement with issues like poverty, war, and environmental stewardship.
Global presence
The Catholic Church operates in nearly every country, with significant populations in Europe, Latin America, Africa, and Asia. It runs schools, hospitals, and charitable organizations, such as Caritas Internationalis, to serve communities worldwide.