Catholicism

Where it came from

The Catholic Church traces itself directly to the apostolic era. The Great Schism of 1054 divided it from the Eastern churches; the Reformation of the 16th century separated it from the Protestant traditions. The Second Vatican Council (1962–65) was its largest modern renewal — Mass has been celebrated in local languages ever since.

What it holds

• Authority: Scripture and Sacred Tradition together, interpreted by the Church's teaching office
• Salvation: by grace, with faith and works held together
• Baptism: infants are baptised, usually by pouring
• Eucharist: the bread and wine truly become the body and blood of Christ
• Governance: Pope, then bishops, then priests — from the top down
• Seven sacraments: baptism, confirmation, Eucharist, reconciliation, anointing, holy orders, marriage

What a service is like

Called the Mass. It follows a set order and the church calendar: the congregation stands, kneels and responds at fixed points. Most parishes hold several Masses on Sunday and some on weekdays. Expect a crucifix, statues, stained glass and holy water at the door. If it is your first visit, simply follow those around you; if you are not receiving communion, stay in your seat.

How it relates to others

Very close to Orthodoxy in sacraments and bishops; the main difference is the authority of the Pope. Differences with Protestants centre on the source of authority and how salvation is understood. Relations with most Protestant bodies have improved greatly in recent decades.

Common questions