Rites in the Catholic Church

Most people when they think of the Catholic Church they think of the Roman or Latin rite. This rite is the main rite of the Church it's not the only one. There twenty one different rites in the Church total. These rites formed as the Apostles and disciples of Christ spread the good news throughout the world. As they did so certain Church's decided to share the same sacraments and teachings while reflecting the heritage of their respective ethnicity and culture. They are in full communion with the Pope and the Roman Catholic Church. They are not separate entities.

Apostolicity of the Church

The Church is said to be Apostolic because of its nature from the twelve Apostles. The Church was established by Christ and he entrusted it to His Apostles. The Church has a constant line of descent from the Apostles to modern-day bishops. This is called Apostolic Succession. The Church still teaches what the Apostles taught.

Contraceptives

The Catholic Church has a very direct view on contraceptives. The Church believes that all contraceptives are bad and instead natural family planning should be used. This issue is a major topic of debate among those outside of the Church. Many people believe that contraceptives are good but the Church teaches that their should be ramifications for actions. The Church teaches that children are part of God's Divine plan and that contraceptives interrupt that plan.

Baptists on Mary and saints vs. Catholic view

Catholics do not pray to Mary and the saints. They send prayers to them so they can act on our behalf before God since they are in heaven with Him. Baptists do not believe in this practice and therefore do not designate saints. Also Catholics hold Mary in a special place as sinless and Queen of Heaven. Baptists do not have this special place for Mary.

Protestants and Catholics

Catholics and protestants view themselves as different but if we act as true Christians isn't it our purpose to unite for Christ? We as a people must learn to settle our differences and come under one Church. The true Church. Without this we fail in the mission given to us by Christ.

Pope Francis

So the new pope seems to be in the news a lot lately with his habits that show great humility and show new focus on the poor and social justice issues. This is exactly what the Church dealing with accusations of not caring about the poor and being called hypocrites needed. A pope who can show his determination to help the poor and settle issues of social justice. This is the face needed for the Church after the endless scandals. I just hope the new pope can keep it up as he continues his reign as sumpre pontiff

The Trinity

The Blessed Trinity is one of the most confusing teachings of the Church. It has caused debate since the time of Jesus. The teaching of the Blessed Trinity is that the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit are three distinct persons in one God. Many heresies in the early Church would confuse this teaching and would cause division in the Church. The Trinity though confusing is one of the major teachings of the Church. The idea of Jesus, the Son, being begotten of the Father and the Holy Spirit proceeding from them confuses many people because at first glance is seems as though there are three gods. But, in fact, it is one God in three Divine Persons.