Catholicism
Brianne McDermott
Introduction
The catholic religion is led by the Pope (Francis), the Bishop of Rome. Most of the Catholic Religion is based on the seven sacraments. Catholics believe that baptism brings us into the Catholic Church and is the only way to be brought to salvation. Catholics also have a unique devotion to Saints, as the Christ still lives through them. They also believe in the Holy Trinity (God[father], Jesus[son], Holy Spirit).
Followers of Catholicism
There are roughly about 1.2 billion Roman Catholic followers. About 40% of them are located in Latin America. They comprise about half of the Christian population and 17% of the world population. Brazil has the highest concentration of Catholics of any other country.
How did it start and When did it Begin?
Jesus created the Catholic Church with his words read in Matthew 16. In 45 AD Peter went to Rome and lead the Catholic Church.
Main Beliefs
Catholics believe that Jesus is the Son of God, they believe in the Holy Trinity, Baptism, and the Seven Sacraments.
Seven Sacraments:
Baptism
Confirmation
Eucharist
Penance
Anointing of the Sick
Holy Orders
Matrimony
The Seven Sacraments
Advent Season
During Advent Season, Catholics prepare their minds and hearts to celebrate Christmas and Christ's second coming.
Lent
Lent is a 40-day period before Easter. Catholics "renew their faith" during this season. During Lent, Catholics fast, pray, and have different celebrations.
Easter
This is the day Catholics celebrate the resurrection of Jesus Christ. It is celebrated on the first Sunday after the first full moon following the Spring Equinox.
What separates Catholicism from Mainstream Christianity?
Catholicism is separated from Christianity mainly in their devotions to the Saints and Mary, and some of the beliefs. Saints are those who followed Jesus Christ and live their lives according to his teachings. Catholics believe that the Saints and Christians in heaven remain united as they are on earth. Another distinct difference is the celebration of the seven sacraments, and they do not believe in divorce.
Rituals
- Mass
- Receiving Communion
- Praying the Rosary
- Liturgy of the Eucharist
Citations
"Basic Beliefs of Catholicism." - For Dummies. N.p., n.d. Web. 29 Jan. 2016. <http://www.dummies.com/how-to/content/basic-beliefs-of-catholicism.html>.
"Catholicism 101: An Introduction to the Catholic Church." About.com Religion & Spirituality. N.p., n.d. Web. 29 Jan. 2016. <http://catholicism.about.com/od/beliefsteachings/tp/Catholicism_101.htm>.
"CatholicismHistory / Beliefs of Catholic Religion / The Catholic Church." Catholicism: History, Beliefs of Catholic Religion / Catholic Church. N.p., n.d. Web. 29 Jan. 2016. <http://www.spaceandmotion.com/religion-catholicism-catholic-church.htm>.