Understanding the Catholic Church: Teachings and Practices
Topic 1: Key Aspects of the Catholic Faith
Effects of Baptism
- Becomes a child of God
- Erases original sin
- Joins the Church, becoming a member of Christ
- Becomes a temple of the Holy Spirit
- Receives the three theological virtues: faith, hope, and charity
Commandments of the Church
- Participate in Mass every Sunday and holy days of obligation.
- Confess sins at least once a year.
The Church as Mother
The Church is called “Mother” because she gives birth to us as children of God through Baptism.
The Church as the People of God
The Church is the new People of God, universal in its meaning and mission.
Hierarchy of the Church
The Church has a hierarchical structure, with different roles and responsibilities:
- Pope
- Bishops
- Priests
- Deacons
Mysteries of the Rosary
The Rosary is divided into four sets of mysteries:
- Joyful
- Luminous
- Sorrowful
- Glorious
The Ten Commandments of God
- You shall love God above all things.
- You shall not take the name of God in vain.
- You shall keep holy the Sabbath.
- Honor your father and your mother.
- You shall not kill.
- You shall not commit impure acts.
- You shall not steal.
- You shall not bear false witness.
- You shall not covet your neighbor’s wife.
- You shall not covet your neighbor’s goods.
Theological Virtues
- Faith
- Hope
- Charity
Topic 2: Further Exploration of Catholic Teachings
Characteristics of Faith
Faith is a supernatural gift, a free and conscious human act of believing in God, who reveals Himself through His words and actions.
Additional Commandments of the Church
- Receive Holy Communion at least once a year.
- Contribute to the support of the Church.
- Observe the days of fasting and abstinence.
The Church as Teacher
The Church is called “Teacher” because she teaches the revealed truths of God.
The Body of Christ
The Body of Christ refers to the Eucharist, received through the sacrament of Holy Communion.
Lay Faithful and Permanent Deacons
Lay faithful are men and women who live their dedication to God in the world and spread the Gospel in everyday life.
Permanent deacons are ordained ministers who serve the community and administer sacraments, especially when a priest is not available.
Mysteries of the Rosary
The Rosary is divided into four sets of mysteries:
- Joyful
- Luminous
- Sorrowful
- Glorious
Cardinal Virtues and Temperance
The four Cardinal Virtues are:
- Prudence
- Justice
- Fortitude
- Temperance
Temperance encompasses virtues such as shame, honesty, abstinence, sobriety, chastity, virginity, continence, meekness, clemency, and modesty.