What is catholicism

[darb85]

Hi Im not a catholic but i am interested in what exactly catholicism is. such as belief structures. Is there a difference from roman catholic and people that doent include roman in the name of the church??

My girl friend is catholic and its a huge part of her life. i want to know more about it so i can understand her life better. I go to a church that is non denominational.

THe only thing i ask is that i not be judged because i am not catholic.

Thanks for any help you can give me

Brad Waddell

 

[Psalm45_9]

“Catholic” means universal. We are all universal Christians under the guidance of the Pope. There are many rites in the Catholic faith. Roman Catholic is another way to say Latin Catholic. This is the largest rite, and the one that the majority of people think of when they here, “Catholic” The second largest rite is the Byzantine rite, which is predominant in Ukraine and other Eastern European countries. Then there are the various Catholic rites in the Middle East: the Copts of Egypt, the Maronites of Lebanon, The Armenians, the Melkites, and the Chaldeans of Iraq; just to name a few. All are Catholic because they ackowledge the supremecy of the Patriarch of Rome. The Eastern Rites are basically identical to the Eastern Orthodox; who do not believe in the supremecy of the Pope. The term Roman Catholic was coined up by the Anglicans who wanted to seperate themselves from the “false” Catholics, how ironic. So they call themselves Anglican Catholics, although they do not have valid apostolic succession.

 

[kmktexas]

First of all Welcome. I will presumptuously speak for everyone in saying we always welcome those who are sincerely seeking information.

Psalm45:9 gave a great explanation of the structure of the Church. For a good summary of the Catholic Church’s beliefs, the best I have ever read is a short booklet called Piller of Fire, Pillar of Truth. You can read it online at catholic.com That is the main web page of Catholic Answers - the sponsor of these forums.

Look down the left hand side for Booklets and click on Pillar of Fire. While you are there, you may want to read some of the other short pieces that may answer particular questions about the Church.

Happy seeking.