RELIGIOUS EDUCATION NOTES

Catholicism
Beliefs
Trinitarianism (Creed)

The belief that there is one God who exists in three persons: the Father, the Son (Jesus Christ), and the Holy Spirit. The Father is seen as the creator, the Son as the redeemer who became human to save us, and the Holy Spirit as the guide who helps believers. Understanding this doctrine is essential for salvation in Catholicism, and it plays a big role in worship practices where prayers often mention all three persons of the Trinity.
The Trinity is described as uncreated (increatus), limitless (Immensus), eternal (aeternus), and omnipotent (omnipotens)
The Nicene Creed:
I believe in the Holy Spirit, the Lord, the giver of life, who proceeds from the Father and the Son who with the Father and the Son is adored and glorified, who has spoken through the prophets. I believe in one, holy, catholic, and apostolic Church.

Catholicism
Beliefs
Jesus

Jesus in Catholicism is believed to be both fully divine and fully human, known as the Second Person of the Holy Trinity. Catholics believe that he was born of the Virgin Mary through the Holy Spirit, marking his incarnation as God made flesh. His purpose was to save humanity from sin through his sacrificial death on the cross, which is central to the faith. The resurrection of Jesus is celebrated during Easter and signifies his victory over sin and death, promising eternal life for believers. In Catholic practice, Jesus is present in the Eucharist, where bread and wine become his Body and Blood. Overall, Catholics are called to follow Jesus' teachings by living a life of love, service, and adherence to Church teachings.

Catholicism
Beliefs
What happens when we die?

Although physical human bodies die, human souls never die. The Catechism of the Catholic Church teaches that every spiritual soul "is immortal: It does not perish when it separates from the body at death, and it will be reunited with the body at the final Resurrection"
All souls will be rejoined with their bodies, and those in Purgatory will be joined to the blessed in heaven. The Last Judgement will reveal that God's justice triumphs over all the injustices committed by his creatures and that God's love is stronger than death.

Catholicism
Beliefs
Heaven Purgatory Hell

Heaven, Purgatory, and Hell in Catholicism Beliefs In Catholicism, heaven is seen as the ultimate goal for souls who die in a state of grace, where they experience eternal happiness and closeness to God. Purgatory is a temporary place for those who have sinned but are still loved by God; it's where souls are purified before entering heaven. On the other hand, hell is a state of eternal separation from God for those who choose to reject Him and die in serious sin without repentance.

Catholicism
Rituals
Funeral Rites

The Vigil, The Liturgy, and The Committal. Each rite serves a distinct purpose to assist you on the path to healing. Each rite can be personalized to a degree to impart a deeper meaning relevant to the life of the deceased and to those who mourn.

Catholicism
Rituals
Eucharist

The term "Eucharist" originates from the Greek word eucharistia, meaning thanksgiving. In the celebration of the Eucharist, bread and wine become the Body and Blood of Jesus Christ through the power of the Holy Spirit and the instrumentality of the priest.

Catholicism
Rituals
Baptism

Baptism is the sacrament of regeneration and initiation into the church that was begun by Jesus, who accepted baptism from St. John the Baptist and also ordered the Apostles to baptize in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit

Catholicism
Rituals
Holy Orders

Holy Orders is the sacrament by which bishops, priests and deacons are ordained and receive the power and grace to perform their sacred duties. The sacred rite by which orders are conferred is called ordination. The apostles were ordained by Jesus at the Last Supper so that others could share in his priesthood.

Catholicism
Maternal Expression
Church Architecture

Catholic immigrant congregations used all the classical architectural styles of Europe—Byzantine, Romanesque, Roman basilica, French Gothic, English Gothic, and Renaissance. Some Catholic churches even used American Colonial and Congregational styles—including St.

Catholicism
Maternal Expression
Art

Catholic art is a way for the Church to express its beliefs and values through various forms of art, like painting, sculpture, and music. It started in early Christianity when believers needed symbols to represent their faith during tough times. Over the years, different styles emerged, such as Romanesque, Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque art, each reflecting changes in theology and culture. The Church teaches that these images are not just decorations but help educate people about God and inspire devotion. Today, Catholic art remains important in churches and personal worship, with modern artists continuing to explore traditional themes while addressing contemporary issues.

Catholicism
Maternal Expression
Artefacts
Crucifix

The crucifix is an important symbol in Catholicism that shows Jesus on the cross, reminding believers of His sacrifice for humanity's sins, his suffering and his love. It plays a significant role during Mass, where it helps worshippers connect with the idea of Jesus' sacrifice being present in the Eucharist. Many Catholics also use the crucifix for prayer and reflection, thinking about their relationship with God and what it means to love others.

Catholicism
Maternal Expression
Artefacts
Holy Water

It is water that has been blessed by a priest and is used to reminding people of their baptism and providing protection against evil. Catholics often dip their fingers in holy water when entering or leaving a church, making the Sign of the Cross as a way to invoke God's blessing. It symbolizes God's grace and serves as a reminder of faith, helping believers stay connected to their spiritual commitments.

Catholicism
Maternal Expression
Artefacts
Eucharist

Central sacrament where Catholics believe that bread and wine become the actual Body and Blood of Jesus Christ through a process called transubstantiation. This belief is based on scripture, especially from the Last Supper when Jesus instructed His disciples to remember Him by sharing this meal. The Eucharist is not just a symbol; it represents spiritual nourishment for believers, helping them grow closer to God and each other. Overall, the Eucharist is seen as essential for living out the Catholic faith and maintaining a relationship with God.