Catholic
The Roman Catholic Church is the world's largest Christian denomination, with over 1.3 billion members globally. It traces its authority through apostolic succession from the Apostle Peter and holds that the Pope is the visible head of the Church on earth. Catholic worship centers on the seven sacraments — especially the Eucharist — alongside veneration of Mary, the saints, and the intertwined authority of Scripture and Sacred Tradition.
Doctrine
What We Believe
Salvation
Grace through faith and sacraments; ongoing cooperation with God's grace
Scripture
Scripture and Sacred Tradition, interpreted by the Magisterium
Baptism
Infant baptism removes original sin; initiates into the Church
Communion
Transubstantiation — bread and wine truly become Christ's body and blood
Worship Style
Liturgical Mass; formal, structured, sacramental
Church Government
Hierarchical; Pope, bishops, priests in apostolic succession
Women in Leadership
Ordained priesthood reserved for men; women serve in many lay and religious roles
LGBTQ+ Stance
Traditional; marriage defined as between a man and woman
17,844 Catholic churches
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Directory
Featured Catholic Churches
The Cathedral Basilica of St. John the Baptist
San Fernando Cathedral
St. Louis Cathedral
National Shrine of Our Lady of Charity
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