Four Marks of the Church- Catholic (Universality)

The third Mark is the catholic (universal) nature of the Church. Since it is not limited to any one country, culture, or ethnic group, the Catholic Church remains unified through its diversity. Almost every language on Earth is used to celebrate Mass or to administer the Sacraments. Although the Church is centered administratively in Rome, it is certainly not an Italian religion. The election of Polish and German popes has proven that. The papal visits to parishes all over the world have also helped to remind people of the Church's universal nature. The fact that the Church also emphasizes Eastern and Western traditions is another example.

On every continent of the world (yes, including Antarctica), at least one priest is celebrating Mass, teaching Catholic doctrine, and honoring the Pope's authority. Catholicism has sought to spread the Gospel through missionary work throughout the Earth's history. Whether it was St. Peter in 1st Century Rome, Matteo Ricci in 16th century China, or Pope John Paul II visiting just about everywhere, the point is that the Church exists all over the globe and that makes it truly universal.

Watch the next televised Vatican Mass on Christmas or Easter and notice how many cultures and nations are represented by the various bishops and cardinals who work in the Vatican, along with the millions of pilgrims and visitors who make the trip each year.